If you’re fond of playing video games, the concept of video game live streaming isn’t new to you. Like the way you enjoy playing games, some people love watching them. In fact, its popularity has grown exponentially, giving gamers a new way of making money online.
When you stream games, you can entertain people and turn it into a legit career to make a living off game streaming. However, it isn’t all that easy to make a living from game streaming, mainly because there is a lot of competition. Some full-time video game streamers already have a head start, which makes it challenging for you to build momentum.
However, that shouldn’t discourage you because if you’re serious about it, you can make it happen. But where do you start?
This is where game streaming platforms come to your rescue. What is it exactly? Let’s discuss it briefly.
What are Game Streaming Platforms?
A game streaming platform is necessarily a portal where you can broadcast your gaming content online. As a streamer, you’ll have to register at one of the popular platforms and play a game that you and your audience like, which could be solo or with other streamers. People visiting these platforms do so to watch game streams of their favourite video games or gamers.
If the streaming platform is popular, it will have a lot of exciting features that leave room for making interesting content. Some of these platforms also host tournaments where streamers can participate and compete.
A streaming service platform would be an excellent place for a gamer to build your foundation as a streamer, grow your audience base, and branch out later. If you put up good quality content, you can expect people to watch your streams. Compared to YouTube gaming, you can start your channel on the website in a more personal way.
If you want to monetize your gaming skills, becoming a streamer would be the right opportunity for you. However, it can be tricky to choose a streaming service; after all, there are many of them out there. So, how do you make a choice? Let’s find out!
How to Choose the Right Game Streaming Platform?
Picking out a streaming platform would be among the first big choices you need to make to pursue your streaming career. For some people, the answer may seem obvious. However, others may find it difficult to take a pick that would insinuate a perfect match.
Before choosing a streaming platform, you need to do some thorough research. You need to look into a couple of things before making up your mind. Typically, you need to ask yourself these vital questions –
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What games do you wish to play?
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What are you looking for in your mainstream audience?
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Are you in search of a niche audience?
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Do you plan on combining streaming with other kinds of content?
These are a few things you may want to consider. The answers to these questions are important because the choice of your platform will change based on your needs. Popular websites would be great if you’re looking for a mainstream audience. However, it can also be difficult for you to achieve.
Some people would prefer to specialize in exclusive games, and when you play unusual games, your audience will be smaller. In that case, you will have to stick with platforms where you can find that audience.
Some people would prefer combining streaming with other kinds of content, including videos. In that case, YouTube or Facebook may seem like the appropriate platform.
There are generally three essential factors that you must keep in mind when choosing a streaming platform. They are –
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Comfortable Functionality – You need a platform where you find it comfortable to stream. You may feel like the outside if you’re entirely new to this. Because of this reason, it is best to try out different websites you like for free to get the hang of the user interface and other features. It will help you make an informed decision.
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Hardware Compatibility – You will not have all the high-end gears for streaming, so it’s essential to find out which platform allows you to stream with the existing equipment you own. If you’re planning to stream using your phone, verify whether the platforms offer that feature.
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Customer Support – You need reliable customer support if you’re planning to make a living through a specific platform. If something goes wrong, you need answers. And only a platform with 24/7 customer assistance can offer you help in a time of crisis.
Closing Thoughts
When you look through different game streaming platforms, you’ll notice that they all have unique pros and cons. The correct answer won’t be a straightforward one – you will be confused initially. The safe bet would be the one that fits your needs the best.
Running a successful game streaming channel requires dedication. It’s not all about the games you play, but rather the way you choose to stream and the personality you put up online.
While some platforms have immense popularity and a large audience base, you must remember that they also have a lot of competition. Hence, choose a platform that offers more room for your channel to grow. If you feel that a smaller streaming service platform has the potential to become big, you must choose that site because that’ll give you the head start your channel needs in this competitive market.