How to be a better Twitch streamer

While it may seem like streaming on Twitch.tv is all about gaming, the reality is that it’s the personalities behind the games that people actually come to see. In fact, you can be a more successful streamer if you take more time to practice your little talk, rehearse a few jokes, or rehearse some tips to give the audience while you play. With this in mind, we take a look at some important tips to help you become a better streamer and, if you’re really good, the next big video game personality.

Interact with the audience

Probably the biggest mistake streamers make is not including their audience in the presentation. Imagine that you are giving a presentation on stage in front of a live audience. The first and most important factor in this is the inclusion of a webcam in your stream. Nothing has a bigger impact on audience engagement than allowing people who watch your game to see how and how you are reacting.

Respond to user questions and comments.

You don’t have to answer everyone, but if a certain question or comment catches your eye or is popular with the crowd, take a second to address it. It will help foster more conversation and let them know that you are listening and that you are not fully focused on the game.

Entertain

When you’re broadcasting, it’s a one-man show with the focus on you. Keeping your entire audience entertained and happy is next to impossible, as everyone wants to see different things, but there are some basic paths you can take that most people enjoy.

Teacher. Pass your gaming knowledge on to the masses. Strive to be the best in the game, or even the champion / career / player you usually broadcast about. Word of his prowess will spread soon, attracting those who want to learn en masse. Keeping up with the latest patches and updates will also ensure that you always have something to talk about.

The joker / entertainer. You’re the life of the off-screen party, so why not bring this talent to the monitor? Pop culture, current events, you can talk about all of that. If you are not gifted with the power of witty jokes, preparation and research is your friend. Jot down some quick notes on topics you might talk about if there is a noticeable pause. Or you could just be the guy who tells bad jokes all the time and make that your thing. The point is to have a second act that complements your game and makes it a more complete and unique experience.

Pro. If you really like games and believe yourself better, but don’t feel like sharing knowledge (at least vocally), you are a professional. Even though you won’t be talking as much due to being almost completely focused on the game, don’t leave the webcam. A picture is worth a thousand words, so let the audience enjoy the little smile you give it as you force the enemy team to GG.

Broadcast frequently and on a schedule

To get that initial interest in you, you’ll want to broadcast fairly frequently, at least several times a week. TO increase this exposure, you want to make sure people know when you are online. Twitter and Facebook are great ways to get the word out shortly beforehand, but a longer-term plan will allow people to plan ahead to make time for their favorite streamer.

The best way to think of your broadcast schedule is like a television show. Choose the days and time you want to run each week and stick to it. Also try to keep the length roughly the same. People should want you to keep streaming when you leave and not slow down out of boredom. Make them want more at the end of each session and they are sure to tune in next time!

These are some simple methods that anyone can use to improve the quality of their broadcast. Combine these tips with some decent gaming skill and you’ll be on your way to the front page in no time!