Streaming and running a game server work well together. A stream shows people what your server is like, and your server gives your stream a community to build around. Whether you are just starting or want to sharpen up an existing channel, these tips will help. They are general advice rather than rules, and every successful streamer finds their own way.
Engage your audience
Nothing puts viewers off faster than a streamer who ignores their chat. You are effectively performing, and the people watching came to be entertained and to be part of it.
- Read your chat and answer questions, including the hard ones.
- Ask your viewers questions too.
- Run giveaways where you can. Some game companies will provide keys or gifts for streamers who feature their products, if you contact them.
Plan your streams
Decide roughly how long you will stream and what you will do in that time. A loose plan keeps you to a schedule and helps you keep viewers interested.
- Set times for giveaways, announcements and other highlights.
- If chat is busy, schedule a regular question-and-answer slot.
- Avoid going in with no plan at all. Streams without structure tend to overrun, drag, or miss what you meant to cover.
Monetise sensibly
Once you have an audience, sponsors and affiliate links can help cover your costs. Partnering with products you would use anyway keeps it honest.
- Start with just a few things you genuinely like.
- Do not overdo it. If every stream is an advert, viewers will assume you are only in it for the money.
- Be open about sponsorships and affiliate links. Many countries and platforms require you to disclose them, and your audience will respect you for it.
- Talk about products in your own words and your own style.
Pick a persona and stay consistent
Think about the most successful streamers you watch: they are nearly always recognisably the same from stream to stream. Consistency of tone, personality and style is what turns a viewer into a regular. People who liked how you came across in one stream want the same again next time.
Play more than one game
Most viewers play several games, and there are more good ones than anyone can keep up with. Many streamers have set days for different games. It gives regular viewers a reason to come back on particular days, and gives new viewers more ways to find you.
Avoid divisive topics and coarse language
People join a gaming stream to watch and chat about the game. However much you care about a divisive issue, bringing it into your stream tends to alienate part of your audience for reasons that have nothing to do with gaming. Keeping the language clean also keeps your stream open to the widest audience, and to sponsors.
Show that you enjoy it
Viewers pick up on your mood quickly. If you look bored or irritated, they will find someone who is having fun. Most of your audience plays the game or wants to, so try not to be overly critical of it even when it frustrates you. You are the show, not just the game.
Tie it back to your server
If you run your own server, streaming on it is a strong way to advertise it: viewers can join in, and it gives your community a showpiece. See How to Promote Your Game Server for other ways to bring players in.
Community & Growth
Community & Growth
Community & Growth