Laura
In addition to using customizable currencies like Twitch Channel Points and selling their own merchandise, Twitch streamers are always exploring new and improved ways to grow their communities. For gamers who use the platform to showcase their escapades, keeping things interesting can be tough.
A highly competitive area of the Twitch community, gamers everywhere are joining the live-streaming platform owned by Amazon on a daily basis. Whether you’re keen to showcase your co-op gaming experiences in Portal 2 to your community or you’re partial to more solitary gaming offerings like online casino blackjack and sports-themed products like Hockey Blackjack, there is a potentially massive audience to entertain. However, you need to provide something worthwhile to watch.
With gamers everywhere struggling to come up with new ideas, below is a brief look at the type of content that generally does well on Twitch, plus a few more unique options.
Community events are important
These days, consumers and viewers alike enjoy being rewarded. Be it through apps or in games, people love a freebie or an unbeatable offer. When you’re streaming on Twitch, offering these types of incentives can keep your audience fully engaged and even more on board with your content. Through community events, you can host giveaways, offer prizes, or even sell your merchandise.
Set challenges
Alongside offering unmissable community events, many Twitch streamers in the gaming category set themselves various challenges to keep things exciting. While the same old gameplay can become overdone and tiresome, adding a series of unique challenges can bring another layer of intrigue to proceedings. For example, you could have self-imposed restrictions like only being able to use one weapon or score with a certain player. Likewise, you might add some cooking-based challenges or even devour flaming hot snacks should you lose in an online battle. Ultimately, don’t be afraid to get creative here.
Focus on the games you’re good at
While it’s tempting to branch out a bit and explore a game that is new to you, it might not be worth doing so when you’re live. However, once you’ve become adept at a specific release, then it might be the right time to showcase your virtual efforts to your viewers. In the meantime, only focus on the games you’re good at, especially as many Twitch viewers might see your content as a way to evolve their own gaming style. Likewise, some viewers look for tips and tricks, while others simply enjoy watching someone who’s skilled a particular release.
Always interact with your community
(Image via https://x.com/Twitch)
Where many Twitch streamers go wrong is by failing to interact with their loyal viewers. As a result, they’ll simply go elsewhere and watch live streams where they’re more heavily involved. As such, it’s hugely important to include your viewers where possible, particularly when it comes to the games you play. For instance, in Minecraft, you can ask for feedback and hold votes on which direction you should go next. Likewise, in iconic titles like The Sims, your audience can help you make key decisions that could lead to some comical moments. The options are vast.
Shop with your viewers
If you’re regularly getting hammered for having some outdated gear or some poor gaming-related hoodies, then another thing you can do is take your viewers on a shopping trip. Not only can they help you find the best products, but you could even buy a few gifts for your community along the way.
Other things gamers like on Twitch include tours of your gaming studio, Q&A sessions, streaming with special guests, gaming-related debates, and supporting live fundraisers.