Have you ever thought about what live streaming is?
If yes, what’s more to say about it?
Do you want to make money from game streaming and share your gameplay with the world?
Whatever you have in mind, you will need a proper game streaming set to complete the task.
Why?
Because the right video and audio quality in streaming can be a great source to improve the quality, it can engage more and more audiences.
So if you are still trying to figure out where to begin, don’t worry; I am here to guide you all about live streaming equipment for game streaming.
Live Streaming equipment for gaming
Live streaming equipment consists of many essential accessories and needs to be set up with dedication to get excellent video and audio quality. Here is a list of the best supplements for the best experience.
Gaming PC
If you are passionate about promoting your game experience, the gaming PC is the foremost specification you should consider. You will need a powerful computer with a compatible motherboard to avoid any motherboard problems, a gaming processor, a fast graphics card, and plenty of RAM.
The ideal option is to do all the tasks on a desktop compared to a laptop because it is easier to customize and upgrade the components. If you want to stick with a computer, go for a high-end processor and a good graphics card. These two parts are customizable, so you should have the best one to select. But with some SSD and RAM storage, some models of gaming laptops enable you to modify them to high capacities if you want to.
The best PC models are:
- Intel core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor
- 500W OR the high power supply
- 1080p resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate monitor
High-quality Microphone
To improve the video’s audio quality, having a good microphone improves gaming communication and is as important as any other accessory for game streaming. More than that will be needed to create good audio for your stream if your webcam has a microphone. Only high-grade microphones can take your show to the next level.
Therefore, a high-quality microphone plays a great role in the overall quality of your stream. It makes for a good experience and indicates that you love to stream games with a passion.
The best microphones in the competitive market are:
- Elgato wave
- Blue Yeti Nano
- Msi, I immerse GV 60
Upgraded Webcam
Yes, streaming a fantastic game without showing your facial expressions while beating your enemies is impossible.
Right?
So that is why having a great webcam for game streaming is vital.
The things and considerations that you need to take into account are:
- Field of view
- Image quality
- Compatible with your software
Opting for a full HD camera or an ordinary HD one is up to you for good image quality.
Full HD with 1080 pixels offers you extra pixels, thus making the image sharper and clearer with better color accuracy and detail.
Next, you must consider the camera’s field of view, as it defines how many scenes and pictures it can capture. For certain needs, a webcam with a wide-field view is preferable to set the position for a better angle.
Therefore, opting for the best webcam can offer steady and clear video to minimize issues with visual quality while streaming.
Some of the best webcams are:
- Ausdom AW615
- eMEET c 960
These equipment for live streaming can definitely help you get more viewers on platforms like Twitch, YouTube or Facebook.
Top Notch Streaming Software:
Without good streaming software, no game streaming setup is complete enough to support good videos. Streaming software can make your experience more frictionless without compromising your chosen platforms.
With the help of this software, you can customize the streaming layout even after applying visual effects to your video. In addition, you can also apply filters to your video to improve the audio quality and manage your audio sources.
The aspects that you should take into consideration when choosing streaming software are:
Types of Software
Not all types of software can be installed on your computer because most medals are in the form of desktop software, such as OBS. At the same time, you can find browser-based software like Strea Yard and Restream Studios.
Features
You can customize your video better with the features your software has. This means that you can easily customize your setup with ease and comfort. Not only that, but the latest and most advanced features, like multistreaming, can show you that you are a professional streamer.
Audio Mixer
Before delivering the final mix to your streaming software, an audio mixer for game streaming allows you to adjust and balance various audio sources, including your game audio, microphone, music, alerts, and more. This ensures your audience has a balanced and excellent audio experience during live streaming. I’ll list some of the most common solutions for each category of audio mixing software and gear available for game streaming.
Voicemeter Software Audio Mixer Banana:
A common software audio mixer that makes it simple to route and combine audio inputs. It is quite programmable and functions well for PC and streaming settings.
Open Broadcaster Software (OBS Studio):
OBS Studio, commonly known as Open Broadcaster Software, is largely used for broadcasting, although it also has some rudimentary audio mixing features. You can change the audio sources and volume levels within the app itself.
OBS Studio is comparable to Streamlabs OBS, except Streamlabs OBS has a more user-friendly interface and built-in functionality for streamers. It can manage many audio sources through audio mixing.
Interfaces and coaxial audio mixers:
GoXLR
A well-known hardware audio mixer created especially for streamers, offering real-time control over various audio sources, voice effects, and programmable buttons for instant modifications.
The Roland Go
Mixer Pro is a small, lightweight audio mixer suitable for use with portable setups. You can combine many audio sources and transmit the finished product to your streaming device.
Streamers looking for better audio quality and more sophisticated control over audio sources might choose the Yamaha MG Series Mixers, which are professional-grade audio mixers.
Consider your budget, the number of audio sources you need to manage, and whether you prefer a software-based solution or a specialized hardware mixer when selecting an audio mixer for game streaming. Check your streaming setup’s compatibility and the degree of control and customization each choice offers to match your unique streaming requirements.
Proper lighting system
A professional and visually pleasing stream must have proper lighting in the gaming setup. A step-by-step tutorial for getting good lighting is provided below:
Lighting Devices
Spend money on high-quality lighting fixtures that fit your budget and viewing area. LED panels, softboxes, rings, or even studio lights are some of the more common choices. Think about the following lighting types:
Key Light
This is the main illumination source and should be the brightest. Place it with the point facing your face at a 45-degree angle, just above eye level. This light softens shadows and illuminates your face.
Fill Light
Place the lower-intensity fill light opposite the primary light. It eliminates the shadows that direct sunlight leaves behind, providing a more even lighting configuration.
Backlight/Accent Light
A backlight or accent light is placed behind you to make you stand out from the background and give the photo depth. It helps you stand out from the ground by giving your silhouette a lovely halo appearance.
Color Temperature
To prevent color imbalances, make sure that the color temperature of each of your lights is constant. As was already said, daylight (about 5600K) is frequently utilized for a natural look, but you can change the temperature depending on the tone and atmosphere you want to create.
Positioning of lights
Pay attention to how your lights are positioned and at what angles. Find the balanced and most aesthetically pleasing arrangement for your face and gaming area by experimenting with various postures. A direct light source behind you should be avoided, as it may produce undesirable glare or silhouettes.
Diffusion
If your lighting is too harsh, use diffusers or softboxes to soften the light and give your face a more attractive and flattering appearance.
Avoid Glare and Reflections
Inspect your streaming area for reflecting objects such as screens, glasses, and other items. To reduce reflections, adjust the lighting or apply anti-glare coatings.
Test and Adjust
Lighting varies according to your camera, the surrounding area, and your tastes. Spend some time experimenting with various lighting configurations and modifying them until you get the desired outcomes.
Consistency
Try to maintain the same lighting arrangement during all of your streaming sessions. Mark the locations and settings of your lights once you’ve found the ideal deal, so you can quickly repeat it for subsequent broadcasts.
Consider the setting
Lighting your background is essential for producing a nice stream. Make sure it is well-lit, and for added visual flair, add some accent lighting or colored lights.
Use Natural Light (if Possible)
Try utilizing natural light in your setup, such as through a window, if you can access it. Use drapes or diffusers to reduce or increase the intensity, but be aware of how the light changes during the day.
Remember that proper lighting improves the overall quality of your game streaming footage, increasing viewer enjoyment. The professionalism and appeal of your streams will be significantly impacted if you try to set up your lights correctly.
Green screen
Using a green screen setup, you can substantially improve the visual appeal of your gaming streams and expand your creative options. Here is a detailed explanation of how to accomplish it:
Choosing a green screen
You can use a real green screen (made of green fabric or a pop-up screen) or a digital one (chroma keying with software).
Digital green screens employ software to eliminate the green background, while physical green screens take room and setup but produce better results.
Set Up Adequate illumination
To produce a constant green color, ensure you have enough illumination on the green screen. Reduce shadows and provide equal lighting by using bright, diffuse lighting.
Avoid fluorescent lights or other flashing light sources since they interfere with chroma keying.
Positioning and Distance
Set up the green screen and distance yourself comfortably from the camera. A color spill may occur if you are too close, where the green light reflects onto you and interferes with the chroma keying procedure.
To reduce color spill, keep your distance from the green screen at least a few feet.
Adjust your camera’s exposure, white balance, and focus settings to ensure appropriate color representation on the green screen.
If you can, lock the camera settings to prevent them from changing while streaming.
Software for Chroma Keying
Use streaming applications that allow chroma keying, such as XSplit, OBS Studio, or Streamlabs OBS. Chroma key filters are used in these programs to eliminate the green background.
Adjust the chroma key settings for color tolerance, spill reduction, and edge smoothing for the best results. Try out various locations and make necessary adjustments.
Select Background Photos or Videos
Choose background photos or videos that go with the theme and content of your stream. Scenes from video games, overlays, or other appealing images may be included.
Test and Adjust
Test streams to examine your feed’s chroma key functionality and general appearance.
Appropriately adjust the lighting, camera settings, and chroma key filters to create a polished and expert appearance.
Interactivity and Overlay Elements
To boost audience connection and engagement throughout the live, use the green screen configuration to add various overlay features, such as a chat box, alerts, donation targets, or social media information.
Check for Artifacts
Look for any potential chroma-keying artifacts or problems, such as flashing edges or transparent body sections. Adapt your system to lessen these issues.
Be Creatively Engaged
Investigate imaginative possibilities for your stream with a green screen, such as adding dynamic backgrounds, animated effects, or visual storytelling components.
Remember that putting up a green screen could involve trial and error and fine-tuning to get the best results. When set up correctly, a green screen greatly improves your game streaming material’s visual appeal and overall presentation.
What future chances and difficulties could there be for game streaming?
Challenges include:
- Dealing with input lag and latency.
- Expanding internet infrastructure globally.
- Protecting enticing game libraries.
- Resolving legal and licensing problems.
Possibilities include encouraging game developers to provide stream-ready games and connecting streaming services with other platforms and media to increase access to gaming in areas with restricted hardware availability. Further boosting the game streaming experience may be performance improvements and decreased latency brought on by advances in cloud computing technologies.
What are the benefits of game streaming?
Accessibility: Game streaming enables consumers to play games on various gadgets without needing expensive gaming gear, such as smartphones, tablets, budget PCs, and smart TVs.
Reduced Download and Installation Times: Players can immediately complete the download or installation process since the game is hosted on servers.
Support for several platforms: Players can switch gadgets without losing their place in the game.
High-quality visuals: Even on devices that cannot run games locally, users can still experience high-quality visuals and performance.
What are the drawbacks of game streaming?
Internet dependence: Playing online games requires a dependable and quick internet connection, which can be a problem for users in places with poor internet access.
Even with a strong internet connection, there may be visible input latency, which affects how quickly the game responds.
Data Usage: Users with restricted data plans may have trouble streaming games due to high data usage.
Limitations on the game library: For technical and licensing reasons, not all games may be playable on streaming services.
What businesses provide game streaming services? Some notable game streaming providers as of my most recent update in September 2021 were:
- Google Stadia
- Microsoft xCloud (now integrated with Xbox Game Pass)
- NVIDIA GeForce Now
- Sony PlayStation Now
- Steam Remote Play (in-home streaming)
- EA Play’s Cloud Gaming (formerly known as Project Atlas)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does game streaming work?
Game streaming operates by running the game on distant servers with powerful hardware. These servers handle the game’s processing and send the video and audio output to the player’s device. The server receives input from the player, such as button presses and mouse movements. The server then analyzes the data and modifies the game state as necessary. This ongoing cycle makes real-time games possible.
Is game streaming the future of gaming?
As it provides increased accessibility and convenience, game streaming has the potential to play a key role in the gaming industry. Local gaming still offers higher performance and responsiveness, especially for competitive gamers and enthusiasts with high-end hardware preferences, so it might only partially displace traditional gaming.
How does game streaming affect game developers and publishers?
By reaching a larger audience, game streaming can increase potential revenue streams for game developers and publishers. It also presents difficulties, such as fixing latency problems and ensuring games are prepared for streaming platforms. Furthermore, revenue-sharing and licensing agreements between streaming services and developers/publishers are essential for long-term business models.
Final thoughts
Game streaming is a cutting-edge method of gaming that provides accessibility, convenience, and the chance to appeal to a larger audience. Although it has benefits, issues with internet infrastructure, latency, and data usage must be resolved to guarantee a fluid gaming experience. The development of internet infrastructure, future technological developments, and the degree to which the gaming industry adopts and embraces these new technologies will determine the course of game streaming.