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The Link Between Streaming Video Games and iGaming
Whilst many of the video games being streamed are story-based and interactive, you can also find people streaming their iGaming experiences.
15:41 24 January 2022
Over the past two years, there has been a significant increase in the number of people turning to streaming services when playing games. For example, it was reported that the streaming platform Twitch has gamers broadcasting around 2 billion hours per month across 9 million channels. Whilst many of the video games being streamed are story-based and interactive, you can also find people streaming their iGaming experiences. So, what is the link between iGaming and video game streaming?
Why do people stream?
People stream for a wide variety of reasons, but mostly because it’s fun to do, and is a good way of creating your own community of gamers. There is definitely a large social element to streaming, even if you only have a handful of viewers. Plus, with more and more women joining the streaming community in recent years, the trend is showing that gaming isn't just for guys.
How can iGaming keep up?
iGaming is massive in its own right, with more iGamers turning to streaming as a way of getting people interested. Whilst it’s generally the bigger names in gaming that get the most views, some of the smaller gaming companies using a type of turnkey sports betting website have become more popular. When you also consider how streaming helps new players understand how games work, it can be a good way to increase brand awareness and become a competitor in the iGaming scene.
Streaming essentials
As well as your choice of console, there are some important pieces of technology you’re going to need before you start your streaming adventure.
Capture card
Apart from the parts to build a PC, the capture card has significantly increased in price with the rise in people turning to streaming. These can be internal, so will need to be installed on the motherboard of the PC you’re using. Alternatively, an external capture card is connected to the device via a USB port and is generally less expensive than the internal version, priced from £30.
Headset
Though not essential, using a headset instead of computer speakers is a bonus if you’re playing a game you need to focus on. They are incredibly useful if you’re playing a game that requires stealth, so you can complete missions successfully. Furthermore, headsets will generally have a microphone attached, which will make it easier to interact with your viewers as you can talk to them without needing to type. With the wide range of headsets out there, you can buy one for around £50.
Webcam
Webcams have come a long way since they first hit the market, and there is now a wide range of cameras to choose from. These devices are useful for gaming as they allow viewers to get to know the person they’re watching. Although prices have increased over the past year and a half, you can pick one up for around £100.
Streaming is something that appears simpler than it is, but when you consider the games you want to play, as well as the equipment you’ll need, it’s a lot more complex. Whether you stream traditional video games or are more into iGaming, you definitely need to do your research before you go live.