In recent years, the spheres of gaming and streaming have interconnected to the point where the two are almost inseparable. Many of the most popular streamers on every platform make a very comfortable living posting primarily gaming-related content.

The extraordinary recent success of video game streaming has seen giants such as Facebook and YouTube branch out into the industry. There is a constant tussle for the biggest creators, many of whom almost exclusively stream themselves playing video games.

Keen viewers will tune into an almost endless variety of game genres. First-person shooters, sandbox games and MOBAS are just a few examples that accumulate a huge viewership.

Online casinos have also benefited massively from the availability of streaming, although in a slightly different manner. Live-streaming casino games allow the player to have a more authentic experience that closely resembles being physically present.

For many with just a few thousand subscribers, streaming is a hobby, for others it is a profession earning potential millions.

Why Gamers Love Livestreams?

Just as video games themselves have evolved, the way in which we interact with them has similarly developed. The huge gaming conventions attended by thousands annually are a testament to how far the industry has come from the pioneering 2D arcade games.

What started as a niche pastime enjoyed by relatively few has become a huge part of many people’s lives. Streaming is one of the latest ways the average gamer is trying to satiate their gaming appetite.

Streaming offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the games we love away from the frustration and effort that comes with playing ourselves. Furthermore, the unique and entertaining personality of the streamer enhances the experience in a way that playing alone simply can’t.

Livestreaming’s Effect on Casino Gaming

The previously mentioned way livestreaming has revolutionized casino gaming can’t be overstated. Rather than having to play through a digitalized rendering of a casino game, playing with a real table and dealer is now an option.

The livestreamed version shows both the dealer and table clearly, which reassures viewers that all outcomes are entirely legitimate.

Live roulette is amongst one of the most popular games when live streaming. There is an undeniable satisfaction of seeing a dealer spin the ball which is hard to mimic digitally.

Live casino games also encourage viewer interactivity that isn’t available when playing alone. Players can interact both with each other and the live dealer, who in many instances responds to and engages with participants.

Esports

Another way in which the love of live streaming has manifested itself is through esports. Whilst anyone who streams themselves gaming daily will inevitably develop more skills than the average player, there is a keen interest in the world’s best.

Esports pits teams filled with the most accomplished gamers against one another in front of huge crowds. Global esports viewership reached 474 million in 2021, with the large majority tuning in to watch the events via live stream.

In 2021, the global esports industry was valued at 1.08 billion dollars, up almost 50% from the previous year. Forecasts predict the industry to reach a value of as much as 1.62 billion by the year 2024.

The global esports industry is now big enough to attract some of the most lucrative sponsorships possible. Recent years have seen some incredibly big giants join the party, including Red Bull, BMW and even the US air force.

The Livestreaming Community

Aside from the entertainment benefits offered by watching another person gaming, there is a strong and indispensable social element. A prominent chat feature allows concurrent viewers to talk amongst themselves as well as interact with the streamer.

Although interactivity with the streamer becomes difficult when the viewer’s number in the thousands, it is a key feature of lesser-known streamers. It is perhaps one of the best ways for introverted people to join an active community away from the pressure of face-to-face social interactions.

Many of the most popular streamers have spoken about how they gained confidence through Gaming and Streaming and began to overcome social anxiety. Global live streaming audiences hit over 700 million last year, showing the extent it has grown and its immense popularity.

Reasons to Start Streaming

Despite the huge names that spring to mind when talking about streaming, it is equally as enjoyable for those just starting. Streaming offers a range of benefits that appeal to any gamer, regardless of how casually they play.

Streaming is a great creative outlet that encompasses many elements. Brainstorming channel design and content ideas is a good way to hone creativity and can be extremely rewarding.

Live streaming games is also a way to encounter new people with whom you can potentially play. Especially for smaller streamers just starting out, it is a great way to interact and meet potential gaming partners.

Another reason that streaming is so popular is that it is extremely easy to get into. A newcomer only needs a decent camera, microphone and recording software.

The popularity of streaming games means that most consoles have integrated support including screen capture and voice broadcasting. For anyone wanting to try it for the first time, it has never been cheaper or easier.

Conclusion

Few things are better suited to each other than gaming and live streaming. Not only is it a great source of entertainment for those watching; it can also be a very rewarding hobby.

Some of live streaming’s biggest benefits include finding friends, building confidence, and enhancing the fun of playing any game.