Twitch has seen explosive growth over the last few years, rounding up at over 140 million users at the start of 2022. Of those 140 million, 9 million are actively streaming content in some form, and are producing media on almost a daily basis.
What does that mean for you?
Well, it opens up a world of opportunities to connect with new people, share your love for gaming, and even make a little money on the side.
Once you know how to stream on Twitch, playing games for a live audience becomes almost addictive. But what are the best games to stream on Twitch? That’s a question that’s asked often, and there’s no easy answer – especially considering that every game is different.
What’s popular today might not be so tomorrow; however, we’ve put together a list of some of the most popular games that are being streamed right now on Twitch, as well as a few tips to get you started.
Ready? Let’s stream!
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What are the best games to stream on Twitch?
Streaming a game is a little different from Twitch IRL streaming, in that you need to take an additional step: choosing which game to stream. That decision can be very difficult to make, and will have significant consequences in terms of your viewership, interest levels, and future.
After careful consideration, we’ve come up with some of the very best games to stream on Twitch – not just in terms of popularity, but also playability and quality. Here are our picks:
Grand Theft Auto V
Set in sunny Los Santos, Grand Theft Auto V is the fifth game in a beloved series of open-world action adventure games. Played from a third-person perspective, the player explores the city and completes missions to make the story progress. The game is notable for its humor, violence, and sexual content.
Why is GTA V on our list?
Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most popular games to stream on Twitch. Viewers can watch as the streamer completes missions, races around the city, and engages in other mayhem. The game’s chaotic nature and its wide open world make for exciting viewing, and there are a variety of mods to keep things interesting!
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows
Can you stream GTA V with Lightstream? Yup! Funny, gritty, and gory, GTA V is one of the top streamed games on Lightstream. It’s a breeze to set up, too – try for yourself!
Viewers: 53.1K
Followers: 52.2M
Fortnite
2017 was a great year for co-op gamers, with the release of several popular titles, including A Way Out and Destiny 2. But one game in particular has taken the world by storm: Fortnite. This last-player-standing shooter has quickly become one of the most popular games to stream on Twitch.
Why is Fortnite on our list?
Part of Fortnite’s appeal is its destructible environment and rapid pace, with players often dying within seconds of starting a match. This creates a high level of tension and excitement that keeps viewers engaged. What’s more, it’s free to play!
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Android, PlayStation 5, macOS, Microsoft Windows
Can you stream Fortnite with Lightstream? Absolutely. Fortnite is good old fashioned goofy fun, and Fortnite streamers are a big chunk of our userbase. Start now!
Viewers: 30.2K
Followers: 80.8M
Minecraft
Unless you’ve been living under a dirt block, you know that Minecraft is one of the most popular games in the world. It’s no surprise that it’s also one of the most streamed games on Twitch. With its blocky graphics and near-infinite possibilities, Minecraft is perfect for streaming.
Why is Minecraft on our list?
Minecraft provides great opportunities for both creative and competitive streamers. Creative streamers can show off their amazing builds, while competitive players can battle it out in mini-games or survival mode. Streamers on Minecraft have so much flexibility in what they can do, and that’s why it’s one of the best games to stream on Twitch.
Platforms: PC, Mac, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, Nintendo Switch
Can you stream Minecraft with Lightstream? Of course! Minecraft is a cult-classic, and one of our team favourites here at Lightstream. Start today!
Viewers: 40K
Followers: 43.1M
Dead By Daylight
For all of our horror enthusiasts out there, Dead By Daylight is definitely a game to check out on Twitch. This 4 vs 1 multiplayer game is all about escaping the killer, and it can be quite intense! With a constantly updating map and new killers and survivors being added regularly, there is always something new to experience with this game.
Why is Dead By Daylight on our list?
In terms of streaming, Dead By Daylight certainly keeps both viewers and players at the edge of their seats. The suspense and fear that comes with trying to survive against all odds is something that draws viewers in, and the reactions of players (especially those who are new to the game) are always entertaining.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia, Android
Can you stream Dead by Daylight with Lightstream? You can! Start streaming brutal zombie gore at 1080p using Lightstream Studio today!
Viewers: 20.2K
Followers: 11.3M
Apex Legends
There’s nothing like a good shooting game, especially one that is totally free to play. Apex Legends is a new contender in the battle royale genre, and it’s already taken the world by storm. With its smooth gameplay, great graphics, and fun team mechanics, it’s no wonder that this game is so popular with streamers.
Why is Apex Legends on our list?
If you are a streamer who enjoys the occasional (or daily) shootout, Apex Legends is definitely a game you’ll want to check out. The gameplay is fast-paced and exciting, and there’s always something new to learn. Plus, with tens of millions of players, you’re sure to find some great audience members who are excited to watch you dominate the competition.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, Microsoft Windows
Can you stream Apex Legends with Lightstream? For sure! Show your viewers Apex Legends in all of its glory by setting up a simple, beautiful stream on Lightstream. Try now!
Viewers: 80.2K
Followers: 15.2M
Albion Online
If fast-paced action and shooting isn’t really your style, you might prefer an RPG sandbox game like Albion Online. This game lets you explore a vast open world, complete with other players and dangerous creatures. You can choose to play as a lone wolf or team up with others to complete quests and build your dream home.
Why is Albion Online on our list?
Albion Online is the ideal streaming game for a few reasons. Not only is the game easy to pick up and play, but it’s also visually stunning. Watching someone navigate the world and take down enemies is sure to keep your viewers entertained.
Platforms: Android, Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Classic macOS
Hint: if you’re a console player, you can try similar games like Temtem on PS4/5, Switch, and Xbox One.
Viewers: 142
Followers: 357K
Call of Duty: Warzone
The gaming community has been spoiled with some excellent free-to-play games over the years, one of which is Call of Duty: Warzone. Released in March 2020, Warzone is a battle royale game that can be played solo, in duos, or in squads of up to four players. The action takes place on a large map, and players fight hard to be the last one standing.
Why is Call of Duty: Warzone on our list?
What makes Warzone so popular among streamers is its fast-paced action and wide variety of gameplay options. There’s always something new happening, which keeps viewers engaged. In addition, the game is very well-optimized, making it easy to stream on Twitch.
Platforms: Xbox Series X and Series S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows
Can you stream Call of Duty: Warzone with Lightstream? You bet! Call of Duty is one of the most popular games our users stream. Join in on the fun!
Viewers: 28.4K
Followers: 16.3M
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Perhaps you’re more of a modern-military gamer. In that case, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is your game. Released in 2012, the latest installment of Counter-Strike pits teams of terrorists and counter-terrorists against each other in a variety of map designs.
Why is Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on our list?
So, what makes this game so popular for streaming? Simple: the high tension and skill ceiling. It’s easy to get hooked on watching the best players in the world play at a high level, especially when things come right down to the wire.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Xbox One, Linux, Xbox 360, Classic macOS, PlayStation 3
Viewers: 73.4K
Followers: 31.8M
Animal Crossing
This game is possibly one of the most-loved games to ever grace the Nintendo console. Animal Crossing is a life simulation game in which players take on the role of a character who moves into a village populated with anthropomorphic animals.
The player is then free to explore the village, interact with the other villagers, and participate in various activities such as fishing, bug catching, and planting trees.
Why is Animal Crossing on our list?
Animal Crossing is a perfect game to stream on Twitch because it is both relaxing and entertaining. It is the type of game that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages, and it provides an enjoyable experience for those who are watching as well as those who are playing.
Platforms: Nintendo 64, GameCube, Android, Nintendo DS, iQue Player, iOS, Wii and Wii U
Hint: If you own a Nintendo Switch and want to join in the fun, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the game for you!
Followers: 87.3K
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Touted as one of the most beautiful adventure games of all time, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a must-stream title. Players take on the role of Link as he sets off on an epic quest to stop Ganondorf, the king of the Gerudo tribe, from acquiring the Triforce and ruling over Hyrule.
Why is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on our list?
What makes Ocarina of Time so captivating to watch is its expansive world filled with interesting characters and thrilling gameplay. The game has been praised for its cinematic visuals, outstanding music, and engaging storyline, all of which make it a great title to stream on Twitch.
Platforms: Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, Nintendo Switch, Wii U, iQue Player
Viewers: 353
Followers: 1.5M
Resident Evil Village
After the raging success of Resident Evil VII: Biohazard, there were high standards set – but those are certainly met (and some might say exceeded) in Resident Evil Village. The eighth installment of the Resident Evil series follows Ethan Winters as he explores a strange and unpredictable European village filled with terrifying haunts.
Why is Resident Evil Village on our list?
There is a strong sense of community built around the Resident Evil series on Twitch. Many viewers and streamers are passionate about the games and love to share their theories and gameplay tips. This means that there’s always plenty of discussion happening in chat, making for a more engaging experience.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia
Can you stream Resident Evil Village with Lightstream? Totally. Add custom overlays and kick zombie butt in style now!
Viewers: 126
Followers: 416K
Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
The Witcher Universe is undoubtedly one of the most popular video game franchises in the world. So, when CD Projekt Red announced they were making a Witcher-based card game, fans of the series went crazy.
Gwent is a turn-based card game that can be played by two or four players. The aim of the game is to win two out of three rounds by either dealing more damage than your opponent or by having a higher score at the end of the round.
Why is Gwent: The Witcher Card Game on our list?
What makes Gwent so popular to stream is its combination of tactical decision-making and card collecting. There’s also a lot of depth to the game, which means that even experienced card game players can still find something new to learn.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Android, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Xbox One, iOS
Viewers: 3.1K
Followers: 740K
Jackbox
If you’re looking for some great games to stream that will have your viewers in peels of laughter, Jackbox is your best bet. It’s a game pack offering a variety of hilarious games that feature wordplay, wit, and a healthy dose of competition!
Why is Jackbox on our list?
The Jackbox games are easy to learn and can accommodate a lot of players, which is great for groups watching the stream. Plus, they’re all pretty funny, so you can expect a good time when playing them (unless you’ve got a particularly tough crowd).
Platforms: Android (selected systems), Apple TV, Google Stadia, Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S
Viewers: 241
Followers: 454K
Subnautica
This underwater indie adventure game is visually stunning, and it’s also really fun to play. Subnautica follows a crashed submarine crew member (that’s you) who must find a way to escape the depths of the ocean using whatever tools and resources you can find. It can be quite intense and addictive as you race to unravel the mysteries of the submarine.
Why is Subnautica on our list?
Subnautica is a great game to stream because it’s so visually appealing. The vast ocean landscapes are mesmerizing, and viewers will love getting a glimpse of the game’s beautiful world. The gameplay is also exciting and suspenseful, so viewers will be glued to the stream to see what happens next.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems
Viewers: 134
Followers: 1.1M
Hades
Released in late 2018, Hades has quickly become a favorite among streamers for its fast-paced and action-packed game play. It’s set in the Underworld, where players must guide their hero through a series of ever-changing labyrinths, all while defeating hordes of mythological monsters and avoiding deadly traps.
Why is Hades on our list?
This game has been praised for its beautiful graphics and engaging game play, making it a perfect choice for streaming. It’s also engaging story-wise, providing plenty of opportunities for streamers to narrate and engage with their viewers.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
Can you stream Hades with Lightstream? Absolutely – we make it simple to get started streaming, whether it’s Hades or another game. Get started today!
Viewers: 258
Followers: 228K
And finally: any game you like!
Whether you’re an RPG shooter fanatic or the sandbox queen, one of the above games is bound to appeal to your tastes. If not, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring the vast array of options out there and choosing something that screams you.
Find an Indie game that you love, or any content that you think will make you stand out. People like watching you play something you’re passionate about, so don’t feel limited to the same old games that everyone’s playing!
It’s great to be doing something that you’re passionate about, and live streaming with gaming makes a wholesome combination of fun and functionality! Apart from your favorite games, you can record your own podcasts, live shows, host interviews, etc., when it comes to growing your channel and engaging with a big community. Want to explore the live streaming world with more advanced features and tools? Here’s your chance to enroll for our free twitch gamer subscription today. Click below to join.
How to find more games
All that being said, how can you find different games when the same three titles are thrown at you from all angles?
1. Consult the Twitch directory
Twitch’s game directory is a great place to start. From there, Twitch also offers a variety of lists for you to explore, curated by the live streaming community itself.
2. Pick a genre
It’s also a good idea to decide which genres you enjoy most, as this will help to refine your search and make the process easier.
The following are some popular genres that you can delve into:
- Fighting Games: Tekken 7, Street Fighter V, Injustice 2
- First-Person Shooters: CS:GO, PUBG, Overwatch
- Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas: LoL, DOTA 2, Hearthstone
- Roguelikes: Darkest Dungeon, Rogue Legacy
- Simulators: Euro Truck Simulator 2, American Truck Simulator
- Sandbox Games: Garry’s Mod, Minecraft
3. Ask for suggestions
If all else fails, ask your gaming friends or any communities you’ve connected with. Forums like Reddit can be an excellent place to ask for recommendations, as the members of these forums are often highly experienced and invested in the gaming world.
Final thoughts: How to Build your Audience
Choosing your game is the easy part; what comes next can be a little more challenging. You’ll need to build your audience by engaging with them and providing top-notch content.
Make sure you’re following these tips to engage with your viewers and keep them coming back for more:
- One of the best ways to keep your viewers engaged is to interact with them. Thank them for tuning in, ask them what they think of the game, and answer any questions they may have.
- Try to keep your commentary light and entertaining. Joke with your viewers, make funny faces, and keep things fun.
- Use audio and visuals to enhance your stream. Graphics and overlays can help keep viewers engaged, while music can add an extra level of excitement to the game.
Streaming with Lightstream? We make adding audio & visuals a breeze. Check out how here! - While it’s important to have fun and be entertaining, you also want to maintain a professional image. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, stay organized, and keep your language clean.
- Finally, it’s essential to be engaged with your viewers. Watch other streams, chat with viewers in the chat room, and just generally be active in the community.
Once you’ve got those skills down, you’re ready to build an audience around the game of your choosing. Have fun, and happy streaming!
