Introduction
Navigating the dynamic landscape of video game streaming can be a thrilling journey, especially when you’re deciding on the perfect game to share with your audience. Platforms like Twitch are teeming with a variety of games that cater to a diverse viewership, making it essential for new streamers to carve out a unique space and captivate viewers. If you’re just dipping your toes into the streaming world, understanding the top games streamed on Twitch can be a powerful tool in drawing viewers and cultivating a loyal community. In this piece, we’ll delve into the importance of choosing the best games to stream on Twitch for new streamers in 2023, with a spotlight on the most viewed, most beloved, and most streamed games.
Quick Glance: Top Games To Stream for New Streamers
Before we delve deeper, here’s a handy table that categorizes the games we’ll discuss in this post. It ranks them based on ease of entry for new streamers, giving you a quick overview of what to expect. Let’s take a look:
| Game | Nature | Genre | Ease of Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minecraft | Casual | Sandbox, Survival | Easy |
| Diablo IV | Casual | Action RPG | Easy |
| The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | Casual | Action-Adventure | Fairly Easy |
| Grand Theft Auto V | Casual | Action-Adventure | Medium |
| Fortnite | Competitive | Battle Royale | Medium |
| Apex Legends | Competitive | Battle Royale | Medium |
| League of Legends | Both | MOBA | Medium |
| Counter-Strike | Competitive | First-Person Shooter | Fairly Hard |
| Valorant | Competitive | First-Person Shooter | Fairly Hard |
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II | Competitive | First-Person Shooter | Fairly Hard |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | Competitive | Battle Royale | Fairly Hard |
| World of Warcraft | Both | MMORPG | Hard |
Skill-Based vs. Casual Games: What to Stream?
When it comes to streaming on Twitch, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to focus on competitive multiplayer (skill-based) games or more casual games. This choice can significantly impact the type of audience you attract and the kind of content you create. Here’s a closer look at each category and how to decide between them:
Competitive Multiplayer Games
Competitive multiplayer games, often skill-based, are typically fast-paced and require strategic thinking, quick reflexes, and a deep understanding of game mechanics. Examples include games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, Valorant, Dota 2, and Overwatch. These games often have a robust esports scene, adding another layer of interest for viewers.
Streaming these games can attract an audience interested in high-level play, learning strategies, and improving their skills. However, it’s important to note that viewers often expect a certain level of skill and knowledge from streamers who play these games. This could be a good fit for you if you’re highly skilled at a game or enjoy the competitive aspect.
Casual Games
Casual games, on the other hand, often focus more on exploration, creativity, story, and character development. Examples include games like The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, Minecraft, and The Sims series. These games offer a more relaxed pace and can be just as entertaining to watch.Streaming casual games can attract an audience interested in the game’s story, world, and characters. Viewers might also enjoy seeing your creativity, such as building projects in Minecraft or designing a town in Animal Crossing. If you enjoy sharing your reactions, engaging with a game’s story, and creating a relaxing atmosphere, casual games might be a great choice.
Making the Decision
When deciding between competitive multiplayer and casual games, consider your gaming preferences, skill level, and the type of audience you want to attract. Do you enjoy the thrill of competition, or do you prefer a more relaxed gaming experience? Do you want to help viewers improve their skills, or would you rather entertain them with your reactions and commentary?
Also, consider your viewers’ preferences. What games do they enjoy watching? What kind of content do they find valuable and entertaining? You can use tools like Twitch’s game directory or Google Trends to see what games are currently popular and what might appeal to your target audience.
Most Watched Games on Twitch
One of the most valuable metrics to consider is the ‘most watched’ games on Twitch. These games have proven their appeal and hold a large, active community that can potentially become your audience. Contrary to what one might assume, these popular games are not always oversaturated with streamers, leaving room for new voices to shine.
Choosing to stream a game from this list can offer several advantages. Firstly, these games have a proven track record of attracting viewers, which can help you gain visibility. Secondly, their active communities often have a hunger for new content and perspectives, providing an opportunity for you to make your mark. Lastly, these games often have ongoing updates and developments, keeping the content fresh and engaging for both streamers and viewers.
So, as you consider which game to stream, taking a closer look at the most watched games on Twitch can be a strategic move. Let’s explore these games and see what they have to offer:
1. League of Legends (Competitive or Casual)
(Image Credit: Riot Games)
League of Legends, a stalwart in the MOBA genre, continues to command attention with over 22 million views. Its strategic gameplay and vibrant competitive scene have cemented its place on Twitch.
Hours Watched: 112.6M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 155.8K
Average Channels: 3.3K
Followers: 36M
2. Valorant (Competitive )
(Image Credit: Riot Games)
Valorant, a favorite among both streamers and viewers, has quickly carved out a niche for itself on Twitch, racking up nearly 20 million views. This first-person shooter from Riot Games, with its blend of unique character abilities and traditional shooter mechanics, offers a thrilling viewing experience.
Hours Watched: 97M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 120.3K
Average Channels: 4.6K
Followers: 16.7 M
3. Grand Theft Auto V (Casual)
(Image Credit: Rockstar Games)
Grand Theft Auto V, not only a popular game to stream but also one of the most watched, boasts over 20 million views. This is no surprise given the game’s expansive open world and compelling storylines, which provide a wealth of streaming content.
Hours Watched: 88M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 106.6K
Average Channels: 1.8K
Followers: 62M
4. Counter-Strike (Competitive )
(Image Credit: Valve Corporation)
Counter-Strike, maintaining its strong presence among the most streamed and watched games on Twitch, holds almost 15 million views. This enduring franchise is set to generate even more buzz with the upcoming release of Counter-Strike 2 in late summer 2023.
Hours Watched: 84.8M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 68.8K
Average Channels: 1.4K
Followers: 35.4M
5. Diablo IV (Casual)
(Image Credit: Activision Blizzard)
Diablo IV is leading the pack with a staggering 36 million views. This much-awaited chapter in the Diablo saga has drawn a large crowd, all keen to explore its intricate lore and tackle its challenging gameplay. If you’re new to Diablo IV, check out our beginner’s guide.
Hours Watched: 48.6M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 221K
Average Channels: 4.3K
Followers: 315K
6. Minecraft (Casual)
(Image Credit: Mojang Studios)
Finally, Minecraft, with its sandbox environment and survival gameplay, continues to charm audiences, amassing over 10 million views. The game’s creative possibilities make it a versatile choice for streamers.
Hours Watched: 50.5M (last 30 Days)
Average Viewers: 48.7K
Average Channels: 1.9K
Followers: 53.1M
These games, each with their unique genres and gameplay styles, showcase the broad spectrum of content that Twitch viewers enjoy. Whether you’re a streaming novice seeking a popular starting point, or a seasoned streamer looking to stay on top of current trends, these games present a plethora of opportunities for engaging content.
Most Streamed Games on Twitch
While focusing on the most-watched games is essential, new streamers should also consider the most-streamed games on Twitch to gauge competition and analyze how saturated the market is in each category. Here are some of the most streamed games on Twitch:
1. Fortnite: (Competitive)
(Image Credit: Epic Games)
Fortnite’s battle royale mode took the world by storm when it was released in 2017. Its fast-paced gameplay, frequent updates, and vibrant graphics make it a hit among streamers and viewers alike. The game’s competitive scene also attracts a large audience, with many tuning in to watch professional Fortnite players compete in tournaments.
Average Viewers: 105.2K
Average Channels: 7.3K
Followers: 88.1M
2. Valorant: (Competitive)
(Image Credit: Riot Games)
Riot Games’ first-person shooter has quickly become a staple on Twitch since its release in 2020. Valorant combines elements from other popular shooters with its unique character abilities, creating a strategic and exciting gameplay experience. Its competitive scene is rapidly growing, adding another layer of interest for viewers.
Average Viewers: 120.3K
Average Channels: 4.6K
Followers: 16.7M
3. Apex Legends (Competitive)
(Image Credit: Electronic Arts)
Respawn Entertainment’s battle royale has made significant strides in attracting streamers and viewers alike, with its unique take on the genre, engaging character abilities, and fast-paced matches. The game’s content drops and evolving lore keep it fresh and enhance its staying power on Twitch.
Average Viewers: 58.8K
Average Channels: 3.9K
Followers: 18.5M
4. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (Competitive)
(Image Credit: Activision Blizzard)
The Call of Duty franchise remains a favorite among both casual and competitive gamers. Streaming the latest installment can be an exciting prospect for those seeking high-octane action, dynamic gameplay, and opportunities to connect with fellow fans.
Average Viewers: 22K
Average Channels: 3K
Followers: 2.1M
5. Grand Theft Auto V (Casual)
(Image Credit: Rockstar Games)
Thanks to the flexibility of its open-world concept combined with the multiplayer component, GTA Online, the streaming scene for this game is always pumping with new content. From role-playing to heist compilations, there’s never a shortage of streaming ideas for this title.
Average Viewers: 106.5K
Average Channels: 1.8K
Followers: 62M
6. Counter-Strike (Competitive):
(Image Credit: Valve Corporation)
The tactical first-person shooter has maintained its presence on Twitch for years, with many professional players and well-established communities engaging in this long-running franchise. Jumping into CS: GO streaming can be competitive but offers the chance to join an enduring community. Moreover, with the anticipated release of Counter-Strike 2 in late summer 2023, there’s an exciting opportunity to be part of a new wave of interest and growth in this iconic serie
Average Viewers: 68.8K
Average Channels: 1.4K
Followers: 35.4M
7. World of Warcraft (Competitive or Casual)
(Image Credit: Activision Blizzard)
As an MMORPG icon, World of Warcraft maintains a massive player base that spans its multiple expansions. Its latest updates and incredible content depth allow for many streaming opportunities, from raiding to lore-focused exploration. If you’re interested in a unique challenge, check out our WoW Classic Hardcore Guide for an exciting way to experience the game.
Average Viewers: 41.9K
Average Channels: 1.3K
Followers: 10.3M
Best Games to Stream for New Streamers
For new streamers, choosing the right game to stream is not just about chasing trends but also considering factors like accessibility, personal enjoyment, and potential niche appeal. To assist you in this pivotal choice, we’ve sifted through the most streamed and most watched games on Twitch, and handpicked the top 5 games we believe are perfect for new streamers. These games span a range of casual and competitive gameplay, single-player and multiplayer experiences, and are backed by large, engaged communities. They open up a treasure trove of opportunities for new streamers to craft compelling content and draw in viewers. So, without further ado, let’s explore:
- Minecraft (Casual): Minecraft is a great starting point for new streamers due to its creative and survival gameplay. It’s one of the most watched games on Twitch, indicating a large potential audience. Plus, its sandbox environment allows for a wide range of content, from building projects to survival challenges, making it easier for new streamers to create unique and engaging content.
- Grand Theft Auto V (Casual): GTA V is both one of the most streamed and most watched games on Twitch. The game’s open-world concept and multiplayer component, GTA Online, provide a wealth of content possibilities. New streamers can engage in role-playing, heist compilations, and more, offering diverse content to attract viewers.
- Apex Legends (Competitive): For new streamers interested in competitive gaming, Apex Legends is a good choice. It’s unique take on the battle royale genre, engaging character abilities, and fast-paced matches make for exciting viewing. Plus, the game’s regular content updates and evolving lore keep it fresh and interesting for viewers.
- World of Warcraft (Competitive or Casual): World of Warcraft is a versatile option for new streamers, as it can be played casually or competitively. The game’s massive player base and variety of content, from raiding to lore-focused exploration, provide many opportunities for engaging streams. Plus, with your WoW Classic Hardcore Guide, new streamers can offer a unique perspective on the game.
- Valorant (Competitive): Valorant has quickly become a favorite among both streamers and viewers on Twitch. Its blend of traditional shooter mechanics and unique character abilities make for thrilling gameplay. For new streamers interested in competitive gaming, Valorant offers a chance to join a growing community and showcase strategic gameplay.
These 5 games provide a wealth of opportunities for new streamers to create engaging content and attract viewers.
Upcoming Games to Keep an Eye On
Awareness of upcoming game releases can give new streamers an advantage, allowing them to hop onto a fresh game before it becomes oversaturated on Twitch. Here are a couple of upcoming games that show potential for popularity on the streaming platform:
| Game Title | Release Date | Platforms | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown | January 18, 2024 | PS5, PS4, XSX, XBO, PC, Switch | |
| The Last of Us 2 Remastered | January 19, 2024 | PS5 | |
| Tekken 8 | January 26, 2024 | XSX, PS5, PC | |
| Helldivers 2 | February 8, 2024 | PS5, PC | |
| Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League | February 2, 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX | |
| Skull and Bones | February 16, 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX | |
| Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – Remake Part 2 | February 29, 2024 | PS5 | |
| Nightingale | February 22, 2024 | PC | |
| Alone in the Dark | March 20, 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX/S | |
| Dragon’s Dogma 2 | March 22, 2024 | PS5, XSX, PC | |
| Stalker 2 | TBC Q1 2024 | PC, XSX | |
| Destiny 2: The Final Shape | June 4, 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX, PS4, XBO | |
| Hades 2 | TBC Q2 2024 | PC | |
| Black Myth: Wukong | August 20, 2024 | PC, PS5, PS4, XSX, XBO | |
| Ark 2 | TBC 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX/S | |
| Hollow Knight: Silksong | TBC 2024 | PC, PS5, PS4, XSX, XBO, Switch | |
| Silent Hill 2 remake | TBC 2024 | PS5, PC | |
| Avowed | TBC 2024 | PC, XSX | |
| Horizon Forbidden West – Complete Edition | TBC 2024 | PC | |
| Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 | TBC 2024 | PC, XSX, XBO | |
| Star Wars Outlaws | TBC 2024 | PC, PS5, XSX | |
| GTA 6 | TBC 2025 | PS5, XSX |
(Source: GamesRadar)
Please note that release dates are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the official game or console websites for the most up-to-date information.
Preparing to stream upcoming titles, especially those with a strong fanbase and fascinating gameplay, can help new streamers attract attention and grow their channels. Stay updated on the latest game releases and be ready to dive into these new worlds with your viewers.
These 5 games provide a wealth of opportunities for new streamers to create engaging content and attract viewers.
How to Find the Best Games to Stream
Finding the perfect game to stream is a crucial step in your streaming journey. It can be the difference between attracting a large audience and struggling to get viewers. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the best games to stream on Twitch.
- Consider Your Interests: First and foremost, choose a game that you enjoy playing. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your streams, making them more engaging and entertaining for your viewers. If you’re not enjoying the game, your viewers will be equally unlikely to enjoy watching you play it.
- Research Popular Games: Use resources like Twitch’s game directory to discover current popular games. Remember that while streaming popular games can attract a larger audience, it can also mean more competition.
- Look for Upcoming Releases: Keep an eye on gaming news and upcoming releases. Streaming a new game can attract viewers interested in seeing what it is like before buying it. Websites like IGN and GameSpot are great resources for this.
- Find a Niche: Consider looking for less popular games with a dedicated community. Streaming these games can mean less competition and a more engaged audience. Websites like SteamCharts can help you find these niche games.
- Consider Your Audience: Think about who your target audience is. What games do they like to watch? What games are popular in their demographic? Use tools like Google Trends to help you understand what your target audience is interested in.
- Check the Game’s Twitch Community: Check out its community on Twitch before streaming a game. Is it a supportive and active community? Are there other streamers you can collaborate with? This can significantly influence your streaming experience.
Remember, the best game to stream depends on your preferences, target audience, and current gaming landscape. Experimenting with different games to see what works best for you and your channel is a good idea. Happy streaming!
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Game to Stream
Choosing the right game to stream is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the growth and success of your Twitch channel. However, many new streamers often make some common mistakes when selecting a game to stream. Here are a few to avoid:
- Streaming Oversaturated Games: While it might be tempting to stream the most popular games on Twitch, doing so can make it difficult for new streamers to stand out. The competition is fierce in these categories, and your stream can easily get lost among the thousands of others.
- Ignoring Your Audience’s Preferences: It’s essential to consider what your viewers want to see. If you’re streaming a game that your audience isn’t interested in, you’re likely to see a drop in viewership. Engage with your viewers, ask for their input, and consider their preferences when choosing a game to stream.
- Choosing Games Based Solely on Personal Preference: While it’s important to stream games that you enjoy, choosing games based solely on your personal preference without considering their streaming potential can limit your channel’s growth. Balance your enjoyment with the game’s popularity and potential for engaging content.
- Not Considering Game Longevity: Some games have a short lifespan in terms of popularity. They might be trendy for a few weeks or months, but then the hype dies down. When choosing a game to stream, consider its longevity and whether it will continue to attract viewers in the long term.
- Ignoring Upcoming Releases: As we mentioned earlier, streaming a new game can give you a head start before it becomes oversaturated. Ignoring upcoming releases and sticking only to current games can cause you to miss out on these opportunities.
- Not Adapting to Changes: The gaming industry is always evolving, and so are the trends on Twitch. What worked a few months ago might not work now. Staying adaptable and willing to change your streaming strategy as needed is crucial.
Remember, what game to stream isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, it depends on various factors, including your interests, audience preferences, and current trends. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make a more informed decision and choose the best game for your Twitch streaming journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best games to stream on Twitch is essential to building a successful and engaging channel. By considering the currently most watched, most popular, and most streamed games alongside upcoming releases, you can make an informed decision that caters to your interests and audience preferences. In addition, implementing growth strategies and staying consistent in your content creation will foster a sense of community around your channel, allowing you to immerse yourself in the exciting world of Twitch or YouTube streaming. Armed with insights on top games streamed on Twitch and practical tips for channel growth, you’re ready to embark on your streaming journey and connect with fellow gaming enthusiasts worldwide. Happy streaming!