Gaming Streaming Starter Kit

By Brian Zwerner, Co-Founder of Beyond The Game Network

Our group is comprised of 25+ former professional athletes, most of whom are in their 30s. Many of these athletes are seeing their former teammates getting involved in streaming of video game content. We get asked a lot "what is the minimum set-up I need to stream?" This post will walk you through the requirements. Thank you to the pro streamers from global esports leader F2K for their help in putting this starter kit together.

So first big question we often get is "I have an Xbox [or PS4] can't I just hop online?" Sadly is the answer is generally no. While you can play games online you won't be able to push a professional looking feed to Twitch, YouTube or any of the other gaming platforms in this manner. You will need to have a computer with a capture card and a camera/mic set-up that will allow the viewers to see you while you play.

Here are some items you will need to stream effectively, all for a cost under $2,000.

• Gaming Computer: you will need a relatively high powered gaming computer, even if you are planning to play console games. This will allow you to get your stream to Twitch along with the video of you playing. This model comes with a mouse and keyboard included, if not you will need to buy these too. Cost $999.
• Gaming Monitor: a faster than normal computer monitor is also needed. Here is a solid option on the lower end of prices. Cost $169.
• Gaming Headset: you will need a high quality gaming headset or microphone set-up. This is a good version here. Cost $99.
• Webcam: the audience wants to see you while you game. A lower end webcam option is here. Cost $79.
• Capture Card: this will allow you to get the gaming video into the streaming software. Cost $179.
• Streaming software: to start with you should be able to use a free streaming product like OBS Studio. Cost $0.
• Gaming Console: if you want to play console games, you will need either a Xbox or PS4. If you're already a gamer, hopefully you have one of these already. Cost $299.
• Lighting: most streamers need to add some lighting to their play area to make sure they look good on the camera. This simple solution will help. Cost $69.

Please note that many of the items above are entry level choices that meet the minimum requirement to play video games and do a basic stream. It is certainly possible to spend many thousands of dollars further on a more advanced set-up.

If you are interested in getting involved with streaming of gaming content, please reach out and we can discuss our plans for Beyond The Game Network or get you connected with the team at F2K for further information.