So you're a fan of Twitch, you have a game or talent that you want to share with the world, and you've finally decided to take the plunge and become a Twitch streamer.
Congratulations! This is your first step into a much larger world.
However, with so many categories to choose from, how do you know what to prioritize if you want to succeed on the platform?
The secret to success on Twitch is partly knowing which categories are the most popular, but it's also knowing what it is about you that will draw an audience.
Before you spend too much time choosing a category and planning content, it's important to establish why you want to start streaming in the first place and what you hope to get out of it.
With these questions in mind, you can ask yourself: What kind of streamer do you want to be?
How to Choose a Twitch Category as a New Streamer
We can break Twitch categories down into two main sections:
- Video Games
- Other Content
We're going to go through some of the most common categories for streamers on Twitch. Ultimately, you must do what is best for you and your interests.
This list may contain a category that is a good fit for you. Or, you may realize that you want to combine a few different types. You might also want to try something completely different. There are no correct or incorrect answers—if it works for you, you're on the right track.
Here are some popular Twitch streamer categories to inspire your new streaming venture:
Video Games
You Know What You Like: The Single-Game Streamer
If you want to stream your favorite game exclusively, you'll certainly be able to find an audience who loves that game as much as you do.
You'll want to be able to:
- Offer interesting thoughts or analysis on the game
- Know the community that comes with the game
- Know inside tips on game mechanics
- Establish yourself as a go-to perspective for other fans of the game
You don't necessarily need to be extremely good at your game of choice (although it certainly wouldn't hurt), but you will want to be an expert.
Eclectic and Flexible: The Variety Streamer
This might be the best label for new streamers who are still wondering what exactly they should focus their Twitch streams on.
Variety streamers do a little bit of everything. You can be broad in what you bring to the table.
For example, if you're interested in indie games, you can stream new releases as they come out. Try having conversations with your viewers about:
- Different game studios
- Genres that piques your interest
- Your favorite game design styles
If a big part of what draws you to streaming on Twitch is forming a strong community with your viewers with similar interests, this could be the path for you.
Poggers: The Pro Streamer
This is a great option if you're highly skilled in a specific game. This category may not make sense for everyone; you don't have to be amazing at video games to be successful on Twitch!. However, if you do happen to be particularly impressive, people will want to watch you play.
The game can be complex, or it can be straightforward. Think of the incredibly popular game, Among Us.
If you can become great at a game everyone loves to play, they'll want to join you. Folks will surely stick around to watch you reach new heights.
Gift of Gab: The Just Chatting Streamer
Streamers in the "Just Chatting" category are becoming more and more popular. As community hosts, their personalities and entertainment pull in their audience.
A "Just Chatting" Twitch stream can become just about anything, including but not limited to:
- Streaming funny videos
- Karaoke session
- Community building
- Co-working
- Cooking
As long as you don't mind all eyes on you, this type of streaming can be an excellent opportunity to talk with new folks.
Organized Chit-Chat: The Host Streamer
If you want to have a show or podcast, you can stream it live on Twitch.
If you're eager to share your opinions and engage with guests from your audience on a favorite topic, this could be a great option for you.
The possibilities here are vast. Any topic that interests you enough to talk about for hours is ready to be transformed into a podcast.
When going into this niche, it's essential to know what you like and why. You'll need to establish your show with a clear vision to capture an audience.
In the Studio: The Art Streamer
If you have an artistic talent or skill that you'd like to share, you can pull in a cozy, creative audience to join you. Various types of art to stream on Twitch include:
- Painting
- Illustrating
- Sculpting
- Knitting and crocheting
- Digital art
Just like gaming streamers, art streamers should be passionate about what they do and excited to engage with others about it.
Similar to the above categories, you can approach streaming art on Twitch from a few different angles. You can stream several different types of creative projects and pull in an audience with your personality. Or, you can focus on one type of art and establish yourself as an expert.
Bottom line, if you're an artist who loves to chat about their work and share it with others online this could be a great avenue.
Find Your Calling
While these are a few of the most popular streaming categories on Twitch, there are many others.
Twitch is home to hundreds of communities of different sizes. There will be someone out there who sares your interest in the content you choose to stream. As long as you follow your true interests, you're setting up a channel that deserves success.