The
end of the year is just a few hours away and it is time to reflect on 2013. I
started watching Twitch.tv earlier this year and have essentially become a
junkie. I generally always have a stream going regardless of the activity I am
doing on my computer. My rating criteria
for ranking streams were: content, quality, interaction, and overall enjoyment.
The following are my:
Top 10 2013 Twitch Steams
10) Tara Babcock http://www.twitch.tv/tarababcock
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TaraBabcock
I would
classify Tara as the Howard Stern of Twitch.TV. You watch her to see what she
is going to say. Be forewarned she has bewbs, is extremely comfortable with her
sexuality and you should expect cleavage. Sex sells, so if you can’t get past
that, this stream won’t be for you. However, Tara is more than just a pretty
face and deep down she is just a geeky dork like most of us. Overall, this is a
fun and entertaining stream with my only critique being at times it feels like
the viewers are just there along for the ride. In my opinion more interaction
with the twitch chat and or viewer/subscriber games will lead to a better
stream.
9.5) Demuslim http://www.twitch.tv/demuslim
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeMusliM
Demuslim is
the person on this list that you’d most like to have a beer with. His charisma,
good looks, and accent (FAP FAP FAP) gravitate viewers to his stream. His entertaining
personality and music selection generally keep them there. I started watching
Twitch.TV for StarCraft 2 streams and Demuslim was one of the first streams I
encountered. Over the months I moved on from SC2 streams so I decided to check
back in yesterday. It was good to see Demuslim engage in random games with
viewers as well as discuss strategy before and after the 1v1 games. If he could
talk while the games were being played (especially in key fights) that would
make for an even better stream. However, I understand the need to focus on the
task at hand. This stream also has limited viewer interaction due to games
taking priority. Generally the queuing times are when Demuslim addresses the
viewers. Overall, great job Demuslim, don’t give up on your E-Sports dream!
9) Bajheera http://www.twitch.tv/bajheera
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bajheerawow
Three words: GETSHIT ON! This is essentially a WoW PvP only stream. I think WoW provides
more of an opportunity to goof around and thus this stream is quite enjoyable. Like
Demuslim’s stream there is a lack of viewer interaction while matches are being
played. However, Bajheera’s matches are generally shorter, which provides more
opportunities for viewers to interact. I hope by now everyone is realizing my
emphasis on the viewer interaction aspect as I believe it really helps the
stream in every way possible. Viewers want to feel connected and establish
relationships with streamers. When viewers have a sense of belonging they are
more likely to return back to the stream. These first three mentioned streamers
do interact with viewers but with a little more interaction they each would rank
higher on my list.
8) Lynnee http://www.twitch.tv/lynnee
This is another stream where cleavage is generally present. LIKE
OMG?!?!?! That being said I believe Lynnee is more successful than the others
at taking care of her viewers. From what I’ve seen this is strictly a WoW
stream but the continual interaction that viewers receive from Lynnee makes it
more than that. Also, Lynnee willingly Battle Grounds with viewers and invests
back into her stream. When she receives a donation, instead of keeping the
entire donation, a portion of the donation goes towards giveaways (all
streamers should do this). Investing back into your stream really goes a long
way with your viewers. My only critique is for her to set up a stream schedule
and maybe branch out to some other games from time to time.
7) TGN (DBZ Content) http://www.twitch.tv/tgn
Forums: http://forum.tgn.tv/
What do you get when you take the DBZ Budokai game engine, a passionate
community that builds stat sheets for each character, and a tournament where
the computer squares off against each character/team? I’ll tell you what,
BAD-ASS-ERY! If you are part of the newer generation you grew up with DBZ and thoroughly
enjoyed the hell out of it. Now days, it is kind of like pro wrestling where
you notice inconsistencies ( My perspective now: DBZ shows were 90% powering up
to 10% action). Regardless, the nostalgia for this content is there and the
viewer interaction is there as well (with the community building the
characters). The only downside to this stream is I have no idea when these
matches are going to air. It says Saturday 5PM EST but I’m pretty sure I’ve
seen it on other times. If you haven’t seen this stream, check it out. The
action and commentary can be hysterical at times. I always leave with a smile,
which is the sign of a good stream.
6) Iateyourpie http://www.twitch.tv/iateyourpie
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Iateyourp1e
Speaking of nostalgia this stream has
plenty of it. I was first attracted to this stream via a Super Mario RPG speed
run. I can honestly say that SMRPG is one of the games I’ve played like 20
times and never finished. Pie does a good job of interacting with his viewers
and has a cool UI that lets everyone know what is going on. The goals and times
that he is competing against are present so everyone can be involved. Pie has
also diversified himself with Megaman X2 and Paper Mario play throughs. The
other night he had Super Smash Bro’s 64 computer tournament that was highly
entertaining. If you are looking for an old school game stream and a good time,
drop by as this stream generally delivers.
5) Kate Strong http://www.twitch.tv/kateedge
Twitter: https://twitter.com/katestrong7
I think this says it all. If you ask
me, Kate is the best kept secret on Twitch.TV. I’ve rarely seen her at 100 or
more viewers but hopefully that will change. Her stream is pretty much a CS:GO
only stream but her personality and continual interaction with viewers really
makes for good times. Kate enjoys wine and beer and some of the nights she
cracks open a beverage or two and plays viewer games with her steam group: http://steamcommunity.com/groups/KatesWinehouse
You can also expect her to play with some CS:GO professionals
as she is kind of a big deal. J For a while she has had internet issues but “allegedly” that
is being corrected within the next few days. Us viewers look forward to 2014
and Kate’s internet v2.0 and all the shenanigans that are to come.
4.5) Moxie http://www.twitch.tv/moxierawr
Twitter: https://twitter.com/moxietv
I’m not sure
how Moxie does it but this gal is always streaming. She also streams a wide
range of games and content. Her passion for gaming and E-Sports is refreshing
to see and I also applaud her weekly stream schedule that she puts together
(please streamers start doing this!). This is very helpful for me as a viewer
as I am able to get my personal things taken care of and still manage to tune
in when the content I enjoy is being streamed. Like most streamers, Moxie has a
second monitor is always interacting with the chat. She also participates in viewer
games and giveaways each week. Moxie is also diligent in posting recaps of her
streams so if you happen to miss a stream, you can still see it later. This
hardcore-gamer chick deserves some more recognition… Go watch her stream!
4) RedDog http://www.twitch.tv/reddogtv
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stingreddog
This is a Natural Selection 2 stream.
For those of you that don’t know, Natural Selection is game that combines FPS
and RTS. It is aliens vs. marines and I implore all of you to tune in sometime.
The thing that really propels me to watch this stream is the passion that
RedDog has. This guy devotes countless hours into promoting the scene and
showcasing NS2 competitive play. Just about every match is recapped and
uploaded to youtube and the guy does all of this from his home. His efforts are
really admirable and I wish him the ultimate amount of success. For the 2014 I
would recommend creating small videos that can be played prior to a match that
go over the key points of the map. Also another video explaining the rules of
the game, how each side obtains upgrades, and the overall objectives. I believe
most of the leagues that stream on twitch need to start doing this as a major
goal for each league should be to generate new viewers. Example: Like this butshorter if possible.
RedDog keep up the great work!
3) Fighting Game
Tournaments http://www.twitch.tv/capcomfighters
This isn’t the only stream to showcase fighting game tournaments but it
was the only one I could find at the time of writing this blog. What is truly
impressive regarding these streams is that I am not a fighting game enthusiast and
yet every time a big tournament is on Twitch, I get sucked in. The passion and
skill showcased on these streams make for exciting programs. The thing I’ve
learned watching these streams is never count a competitor out. The come backs
are always looming around the corner and when they do arrive, they are amazing.
My only critique for these streams is I’d like to see some more interaction
with the chat by the hosts/casters while these streams are going, however I
understand the chaotic environment they are broadcasting from.
2) Riot Games http://www.twitch.tv/riotgames
This powerhouse essentially sets the standard for how tournaments and
streams should be run. I could name all the things they do right but I’d rather
highlight a few areas. The giveaways for best tweets during broadcasts are
great for audience participation. I also believe the team at Riot is very near
to ESPN quality broadcasts. I believe with a few tweaks and a continual
determination to improve, 2014 could be the year E-Sports becomes prime time.
My first suggestion is actually one of my previous blogs: Suitup! Secure that last button and synch up those ties. If your championship takes
place in the Staples Center, you need to be looking like you belong there. My
second bit of critique is similar to what was said in RedDog’s review. The
content needs to be scaled back so people who are first time viewers are able
to understand the game, rules and objective. The LCS was aired in public venues
this year and there is no better opportunity to obtain new viewers.
AND THE BEST STREAM OF 2013 IS???..........
Well, I couldn’t fully decide on one.
Well, I couldn’t fully decide on one.
The following two selections are
females who attempt to attract viewers by content rather than looks. They both
are extremely attractive and could definitely take measures to “enhance” these
aspects, but they have decided to stream a classy and enjoyable stream. I would
also like to make say in general, from my experiences watching streams, females
tend to interact and appreciate their viewers more. As stated numerous times, this
makes for a more enjoyable stream. Men, prove me wrong this next year, I’ll be
watching!
1.5) Julia_TV http://www.twitch.tv/julia_tv
Derpy
Pigions, ASSEMBLE! I promise you, if you watch this stream you will laugh and
smile. Julia just has this amazing personality that comes across very well on
stream. Her derpyness (soon to be a word) and commentary while playing games
are priceless. Her mods help keep the stream chat free of tools. Guys, you aren’t
Ron Burgundy and the pick-up line “I want to be on you” is not going to work
(if you remember it didn’t even work for Ron). Come enjoy the stream for what
it is; a romping good time filled with laughs and smiles. Julia plays a wide
variety of games and she would have been ranked number 1 if it weren’t for her
missing a lot of time lately. Girl, I know you just started back up at work and
all but you need to get yourself a stream schedule!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dizzykitten7
If I remember correctly Dizzy started
streaming in August or September of this year and she already has a massive
following (400 to 500 viewers for each stream). There is only one way a
streamer can achieve this, being unique and awesome. Dizzy prides herself on a
fun and classy stream and the ban hammer frequently comes out when the tools
show up and attempt to objectify her. She isn’t worried about losing a viewer;
she is more concerned with the quality of the stream and chat. This very
admiring and I hope she continues to operate in this manner. Dizzy plays quite
a few games but the main ones are WoW (where she will play with viewers), Binding
of Isaac, and Super Hexagon. Subscribers areawarded dolphins, swearing resultsin T-Rex’s, DOUBLEREX, Dizzy layingthe law, and rejoicingat winning! Dizzy always ends her streams with Q/A’s where viewers are able
to ask random stuff. The most appealing things about this stream are Dizzy’s
patience/involvement with her audience, her appreciation of subscribers, donators,
and followers, and her down to earth nature/attitude. She makes you feel
welcome and like other streams makes you laugh and smile. Congratulations
Dizzy, you rock and I look forward to the future streams.
Well, that’s all folks… Disagree with
me?!?! Think I should check out your stream? Leave a comment below!
Thank you for your time. I’m hoping to
write a CS:GO/Gaming related blog once a week.
- Jeremy ‘McCl0udY’ Muller
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