Co-Streams & Sidecasting

Co-Streaming

With co-streaming, you can connect with your community around other shared interests beyond what you normally stream. By adding your facecam and commentary on top of licensed premium content that is available to co-stream, you can put your unique spin on a special broadcast. Co-streaming is enabled for many special events throughout the year. Conventions like TwitchCon, marathons, events, and award shows can all be available for co-stream on Twitch.

TWITCH TIP:
Co-streaming events may not be permitted by all original rights holders or broadcast channels, and streamers should refer directly to the channel page for specific permissions and restrictions.

Co-Streaming Streamer Strategies:
Research the content prior to your stream. Familiarize yourself with the expected content, any anticipated content warnings, and the length of the program. Make sure the title or broadcast indicates that this is a co-stream. Adding a visual element or disclaimer as an overlay can add clarification for viewers.

Copyright

Copyright considerations related to your own streams also apply when co-streaming. Check the co-streaming broadcast ahead of time to see what is approved and what isn’t. Be ready to hide, remove, or mute any copyrighted music or content that might be displayed.

Unless otherwise specified by the co-streamed event, you are advised not to save, redistribute, or re-upload co-streamed content for viewing at a later time. Do not alter the original broadcast and be mindful of covering any trademarks.

Sidecasting

Sidecasting on Twitch allows streamers to share their real-time reactions and commentary on live events, games, or shows without displaying any visuals or audio from the original content. The focus is entirely on the streamer’s perspective and analysis, while viewers watch the event separately on their own. Sidecasting is typically utilized when an event does not allow co-streaming.

Create a comprehensive experience for viewers by structuring a stream that engages them throughout the entire event. Make time to chat and connect with your community before about your preferred outcomes, predictions, or statistics. After the event, discuss highlights and favorite moments to foster engagement and provide sought-after content.

TWITCH TIP:
Playing a related game leading up to the sidecasting stream and during intermissions expands the potential audience and leaves room for community conversations.

Sidecasting Streamer Strategies:
Streaming sidecasting can be difficult, because (unlike co-streaming) everyone’s attention is focused on their own screens during the action. Your role is to add a unique voice while providing something to passively consume. Listen to your setup before you go live to ensure the broadcast you're sidecasting isn't visible or audible in your stream.

Interaction Inspiration

Your audience wants to interact with you and hear what you have to say. Stay present in your stream by reading your chat, interacting with your community, and providing opportunities for them to be involved. Keep in mind that due to streaming load times and location there may be delays in watch time between what viewers see or hear in your stream.

Develop themed activities that community members can help forge, manipulate, or contribute towards. Set up trivia, rankings across tiers, or create top 10 lists to engage viewers.