Stream sniping is a big problem for any streamer with a substantial following, particularly those at the top of Twitch’s popularity polls. But, what actually is stream sniping? If you’ve heard the phrase but never understood it, here’s what you need to know.
Streaming is a big part of modern-day gaming, whether it’s on Twitch, Kick, YouTube or elsewhere, with fans tuning in to watch their favorite content creators play a variety of games on the platform. Not only do these streams enable fans to watch pro players and personalities play their favorite games, but also to interact with them.
But, not all of these interactions are positive, and one of the most frustrating issues streamers have to deal with is stream sniping. This issue can instantly turn even the most entertaining stream into a nightmare, but what exactly is stream sniping?
Contents
- Stream sniping explained
- Can you get banned for stream sniping?
- What is IRL stream sniping?
- How to stop stream snipers?
Stream Sniping explained
To put it simply, stream sniping is when a viewer purposely joins a streamer’s in-game lobby, or ends up in their game by chance, and then uses the opportunity to either derail or assist them in the match.
While certain stream snipers may offer assistance in the form of dropping in-game items or equipment, there are those who purposely try to sabotage the game or stream. From actively hunting down the streamer in-game or simply preventing them from completing a certain task, there are numerous ways stream snipers operate.
Popular Twitch streamers like xQc, Shroud, and NICKMERCS often have to deal with these players on a daily basis. There have been times where streamers like xQc and Tommyinnit have been found guilty of stream sniping others themselves too.
Can you get banned for stream sniping?
While rules on stream sniping may vary between various platforms, Twitch’s Gaming Content Guidelines state:
“Any activity, such as cheating, hacking, botting, or tampering, that gives the account owner an unfair advantage in an online multiplayer game, is prohibited. This also includes exploiting another broadcaster’s live broadcast in order to harass them in-game, such as stream sniping.”
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As for the games themselves, it’s difficult for the developers to identify stream sniping, but it is considered a form of cheating by many, even if you’re helping the streamer, as this can be considered collusion.
What is IRL stream sniping?
Unlike virtual stream sniping, in real life stream sniping is incredibly problematic. IRL stream sniping invariably involves viewers actively seeking out the streamer in the real world, instantly breaching their privacy and interrupting the stream.
While IRL stream sniping can often have negative outcomes, there are also times when it can lead to some incredibly wholesome moments. For example, Twitch streamer Melina was left in hysterics after waves of fans hijacked her broadcast.
Others though, have been left terrified, particularly when stream snipers could pose a physical risk to them.
How to stop stream snipers?
While the methods below won’t completely stop stream snipers from entering your game, they can greatly limit the amount you meet.
- Limit the amount of onscreen info that is broadcasted.
- Create a private lobby when purely playing with certain viewers/friends.
- Put a delay on your stream.
- Change your in-game name to one that is different from your Twitch account.
Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to stream any game without the constant sea of stream snipers ruining your experience.