banner with the text: free games to stream on twitch, some game logos are also included

Best Free Games To Stream on Twitch in 2024

We’ve compiled an extensive list of popular free games to stream on Twitch, complete with key metrics like average viewership and the number of channels streaming each game. These statistics, sourced from the Twitch tracker website, were accurate at the time of writing. For real-time data on a specific game, you can visit their site and search for the game to get the latest statistics. Now, let’s explore the most popular free games to stream on Twitch.

league of legends banner

Average Viewers: 150,000

Average Channels Live: 3000

League of Legends, a multiplayer online battle arena game, has been free-to-play since its 2009 release. Known for its strategic, team-based gameplay, it involves players choosing unique champions with distinct abilities. A major force in esports, its World Championship attracts millions of viewers. Notably, it maintains popularity through continuous updates and the introduction of new champions, keeping the game dynamic and allowing the streamer to keep their audience engaged on Twitch.

valorant banner

Average Viewers: 75,000

Average Channels Live: 4200

Valorant, a tactical first-person shooter developed by Riot Games, has been free-to-play since its launch in June 2020. It combines precise gunplay with unique character abilities, where players assume the role of “agents” with special skills. Known for its strategic depth and high skill ceiling, Valorant quickly became a favorite in the streaming community. Its competitive gameplay and regular updates, including new agents and maps, keep the game fresh and exciting for both streamers and viewers on Twitch.

fortnite banner

Average Viewers: 68,000

Average Channels Live: 6500

Fortnite, released in 2017 by Epic Games, rose to fame with its free-to-play Battle Royale mode. It’s known for its unique blend of shooting, building, and survival elements in a colorful and dynamic environment. The game stands out for its frequent updates, themed events, and crossovers with popular culture, keeping the content fresh and engaging. Fortnite’s accessibility and constant evolution have made it a staple in the streaming community, attracting a diverse audience on Twitch.

counter strike 2 banner

Average Viewers: 55,000

Average Channels Live: 1200

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), a tactical first-person shooter, became free-to-play in December 2018, although it was released by Valve in 2012. Renowned for its competitive gameplay and skill-based mechanics, CS:GO is a cornerstone of the esports scene. The game is famous for its iconic maps, precision shooting, and strategic depth. Its transition to a free-to-play model, along with regular updates and community-driven content, has helped maintain its popularity among streamers and viewers on Twitch.

dota 2 banner

Average Viewers: 50,000

Average Channels Live: 1000

Dota 2, developed by Valve Corporation, is a premier multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that has been free-to-play since its release in 2013. Known for its complex strategy and deep gameplay mechanics, Dota 2 features a vast array of unique heroes and a highly competitive environment. It’s renowned for hosting The International, one of the largest prize pool esports tournaments globally. Dota 2’s constant updates and balance changes, along with a dedicated community, keep it a popular choice for streaming on Twitch.

apex legends banner

Average Viewers: 36,000

Average Channels Live: 2700

Apex Legends, a free-to-play battle royale game by Respawn Entertainment, launched in February 2019. It stands out with its fast-paced gameplay, unique character abilities, and squad-based dynamics. Set in the Titanfall universe, it combines traditional shooting elements with futuristic features and heroes known as ‘Legends’. Apex Legends is known for its frequent content updates, including new Legends and map changes, which keep the game fresh and engaging for both players and streamers on Twitch.

teamfight tactics banner

Average Viewers: 31,000

Average Channels Live: 350

Teamfight Tactics, a free-to-play auto battler by Riot Games, released in 2019, is a spinoff of League of Legends. It combines strategy and luck, where players build and upgrade teams to battle against others. Known for its regularly updated content and diverse character pool, the game maintains a strong presence on Twitch for its strategic depth.

path of exile banner

Average Viewers: 20,000

Average Channels Live: 300

Path of Exile, a free-to-play action RPG developed by Grinding Gear Games, launched in 2013. Known for its complex character customization and dark fantasy world, it offers deep gameplay with a vast skill tree and regular expansions. Its engaging end-game content and community-focused updates make it a popular choice for streamers on Twitch, appealing to fans of intricate and evolving RPG systems.

hearthstone banner

Average Viewers: 16,000

Average Channels Live: 150

Hearthstone, Blizzard Entertainment’s free-to-play digital card game launched in 2014, is known for its approachable yet deep strategy gameplay. Set in the Warcraft universe, it features turn-based card matches between two opponents. Renowned for its regular expansions, which introduce new cards and mechanics, Hearthstone remains a favorite on Twitch for its strategic play and the ever-evolving meta that keeps the game fresh and engaging.

genshin impact banner

Average Viewers: 11,000

Average Channels Live: 1000

Genshin Impact, a free-to-play action RPG by miHoYo, launched in 2020 and quickly gained popularity for its expansive open world and engaging story. Known for its visually stunning design and elemental-based combat system, the game allows players to explore and battle in a fantasy world. Regular updates with new characters and quests keep Genshin Impact fresh and intriguing, making it a favorite among streamers and viewers on Twitch.

world of tanks banner

Average Viewers: 9000

Average Channels Live: 190

World of Tanks, a free-to-play MMO developed by Wargaming, released in 2010, focuses on tank warfare. Renowned for its detailed tank models and strategic, team-based battles, players engage in large-scale, historical tank combat. Regular updates, including new tanks and maps, along with special events, keep the gameplay engaging. Its blend of strategy, teamwork, and historical elements makes World of Tanks a popular choice for streamers.

rocket league banner

Average Viewers: 7000

Average Channels Live: 800

Rocket League, a unique blend of soccer and vehicular acrobatics by Psyonix, became free-to-play in 2020. Known for its high-energy gameplay and physics-based competition, it’s a favorite for its fast-paced, easy-to-learn yet hard-to-master matches, keeping both players and Twitch audiences engaged.

destiny 2 banner

Average Viewers: 6100

Average Channels Live: 480

Destiny 2, Bungie’s free-to-play online shooter, offers a blend of FPS and MMO elements. Since 2019, players engage in expansive, story-driven missions and cooperative gameplay. Regular expansions and events add depth, making it popular on Twitch for its rich narrative and community-driven activities.

roblox banner

Roblox, a platform more than a single game, allows users to create and play games made by others. Free since its 2006 launch, it’s known for its vast, user-generated content, offering endless variety. Its creativity and community interaction make it a continually fresh experience for streamers. This game’s creative and extensive content makes it an excellent game for playing with Twitch viewers. Through community events and custom games, it offers endless possibilities for engagement.

smite banner

Average Viewers: 3500

Average Channels Live: 180

Smite, a third-person MOBA by Hi-Rez Studios, stands out with its mythological theme. Since 2014, players control gods from various pantheons, engaging in strategic team battles. Regular updates and character additions provide a dynamic experience, making it a popular choice for Twitch streaming

world of warships banner

Average Viewers: 3000

Average Channels Live: 65

World of Warships, a naval warfare MMO by Wargaming, offers a tactical sea combat experience. Since its 2015 release, players navigate historically accurate ships in strategic battles. Regular updates with new ships and modes keep gameplay fresh, attracting Twitch audiences interested in maritime strategy and history.

Average Viewers: 2200

Average Channels Live: 180

Warframe, a free-to-play cooperative shooter by Digital Extremes, blends fast-paced action with sci-fi aesthetics. Since 2013, players engage as powerful Warframes, exploring dynamic worlds and missions. Known for its constant updates and expansive universe, it maintains a strong following on Twitch.

war thunder banner

Average Viewers: 1500

Average Channels Live: 170

War Thunder, a comprehensive military vehicle combat game by Gaijin Entertainment, has been free since 2012. It’s unique for covering air, land, and sea battles with historical accuracy. Regular updates and a vast array of vehicles keep the game appealing for Twitch streamers interested in realistic combat simulations.

paladins banner

Average Viewers: 350

Average Channels Live: 40

Paladins, a team-based shooter with strong MOBA elements by Hi-Rez Studios, became free-to-play in 2018. Known for its character customization and strategy, players choose from a diverse roster of champions. Its frequent updates and balanced gameplay make it a favorite for strategic and competitive streaming on Twitch.

team fortress 2 banner

Average Viewers: 300

Average Channels Live: 40

Team Fortress 2, a team-based shooter by Valve Corporation, set the standard for class-based multiplayer games since going free in 2011. Known for its distinct art style and humor, it offers a variety of game modes and character classes, keeping its content fresh and entertaining for Twitch audiences.

Choosing The Right Game

Having explored the most popular free-to-play games on Twitch, it’s time to decide which one is right for you. Here are some key factors to consider:

    1. Oversaturation: Check the viewership and live channels in each category to understand the level of competition. If a category is oversaturated, your channel might be less visible, especially if it’s not already established. However, even with fierce competition, choosing the right Twitch tags within the category could help boost your viewership.
    2. Enjoyment Levels: It’s crucial to choose a game you’ll enjoy playing for extended periods. Growing on Twitch is a marathon, not a sprint, and streaming games you don’t enjoy can lead to quick burnout.
    3. Audience Appeal: If you already have viewers, ensure they’ll enjoy the new content, especially if it’s different from what you usually stream.
    4. Content Longevity and Update Frequency: Opt for games that offer ongoing content creation potential. Games with regular updates, expansions, or dynamic gameplay can keep your streams fresh and engaging for both you and your audience.

Ultimately, your choice should be a balance between your personal interests and skills, the game’s ability to attract and retain an audience, and the potential to promote your Twitch channel effectively.

Summing Up

Learning how to stream on Twitch is an ongoing, evolving journey, and choosing the right game is often a key factor in setting off in the right direction. Our list of the best free games to stream on Twitch offers a variety of options to match your gaming interests. Additionally, by considering average viewership and live channel statistics, you gain insights into the level of competition you might face. Our brief guide provides essential considerations to help you make an informed decision. Remember, the journey doesn’t end here – you’re always free to experiment with different games as trends evolve on the platform. Keep adapting, and enjoy your streaming adventure!

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Liam Doherty

Liam Doherty comes from game development background, initially exposing him to the world of content creators. In 2017 he decided to dive headfirst into the creators realm, offering solutions for branding and creating better content.

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