How To Stream Your Desktop And Nonsteam Games With OBS

Streaming your desktop and non-Steam games using OBS (Open Broadcasting Software) is a versatile and powerful way to share your gaming experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set up and stream your desktop and non-Steam games seamlessly.

Setting Up OBS for Streaming

Installing OBS Studio

1. Download and Install OBS Studio: Start by downloading the latest version of OBS Studio from the official OBS website. Follow the installation instructions to install it on your computer.
2. Initial Setup: Once installed, open OBS Studio. If it's your first time using OBS, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the interface and features.

Configuring OBS for Desktop Streaming

1. Adding Display Capture: In the "Sources" section of OBS, click the "+" button to add a new source. Select "Display Capture" to capture your entire desktop. Name the source (e.g., "Desktop") and configure it to capture the display you want to stream.
2. Adjusting Display Capture Settings: In the properties of the display capture source, you can select which display to capture if you have multiple monitors. Ensure that the display you want to stream is selected.

Configuring OBS for Non-Steam Game Streaming

1. Adding Game Capture: For streaming specific games, add a "Game Capture" source. This source allows you to target a specific game window, ensuring only the game is shown in your stream.
2. Configuring Game Capture Settings: When adding a game capture source, you can define the game window to capture. This is particularly useful for non-Steam games that you want to stream without capturing the entire desktop.

Output and Stream Settings

1. Output Settings: Go to the "Settings" menu in OBS and navigate to the "Output" section. Set the keyframe interval to 2, which is required for streaming on platforms like Steam.
2. Stream Settings: In the "Stream" section, select "Custom" as the service. You will need to enter the streaming server settings and stream key, which can be found on the platform you are streaming to (e.g., Steam broadcast page).

Adding Non-Steam Games to Steam for Streaming

Adding Non-Steam Games to Your Steam Library

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam client on your computer.
2. Add Non-Steam Game: Go to "Games" > "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library." This will open a window listing all the games found on your system. Check the box next to the non-Steam game you want to add. If the game is not listed, you can add it manually using the "Browse" button.

Streaming Non-Steam Games via Steam Remote Play

1. Enable Remote Play: Ensure that Steam Remote Play is enabled under "Steam" > "Settings" > "Remote Play".
2. Pair Devices: If streaming to another device, pair the device to the source machine by entering the code that appears on the source machine's screen.
3. Launch and Stream: On the target device, go to your Steam library and find the non-Steam game you added. Instead of a "Play" button, you will see a "Stream" button. Click this to start streaming the game.

Advanced Tips for Streaming Non-Steam Games

Using Moonlight for NVIDIA GPU Users

1. Install Moonlight: If you have an NVIDIA GPU, you can use Moonlight to stream games from your desktop to other devices. Moonlight is available as a flatpak and can be installed on devices like the Steam Deck.
2. Configure Moonlight: Moonlight allows you to stream your entire desktop, making it a universal solution for streaming non-Steam games, including those that use launchers.

Using Parsec for Universal Streaming

1. Install Parsec: Parsec is another solution that streams your entire desktop, making it compatible with any game, including non-Steam titles. It is available for installation on devices like the Steam Deck.
2. Configure Parsec: Parsec provides a simple and effective way to stream games without the need for complex setup or specific game support.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Control Issues with Non-Steam Games

1. Controller Support: Some non-Steam games may not have native controller support, which can cause issues when streaming. You may need to tweak the game's settings or use third-party software to enable controller support.
2. Launcher Issues: Games that use launchers (e.g., Epic Games Launcher) may not work seamlessly with Steam Remote Play. You might need to use alternative streaming methods like Moonlight or Parsec.

Ensuring Optimal Streaming Quality

1. Network Connection: For the best streaming experience, ensure that your source computer is connected to the network via a wired Ethernet connection. If possible, use a wired connection for the target device as well.
2. Device Compatibility: Ensure that all devices are connected to the same local network and that you are logged into the same Steam account on both systems.

By following these steps and tips, you can effectively stream your desktop and non-Steam games using OBS, enhancing your gaming experience and flexibility.