Showing posts with label Lists. Show all posts
Friday, August 11, 2023

Chat Safety 101: How to Ban Dodgy ASCII Text on Twitch!

How to Block Braille Spam and ASCII Art in Twitch Chat (2026 Guide)

Twitch chat is a lively place, but some users spam with Braille characters (those special Unicode symbols like ⣿ or ⠿) to create annoying ASCII-style art or bypass normal filters. These messages are hard to read, clutter chat, and ruin the experience for everyone.

block terms and phrases on twitch

In this updated 2026 guide, we show you the fastest way to block these characters using Twitch’s built-in tools so your chat stays clean and welcoming.

Step 1: Open Your Creator Dashboard

  • Go to www.twitch.tv and log in
  • Click your profile picture in the top-right corner
  • Select Creator Dashboard

Step 2: Go to Moderation Settings

  • In the left sidebar, click Settings
  • Then click Moderation

Step 3: Add Blocked Terms and Phrases

  • Scroll down to the section called Blocked Terms and Phrases
  • In the text box, type or paste the Braille characters you want to block
  • Click Add

You can add one term at a time. Twitch allows up to 1,000 blocked terms, so you do not have to add every single Braille character — just the ones commonly used for spam.

Recommended Braille Characters to Block (Most Effective)

Here are the most commonly spammed ones. Copy and paste them one by one:

⣿ ⣿ ⠿ ⠋ ⠙ ⠹ ⠸ ⠼ ⠴ ⠦ ⠧ ⠇ ⠏ ⠟ ⠞ ⠾ ⠽ ⠻ ⠫ ⠪ ⠩ ⠨ ⠧ ⠦ ⠥ ⠤ ⠣ ⠢ ⠡ ⠠ ⣿

Pro tip: Start with the most common one: (full Braille block). Most spam uses this or a few variations.

Step 4: Adjust AutoMod Level for Extra Protection

  • In the same Moderation settings, find AutoMod Controls
  • Set the moderation level to Medium or High depending on how strict you want to be
  • Turn on Block Hyperlinks if you want to stop link spam too

Pro Tips for Cleaner Chat in 2026

  • Use a bot like Nightbot or StreamElements alongside AutoMod — they can catch even more patterns
  • Train your moderators to use the /timeout or /ban commands quickly when spam slips through
  • Regularly review your Blocked Terms list and add new spam patterns as they appear
  • Combine this with a clear chat rules message pinned in your channel

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need to block every single Braille character?

No. Blocking the most common ones (especially ⣿) stops 95% of the spam. Adding all 256 is usually overkill.

Does this block normal users who might use Braille?

Very rarely. Legitimate users almost never type full Braille blocks in chat. It mainly catches trolls and bots.

Can viewers still see the blocked messages?

No. Messages containing blocked terms are automatically hidden from everyone in your chat.

Final Thoughts

Blocking Braille and ASCII art spam is one of the quickest ways to keep your Twitch chat friendly and readable. With Twitch’s built-in Blocked Terms feature, you can stop this annoyance in under two minutes.

Take a few minutes today to add the most common characters and adjust your AutoMod level. Your community will thank you for a cleaner, more enjoyable chat experience.

If you notice new spam patterns appearing, drop them in the comments below and I will update the recommended list.

Related: How to Block Words on Twitch

Happy streaming and happy moderating!

Thursday, August 10, 2023

chat rules examples

Best Twitch Chat Rules Examples for 2026 (Copy-Paste Ready + Pro Setup Guide)

Creating clear Twitch chat rules is one of the smartest things any streamer can do. Good rules keep your chat positive, reduce moderation workload, and help new viewers feel welcome right away.

In this complete 2026 guide, you will find ready-to-use Twitch chat rule examples, a professional copy-paste template, tips on how to display the rules on stream, and step-by-step instructions on how to set them up in your Creator Dashboard.

Why Every Streamer Needs Strong Chat Rules

Well-written rules reduce spam, prevent arguments, protect your community, and make moderation easier for you and your mods. They also show new viewers that your channel is a safe and friendly place.

Complete Twitch Chat Rules Template (Copy & Paste Ready)

Here is a professional, battle-tested set of rules you can copy directly into your stream overlay, panels, or pinned chat message:

Core Twitch Chat Rules

  1. Be Respectful – No hate speech, harassment, slurs, or personal attacks.
  2. No Spamming – Avoid excessive caps, repeated messages, emotes, or symbols.
  3. Stay On Topic – Keep chat related to the stream and the streamer’s content.
  4. No Self-Promotion – Do not post your own links, channels, or socials without permission.
  5. No Spoilers – Never spoil games, movies, or shows unless the streamer says it’s okay.
  6. No Backseating – Do not give unsolicited gameplay advice unless the streamer asks.
  7. Respect Moderators – Follow instructions from mods immediately and respectfully.
  8. Be Inclusive – Use kind and inclusive language. No discrimination of any kind.
  9. No Trolling – Do not intentionally provoke or upset others.
  10. No Begging – Do not beg for subs, bits, follows, or raids.
  11. Keep It English – Primary chat should be in English for moderation and inclusivity.
  12. No Politics or Religion – Keep the chat focused on gaming and fun.

How to Display Your Chat Rules on Stream

  • Pin the rules in chat (use a bot command like !rules)
  • Add a clean rules panel on your channel page
  • Show the rules on your stream overlay or starting soon screen
  • Have your bot automatically post the rules every 30–60 minutes

How to Set Up Chat Rules in Twitch (2026 Step-by-Step)

  1. Go to www.twitch.tv and log in
  2. Click your profile picture → Creator Dashboard
  3. In the left menu, click Settings
  4. Click Moderation
  5. Scroll down to the Chat Rules section
  6. Click Edit and paste or type your rules
  7. Click Save

Your rules will now appear automatically when viewers open the chat rules dropdown.

Pro Tips for Better Chat Moderation in 2026

  • Keep rules short and easy to read (10–12 rules maximum)
  • Use positive language (“Be respectful” instead of just “No hate”)
  • Review and update your rules every few months
  • Make sure all your moderators know and follow the same rules
  • Use AutoMod + Blocked Terms for extra protection against spam
  • Consider creating a separate !rules command with Nightbot or StreamElements

Frequently Asked Questions

How many rules should I have?

Most successful channels use 8–12 rules. Too many and viewers stop reading them.

Should I make rules stricter for bigger channels?

Yes. As your channel grows, you usually need slightly stricter rules to maintain quality chat.

Can I add my own custom rules?

Absolutely. The template above is a starting point - customize it to match your community’s vibe.

Final Thoughts

Strong, clear Twitch chat rules are one of the easiest ways to build a healthy, fun, and loyal community. They save you hours of moderation time and help new viewers feel safe and welcome from the very first message.

Take a few minutes right now to copy the template above, customize it, and add it to your channel. Your chat (and your moderators) will thank you.

Need help customizing your rules or setting up a bot command? Drop your channel type or style in the comments below and I’ll help you create the perfect set of rules.

Happy streaming and happy moderating!

Thursday, March 16, 2023

IRL Backpack gear

Imagine stepping out into the world with your camera rolling live, chatting directly with your audience as city streets, nature trails, or bustling events unfold around you. No studio lights or fixed setups. Just pure, real-time adventure. That’s the thrill of IRL streaming, and in 2026, the right backpack setup makes it feel effortless and professional.

Peak Design IRL Backpack

Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up your mobile streams, a thoughtfully packed IRL streaming backpack keeps your gear safe, organized, and ready for hours on the move. The specific pieces you choose depend on your budget, the kind of content you create, and how long you plan to stay live. But certain essentials have become standards across the creator community.

Building Blocks of a Reliable IRL Streaming Backpack

Camera: Compact, Stable, and High-Quality

A great camera is non-negotiable for crisp, engaging footage that keeps viewers hooked. In 2026, compactness and built-in stabilization win out over bulky setups for most IRL streamers. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 remains a favorite for its pocket-sized design, 4K video, excellent low-light performance, and three-axis gimbal that smooths out your steps without extra gear. For creators wanting more creative control, the Sony ZV-E10 series or full-frame options like the Sony A7 IV deliver stunning detail and interchangeable lenses, though they add a bit more weight. Action cams such as the latest GoPro or Insta360 models also shine when you need rugged durability and wide-angle views.

Microphone: Clear Audio That Cuts Through the Noise

Video might grab attention, but great audio keeps people watching. Wireless systems have taken over for mobility. Popular choices include the Rode Wireless Pro for reliable, broadcast-quality sound or compact options like the DJI Mic 2 that pair seamlessly with your camera. Shotgun mics such as the Rode VideoMic series or the Sennheiser MKE 600 still work well when mounted directly on the camera for directional pickup that reduces street noise.

Power Management: Batteries That Last All Day

Nothing kills a stream faster than dead gear. High-capacity power banks are essential. Look for 27,000mAh+ models with Power Delivery fast charging, such as the latest Anker Prime series. Many streamers carry two or three banks and use smart distribution to keep the camera, modem, and phone topped up. Pro tip: Choose packs with pass-through charging so you can top them up on the go without stopping the stream.

Backpack: The Foundation That Holds It All Together

Your backpack needs to carry everything comfortably while protecting sensitive electronics. The Peak Design Everyday Backpack continues to earn praise for its versatile dividers, quick-access pockets, and weather-resistant build.

Stabilization: Steady Shots on the Move

Shaky footage is a viewer turn-off. Many modern cameras like the Osmo Pocket 3 include built-in gimbals, but for extra versatility, a lightweight Joby GorillaPod or the compact DJI Osmo Mobile series lets you mount and steady your setup quickly.

Lighting: Brighten Up Any Scene

Good light makes a huge difference, especially in mixed indoor-outdoor or evening streams. Compact LED panels like the Lume Cube 2.0 clip onto your rig and offer adjustable color temperature and brightness without draining your batteries too quickly.

Other Essentials

Fast memory cards, quality cables, and a small toolkit for quick fixes complete your kit.

Staying Connected: Mobile Hotspots and Multi-SIM Bonding

Reliable internet is the backbone of any live stream. The LiveU Solo remains popular because it aggregates up to four SIM cards from different carriers, creating one stable, high-bandwidth connection. Other strong options include the Teradek Bond and Peplink MAX Transit routers.

Practical Tips for Building and Using Your Setup

Start simple and scale up. Test your full rig at home before hitting the streets. Weight distribution matters for comfort during long streams. With the right setup, you can focus entirely on creating great content live from anywhere.

Disclosure: We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which allows us to earn a commission through qualifying purchases made using our affiliate links on this post.

Thursday, December 13, 2018

How to get free game keys sponsor for your twitch stream!

Unlock Free Game Keys and Sponsorships: The Ultimate 2026 Guide for Streamers and Content Creators

As a streamer or YouTube creator, scoring free game keys isn't just a nice perk - it's a powerful way to keep your content fresh, engage your audience, and open doors to bigger opportunities with game developers. In 2026, the competition is fiercer than ever, but the right platforms make it easier for legitimate creators to connect directly with publishers who are eager for authentic coverage.

These specialized services act as matchmakers. They verify your channels by linking your Twitch, YouTube, TikTok, and social accounts, pulling real data on your audience size, engagement, and content history. This screening process helps cut out fake accounts and ensures developers are sending keys to creators who will actually deliver value. The more you stream, post, and grow your following, the more opportunities come your way.

Here are the key platforms I rely on regularly to fuel my Twitch channel with new titles. I've updated this list with the latest info for 2026, including some important platform consolidations.

1. Keymailer.co

Keymailer remains one of the leading game key distribution platforms, connecting over 55,000 accredited gaming influencers with publishers and developers. It's perfect for discovering new releases, requesting keys, and even participating in creator programs. Publishers list their games, and creators like you can browse and apply based on your niche.

Keymailer frontpage

Pro tip: Get accredited to stand out - it signals to publishers that you're an active, genuine creator.

2. Noiz.gg

Noiz.gg offers key distribution along with fun monetization opportunities through quests and campaigns. It's a vibrant platform that helps creators earn while engaging their communities with brand partnerships in gaming and entertainment.

Noiz.gg

3. Terminals.io

Terminals.io is a robust key distribution and PR platform with access to over 29,000 verified media, streamers, and YouTubers. Developers use it to get games in front of the right eyes efficiently, while creators can request keys and stay updated on upcoming releases.

Terminals.io frontpage

4. Gamesight.io

Gamesight.io excels in targeted key distribution and creator programs. They've paid out millions to creators and distributed hundreds of thousands of keys. It's ideal for building relationships with AAA and indie studios through structured campaigns.

Gamesight frontpage

5. Xsolla Partner Network

Xsolla's Partner Network is performance-driven, offering game keys, affiliate programs, and sponsorship opportunities. It's great for creators looking to monetize through promotions and earn while playing. The platform has grown even stronger through strategic integrations.

Xsolla Influencer platform

Note: Arsenal.gg and Rainmaker.gg Integration

Arsenal.gg evolved into Rainmaker.gg and has now been fully integrated into the Xsolla Partner Network. This consolidation brings together analytics, key distribution, and powerful creator tools under one unified platform. If you were using Arsenal or Rainmaker before, your accounts and opportunities are now managed seamlessly through Xsolla.

Arsenal.gg (now part of Xsolla)

Pro Tips to Maximize Your Success

  • Complete your profile thoroughly: Link all your channels and socials for accurate verification and better game matching.
  • Be selective and consistent: Request games that fit your audience and deliver high-quality streams or videos promptly.
  • Track your metrics: Many platforms provide analytics - use them to understand what works and grow your channel.
  • Build relationships: Positive interactions can lead to repeat opportunities and exclusive sponsorships.

These platforms have helped me tremendously in keeping my content pipeline full. If you're serious about growing as a content creator, sign up for a few and start exploring what's available today.

Know of any other great services not listed here? Drop a comment below or reach out - I'm always on the lookout for new ways to support the streaming community!

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Moderator Chat Commands List

Listed here are all the various chat commands moderators can do on Twitch.tv!
  • Timeout
    /timeout username seconds reason
  • Ban
    /ban username
  • Unban
    /unban username
  • Subscriber Only Chat
    /subscribers
    This room is now in subscribers-only mode.

    /subscribersoff
    This room is no longer in subscribers-only mode.
  • R9K - attempts to filters out copy, repetitive text
    /r9kbeta
    This room is now in r9k mode.

    /r9kbetaoff
    This room is no longer in r9k mode.
  • Slowmode
    /slow 60
    This room is now in slow mode. You may send messages every 60 seconds.
    You can change the 60 to how many seconds you use the slow mode to be.

    /slowoff
    This room is no longer in slow mode.
  • Emote Only mode
    /emoteonly
    This room is now in emote-only mode.

    /emoteonlyoff
    This room is no longer in emote-only mode.
  • Follower-Only Chat
    /followers 5m
    This room is in 5 minute followers-only mode. Follow to join the community.
    Note: You can set it to 0 minutes or to a maximum of 3 months.
     

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Twitch Staff on reddit list

Quick list of twitch staff that are active on the subreddit for twitch.tv. 


Twitch Staff on reddit list:


optimizeprime
CEO
https://www.reddit.com/user/optimizeprime

djWHEAT
Director of Programming
http://www.reddit.com/user/djWHEAT

Xangold
Engineering Team / Support
http://www.reddit.com/user/Xangold

FishStix1
Twitch Staff / Esports
http://www.reddit.com/user/FishStix1

hbokhari
Partnerships
http://www.reddit.com/user/hbokhari

chhopsky
Network Engineer
http://www.reddit.com/user/chhopsky

Pugget
Network / Tech
http://www.reddit.com/user/Pugget

alephprime
Team VOD
http://www.reddit.com/user/alephprime

misterslin
http://www.reddit.com/user/misterslin

slimscsi
http://www.reddit.com/user/slimscsi

Mucx
Design
http://www.reddit.com/user/Mucx

BlackLiteAttack
Partnerships Associate
http://www.reddit.com/user/BlackLiteAttack

IrelandOfEndor
Software Engineer
http://www.reddit.com/user/IrelandOfEndor

kixelated
http://www.reddit.com/user/kixelated

x410
http://www.reddit.com/user/x410

spla08
Community Manager of Education
http://www.reddit.com/user/spla08

b3george
Admin / Support
http://www.reddit.com/user/b3george

heresiarch
Data Scientst
http://www.reddit.com/user/heresiarch 

S0N0S
Moderation Lead
http://www.reddit.com/user/S0N0S

filmsushi
Video Ingest and Transcoding
http://www.reddit.com/user/filmsushi

BlitzTech
Web Playback Manager
http://www.reddit.com/user/BlitzTech

Equint
Video Player Engineer
http://www.reddit.com/user/Equint

nerolabs
Director of Engineering
http://www.reddit.com/user/nerolabs

flgr
Viewcount Lead
http://www.reddit.com/user/flgr

AcenthTwitch
Desktop Developer
http://www.reddit.com/user/AcenthTwitch

tdrobbo
Senior Director of Product
http://www.reddit.com/user/tdrobbo

Mowseler
Desktop Support
http://www.reddit.com/user/Mowseler

eviegleep
Community Manager
http://www.reddit.com/user/eviegleep

Use the list to review what the staff have been chatting about on the Twitch subreddit. Many times it gives some insights on current problems, future updates and key platform changes that are not generally announced.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Banned Words & Domains list for Twitch.tv by DaOpa

DaOpa's Banned Words & Domain list for twitch.tv channels



Here is the currently banned words list I use for my twitch.tv channel!

Monday, October 19, 2015

3rd party aggregators for Twitch.tv!

List of 3rd party aggregator sites utilizing twitch.tv's api for showcasing streams, stats and other tidbits.

Lets start out with some of the aggregators that include stats and other information. Note in all the various section with BOLD, you can swap out my channel and insert any twitch channel.
Saturday, October 17, 2015

Best & Worse months for streaming

Best and Worst Months for Streaming on Twitch: Your 2026 Guide to Timing Ad Revenue Like a Pro

Ever wondered why your Twitch ad payouts feel like they triple in some months while barely moving in others? You are not imagining it. Advertising dollars flow into the platform on a very predictable schedule as brands chase the moments when viewers are most likely to open their wallets. For affiliates earning a cut of that revenue, knowing these seasonal swings can help you schedule smarter, stream harder when it counts, and build your channel during the quieter times.

Best and worst months for Twitch streaming chart showing ad spending seasonality

The chart above breaks it down at a glance. Red months are your revenue rockets — crank up the streams, run those ad triggers, and watch the earnings climb. Yellow months are perfect for stepping back from marathon sessions and focusing on content that lives beyond Twitch. Here is the full updated list based on the latest ad spend patterns, viewer trends, and platform data through early 2026.

Months with the Highest Ad Spending (Red Zone — Stream Heavy)

  • December
  • November
  • October
  • June

Months with Average Ad Spending (Steady but Not Peak)

  • March
  • May
  • August
  • September

Months with the Lowest Ad Spending (Yellow Zone — Build and Promote)

  • January
  • February
  • April
  • July

Why does this pattern repeat every year? Advertisers time their biggest pushes around when people actually shop. The holiday season is obvious — gift buying, Black Friday leftovers, and year-end budgets get spent fast. October kicks off the rush with Halloween campaigns and early holiday teasing. November and December are pure gold as brands compete for attention during the busiest shopping window. June gets a boost from summer vacation vibes, back-to-school prep starting early, and big gaming events that pull in viewers and sponsors alike.

In the gaming world this lines up perfectly with new releases. Major titles still cluster in the fall and holiday window because that is when families and gift-givers are hunting for the next big thing. Summer also sees a wave of announcements and launches that keep June lively. Knowing your favorite games release schedule lets you plan ahead instead of scrambling last minute.

Recent platform numbers back this up. Watch time and concurrent viewers stay relatively stable year-round, but ad rates climb noticeably in the fourth quarter. Streamers who track their own analytics often see CPMs double or more during November and December compared to the post-holiday slump in January and February. July can feel quiet too as people head outdoors, which is why it lands in the lower tier alongside April.

How to Use This Calendar to Grow Your Channel and Earnings

Treat the red months as your money months. Stream your regular schedule plus extra sessions if you can. Enable ad breaks consistently and focus on games or categories that are trending. The extra impressions add up fast when brands are spending.

Yellow months are your secret weapon for long-term growth. Step away from pure live hours and pour energy into YouTube clips, TikTok highlights, Instagram Reels, and Discord community building. Cross-promote like crazy so your audience is bigger and more loyal when the high-spend months roll around again. Many successful streamers say the off-season content they create in January or July becomes the fuel that carries them through December.

Here are a few practical tips that actually work:

  • Mark your calendar with major game launch dates right now. Sites like IGN or Steam keep updated lists — plan your biggest streams around those drops.
  • Watch for events like TwitchCon (usually fall) or big esports tournaments that spike interest in specific categories.
  • Track your own revenue dashboard each month. Patterns become obvious after just one full year.
  • Keep a consistent core schedule year-round. Viewers stick with creators who show up reliably, even when ad money is tight.
  • Diversify. While ads are great in peak months, build subs, bits, and sponsorships so low months do not sting as much.

Bottom line? Twitch rewards the streamers who play the long game and understand the business side. Bookmark this guide, sync it with your content calendar, and you will stop wondering why some months feel easier. You will already know — and you will be ready to make the most of every single one.

Monday, August 31, 2015

chat bots, loyalty bots

Listed here are most of the popular chat room bots, loyalty point systems for twitch.tv!

Ankhbot - features commands, timers, quote system, desktop dashboard, giveaway system, sfx system, currency system, betting system, poll system, Heist Minigame, song request system, (link, caps and symbol protection)



Moobot - features web based dashboard, customization, spam filters, commands, polls, giveaways, song requests, notifications



Nightbot - features dashboard, spam protection, custom commands, nightbot commands, timers, (regulars / subscriber features), song requests, giveaways



Deepbot - features desktop dashboard, user database / viewer log, raffles, commands, music, polls, mini games, betting, notification 

LoyaltyBot - javascript / node based loyalty bot.

SpottyBot -  is a bot for windows / mac which plays music from your desktop spotify application

WinterBot - open source bot

GeoBot - features commands

Xanbot - features commands

ModBot - is a desktop loyalty bot.