How to Stream Nintendo Switch to Discord

Streaming your Nintendo Switch gameplay to Discord is an excellent way to share your gaming adventures with friends. Since the Switch lacks a native Discord app, you’ll need a computer and a video capture card to connect the console and stream. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you set up and stream your Nintendo Switch to Discord.

Part 1: Connecting Your Nintendo Switch to a Video Capture Card

Step 1: Insert Your Switch Into the Dock

• Place your Nintendo Switch into its dock, ensuring the USB-C port is connected securely.
• Disconnect any monitors or TVs connected to the Dock to prevent signals from splitting to unintended displays.

Step 2: Connect the Dock to the Capture Card

• Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDMI Out port on the Dock to the HDMI In port on the video capture card.

Step 3: Connect the Capture Card to Your Computer

• Plug the capture card into your computer using the provided USB cable. Most capture cards include this cable for data transfer.

Step 4: Install Capture Card Software

• Install the software that comes with the capture card (e.g., Elgato Game Capture HD, OBS Studio). Follow the instructions provided in the packaging or on the manufacturer’s website.
• Open the software to ensure the capture card is working and displays the Nintendo Switch screen on your computer.

Step 5: Turn on Your Nintendo Switch

• Press the POWER button on the Switch to turn it on. Verify that your computer’s display shows the Switch screen via the capture card.

Part 2: Setting Up a Video Player Window

Step 1: Download VLC Media Player

• Download and install VLC Media Player from VideoLAN’s official site.

Step 2: Create a VLC Shortcut

1. Open a text editor (e.g., Notepad or TextEdit).
2. Paste the following code into the editor, adjusting it to match your capture card and VLC installation path:perlCopy code"C:\Program Files\VideoLAN\VLC\vlc.exe" dshow:// :dshow-vdev="Game Capture HD60 S (Video) (#01)" :dshow-adev="Game Capture HD60 S (Audio) (#01)" :dshow-aspect-ratio="16:9" :dshow-audio-samplerate=48000 :dshow-audio-channels=2 :live-caching=0 :dshow-fps=60 Replace "Game Capture HD60 S" with your specific capture card’s name as shown in the capture software settings.
3. Save the file as a .txt file, then rename it with a .bat extension for use as a shortcut.

Step 3: Open Capture Device in VLC

1. Open VLC and click Media > Open Capture Device.
2. In the “Capture Mode” drop-down menu, select DirectShow.
3. Choose your capture card in the “Video Device Name” and “Audio Device Name” fields.

Step 4: Customize the Shortcut

• Right-click the VLC shortcut on your desktop and select Properties.
• Paste the code from your text editor into the Target field.
• Save the changes. Double-click the shortcut to automatically launch VLC with the proper settings.

Part 3: Streaming to Discord

Step 1: Open Discord and Join a Server

• Launch Discord and select the server where you want to stream. Ensure you’re part of a voice channel.

Step 2: Join a Voice Channel

• Click on a voice channel under the Voice Channels section to join.

Step 3: Share Your Screen

1. Click Screen at the bottom of the Discord window.
2. Select the Applications tab to see a list of active programs.
3. Choose your VLC player (which should display your Switch gameplay).

Step 4: Adjust Stream Settings

• Set the frame rate and resolution (e.g., 30 FPS and 720p for standard streams or 60 FPS and 1080p for higher quality).
• Click Go Live to start streaming.

Step 5: Stop the Stream

• To end your stream, click the Stop Streaming button (a monitor icon with an X) in the preview thumbnail.

Tips for a Seamless Streaming Experience

1. Ensure a Stable Connection: Use a high-quality HDMI cable and USB connection for your capture card.
2. Monitor Performance: Check your computer’s CPU and GPU usage to avoid lag during the stream.
3. Use a Headset: Minimize background noise by using a headset with a good microphone for Discord communication.
4. Test Before Going Live: Run a test stream to ensure your capture card, VLC, and Discord settings are properly configured.

Streaming Nintendo Switch gameplay to Discord is straightforward with the right tools. A video capture card is essential for a smooth setup unless your computer supports HDMI In. Once configured, you can share your gaming experiences in real-time with friends and communities!