Discord is adding built-in gameplay streaming to its voice channels

Discord will add a new streaming feature to its chat-and-other-stuff software next week called Go Live that will enable users to share their gameplay with up to ten people in a voice channel.

Video streams will run at 720p and 30 fps, with higher quality options available to Discord Nitro subscribers: Nitro Classic users will be able to go up to 1080p at 60 fps, while full Nitro subscriptions support up to 4K. Nitro users can also "boost" a server to improve the quality of the stream.

Go Live obviously isn't meant to compete with full-on streaming services like Twitch or Mixer. Instead, the idea is to provide a simple and more intimate "virtual co-op couch viewing experience." It works the same as Discord voice channels currently do—enter the channel and start talking—except with video.

Go Live will go live on August 15.

Andy has been gaming on PCs from the very beginning, starting as a youngster with text adventures and primitive action games on a cassette-based TRS80. From there he graduated to the glory days of Sierra Online adventures and Microprose sims, ran a local BBS, learned how to build PCs, and developed a longstanding love of RPGs, immersive sims, and shooters. He began writing videogame news in 2007 for The Escapist and somehow managed to avoid getting fired until 2014, when he joined the storied ranks of PC Gamer. He covers all aspects of the industry, from new game announcements and patch notes to legal disputes, Twitch beefs, esports, and Henry Cavill. Lots of Henry Cavill.