TikQo
On TikTok LIVE, viewers can send virtual gifts. In gift-powered games, these gifts aren't just an animation that pops up on screen; they trigger an event in the game. In this article, we explain how the system works, the concept of "mapping", and how viewers become part of the game.
What is a gift-powered game?
A gift-powered game is a game that changes based on the gifts viewers send during a live stream. The streamer opens the game on their computer, the game connects to the stream and "listens" to every interaction coming in. When a viewer sends a gift, the game detects it and runs a predefined effect.
In these games, it's not just gifts that matter; free interactions can play a part too:
- Gifts: Usually trigger the biggest effects in the game.
- Likes: Reaching certain counts can unlock a shared reward, such as a bonus round or an energy refill.
- Follows: The new follower's name can be greeted on stage.
- Comments: A viewer who types a certain word can join a team or make a choice in the game.
- Shares: Can create an effect such as powering up a team.
That way, viewers who don't send gifts can join the game too. This makes the stream fun for everyone, not just a few people.
What happens behind the scenes?
Without getting into the technical details, the process roughly works like this:
- You start your TikTok LIVE.
- The app that runs the game connects to your stream via your username.
- When a viewer sends a gift, likes, follows or writes a comment, that event reaches the app.
- The app recognizes the event and runs its in-game response.
- Viewers see the result of their action on the stream within a few seconds.
In TikQo, this connection is built into TikQo Launcher. Just type your username in the LIVE tab in the launcher and click Connect; you don't need to install a separate connection program. You'll find the full setup in our step-by-step setup guide.
What is a mapping?
A "mapping" is the list of rules that decides which interaction triggers which effect in the game. For example, "when a Rose gift comes in, a soldier appears on stage" is a mapping.
In some setups the streamer has to define these mappings one by one: setting which gift is tied to which key, command or effect takes time. In TikQo games, the mappings come ready with the game. Each game's effects are listed on that game's page.
Example mappings
The table below shows examples of what mappings can look like in a gift-powered game. Every game has its own effects, which are listed separately on the game pages.
| What does the viewer do? | What happens in the game? (example) |
|---|---|
| Sends a Rose gift | A soldier appears on stage with the viewer's profile picture on top |
| Sends a Rocket gift | A boss fight starts, the screen shakes |
| Sends a Lion gift | A giant unit lands on stage |
| Likes reach 100 | A bonus round starts, points are doubled |
| Follows | The new follower's name is greeted on stage |
| Types "red" | The viewer joins the red team |
| Shares the stream | The team gets stronger |
| Sends gifts in a row | A combo multiplier kicks in |
The names, looks and values of gifts on TikTok are set by TikTok and may change over time.
What makes a good gift game?
Not every interactive game has the same impact. Games that really work on stream usually share these traits:
The effect is instant and clear
Viewers should see what happens right after they send a gift. A delayed or hard-to-notice effect makes them less likely to join in again.
Viewers see themselves on screen
When the name and profile picture of a viewer who sends a gift appear in the game, the interaction becomes personal. In TikQo games, the gifting viewer's profile picture and name can appear on stage, which is why viewers get more involved in the stream.
Small and big effects are balanced
Free interactions (likes, comments, follows) create small but frequent effects, while gifts create bigger moments. This balance lets everyone on the stream join the game.
The rules are easy to understand
Someone who just joined should be able to understand within a few seconds what does what. Showing a short "gift → effect" list on screen or explaining the rules at the start of the stream really helps.
There's a shared goal
Defeating a boss, reaching a goal or competing between teams encourages viewers to act together. Team games also liven up participation through comments.
What to keep in mind as a streamer
- Invite, don't pressure. Instead of pushing viewers to send gifts, explain how the game works in a fun way. And always highlight the free interactions too.
- Follow TikTok's rules. Community guidelines and policies for LIVE and gifts are set by TikTok; it's your responsibility to keep your stream content in line with them.
- Test before you go live. With the test simulator in TikQo Launcher, you can send gifts, likes, follows and comments and see how the game reacts in advance.
- Don't forget to say thanks. Even when the game shows the effect, thanking the viewer by name strengthens the bond.
We've also collected ways to boost engagement beyond games in our viewer engagement guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do gift-powered games need a separate connection tool?
Some setups need one; TikQo doesn't. The LIVE connection is built into the launcher.
Can I change what each gift does?
In TikQo games, mappings come ready with the game and are listed on the game page. If you have a question about a specific game, you can ask us on WhatsApp.
Can I play while streaming from my phone?
The game runs on a Windows computer. You can go live from your phone; the launcher connects to your stream with your username. TikTok LIVE Studio or OBS is usually used to put the game screen on the stream. Details are in our computer and software guide.
Pick the right game for your stream
Browse the game list to see how each game reacts to each gift. Then download TikQo Launcher, follow the setup guide and create your account. To pick the right game for you together, message us on WhatsApp.
TikQo is an independent service and is not affiliated with TikTok or ByteDance.