What is a Twitch Raid Train?
The Basics
A raid train is a collaborative streaming event where multiple Twitch streamers connect their broadcasts in a sequence, creating a continuous entertainment experience for viewers. When one streamer ends their stream, they "raid" the next streamer in line, sending all their viewers to the next channel.
New to raiding? See our step-by-step guide on how to raid on Twitch — covers the /raid command, who to raid, and how to be a good raid recipient. Not sure how a single raid differs from a train? Raid train vs raid breaks it down.
How It Works
Join the Train
Streamers sign up for available time slots in a raid train event.
Stream Your Content
Each streamer broadcasts during their designated time slot, typically 1-2 hours.
Raid the Next Streamer
At the end of your slot, use Twitch's raid feature to send viewers to the next streamer.
Keep the Energy Going
The train continues throughout the event, creating a marathon of content and community.
Benefits for Streamers
- Exposure to New Audiences: Each raid brings viewers who might not have discovered your channel otherwise.
- Community Building: Connect with fellow streamers and build lasting relationships.
- Consistent Viewership: Raid trains maintain viewer engagement throughout the event.
- Mutual Support: Streamers support each other's growth through collaboration.
Benefits for Viewers
- Discover New Content: Find new streamers and content styles you might enjoy.
- Non-Stop Entertainment: Enjoy continuous content without searching for new streams.
- Community Experience: Be part of a larger event and interact with multiple communities.
- Special Events: Many raid trains feature themes, challenges, or charity fundraising.
Types of Raid Trains
Gaming Trains
Focused on specific games or gaming genres.
Creative Trains
Artists, musicians, and creators showcase their talents.
Community Trains
Open to all content types, focused on community building.
Charity Trains
Fundraising events supporting various causes.
Common Raid Train Rules
Most raid-train hiccups come from skipped settings, not bad intentions. The standard rules every participant should follow:
- Disable restrictive chat modes during your slot: emote-only, follower-only, and subscriber-only mode all stop incoming raiders from chatting. Turn them off before the train reaches you.
- Turn off OBS/SLOBS auto-reconnect: if your software pulls you back online after you raid out, it breaks the chain.
- Start and end on time: a train runs on its schedule — going long steals the next streamer's slot.
- Raid the correct next channel: double-check the name so the lineup order never derails.
See the full raid train rules & etiquette checklist for the complete list, or — organizing your own? — our guide on how to host a raid train.
Getting Started with RaidRunner
RaidRunner makes it easy to organize and participate in raid trains. Whether you're a streamer looking to join events or an organizer planning your next train, our platform streamlines the entire process.