top_gamesGet the top games currently being streamed on Twitch, ranked by number of viewers. Returns game id, name, and box art. Example: top_games({ first: 20 })
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| first | No | Number of games to return (default 20, max 100) | |
| _apiKey | No | Optional — your own Twitch credentials as CLIENT_ID:CLIENT_SECRET for higher limits; omit to use the shared Pipeworx key. |
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare this as read-only, idempotent, open-world, and non-destructive. The description adds that results are ranked by viewers and return specific fields, but it does not disclose additional behavioral traits like rate limits, caching, or authentication behavior beyond what the schema covers. Given the rich annotations, the description provides adequate but not extra transparency.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single concise sentence followed by a clear example. Every word is necessary and front-loaded with the core purpose. No redundancy or extraneous information.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given no output schema, the description adequately specifies the return fields (game id, name, box art) and ranking method. It could mention the default value of 'first' or the authentication trade-off, but these are covered in the schema. Overall, it is sufficiently complete for a straightforward read-only tool.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The input schema has 100% coverage, describing both 'first' (number, default 20, max 100) and '_apiKey' (optional string for custom credentials). The description's example ('{ first: 20 }') demonstrates usage but adds no semantic meaning beyond the schema. The baseline 3 is appropriate as the description does not enhance parameter understanding.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the verb 'Get', the resource 'top games currently being streamed on Twitch', the ranking criterion 'by number of viewers', and the return fields (game id, name, box art). This fully distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_streams which returns streams rather than aggregated game data.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like get_streams or search_channels. It does not specify prerequisites, such as needing a Twitch API key for higher limits, nor does it explain when the tool should be avoided. The example shows usage but does not clarify scenarios.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.
The tool set includes many similar Pipeworx query tools (ask_pipeworx, ask_pipeworx_grounded, ask_pipeworx_beta, deep_research) that all serve overlapping purposes, causing confusion. The Twitch-specific tools are distinct but are buried among many unrelated tools.
Most tools use snake_case (e.g., get_streams, ask_pipeworx), but there is variation in patterns: some are verb_ noun (get_streams), some are just verbs (remember), and some are adjective_noun (recent_changes). No strong pattern across the whole set.
With 35 tools, the server is bloated for its stated purpose as a 'Twitch' server. Only about 4-5 tools are Twitch-related; the rest are from a data platform (Pipeworx) and generic utilities, making the count feel excessive and unfocused.
For a Twitch server, the tool surface is severely incomplete. It lacks essential Twitch features like clips, follows, chat, or channel management. The few Twitch tools present cover only basic stream and user lookup.