I also encourage you to read the replies, as it shows that our ideology becomes more refined as we progress.
The purpose of this thread is to give examples of what we believe good content looks like. Here are some founding principles:
YouTube videos about Minecraft should not solely be entertainment.
Kids are the next generation of gamers. We should mentor them, not dispose of them, no matter how annoying.
MC YouTubers should play with their fans, not for their fans.
The next four lists are lists of habits that qualify good videos and a good channel:
General video-to-video habits:
Asking for likes / subscribes: I realize that there are many reasons why someone would ask for likes or subscribes. However, it rips viewers away from the video. My suggestion: if you ask for these, put them at the end of the video, or before the video even starts. That way, your audience will stay engaged.
Don't swear excessively. There are infinitely better ways to express anger or surprise than swearing. If it just comes out, no biggie. Just don't make that your go-to.
Not all comedy is screaming. Please scream responsibly.
Always have fun! There's no point to playing a game if you're not having fun! (Not to mention your audience will notice. No pressure )
Channel habits:
If your fans ask for something, address it. "That's a rather ambiguous statement you got there." I agree. Here's why I phrased it that way: there is going to be a WIDE range of requests. Ignoring those requests (whether purposefully, because of awkward or inappropriate requests, or accidentally) kind of leaves a person saying "Gee, I hope they saw that," and then they wait weeks to find out. If the request is inappropriate, then shut it down, but don't let it sit and get attention from other people. This can turn the comments into "First!", "Like if you're watching in 20xx!", "Find the o in the 0's to get a girlfriend!", copy-pasted comments, etc. However, don't force yourself to reply to a comment on an ancient video. High-level YouTubers have tons upon tons of comments on their videos. Set yourself a time frame for when you'll stop answering them, and let your audience know. It will make your job a lot easier.
Don't promise anything. Although this statement seems harsh, there may be circumstances beyond your control that may stop you from fulfilling a promise. If that happens, your fans (99 out of 100 times) will not know what happened, and start asking "Where's this? Where's that? You said blah de blah..." If you want to give an affirming answer, say something like "I'm hoping to do that!" Side note: occasionally listen to your fans' suggestions.
Have a schedule. If you put out decent content, and have a loyal fanbase, there will be demand for more frequent videos. Create an upload schedule that you can realistically handle(maybe give yourself some lenience) and that is consistent, and give your viewers the info (the best way to do that is to put it in your channel info). Once again, there may be things beyond your control that interrupt it. There are ways to prepare for it, like recording a few days in advance so you give yourself a buffer in case you don't record one or two days. Perhaps record a long session and make multiple episodes out of it.
Make channel art for your front page. This kind of stuff is the first thing a person sees when they visit your channel. First impressions are usually the most important. Make it a good one. Or, like the previous point, recruit someone else.
Make sure you have a profile pic that you like, but is relevant to your channel. When you own a YouTube channel, your profile pic becomes like your "company logo." It needs to be something that represents you and your channel well.
Make sure everything is working when you record. You need to know if you are recording both video and sound, if they're synced, if you're even recording, if your FPS holds up under pressure (a good mod to install: Optifine), if your video and sound quality are acceptable, etc. If something doesn't seem right, fix it. Don't just upload it.
Create a good username. Make sure it is something you like, it's something that is appropriate, and doesn't have an excessive amount of numbers in it, or after it. Teesee had some good examples: “PokemonBeast27” and “MeatHeadMarioDude59.” (Don't even give me the crap that the last name is more than 16 characters long...) Here's what people see: "Beast," which says you are the very best, like no one ever was, at Pokemon (pride), and "MeatHead." Also, don't copy other famous YouTuber's names. (Even though this falls under unoriginality, it needs to be stressed.)
Content habits:
Have original content. There are infinitely many ways to express yourself in your content. Always make sure that when you do something, it's something that is different, that has your own spin on it. Don't set your heart on just one aspect of minecraft, like a survival series, for example, if you do it exactly like someone else. I think the best way to explain this entire concept is with a counter-example. Lucky blocks. These were all the rage months ago (and among a few people, they still are). Everyone did the same thing. Break a lucky block, deal with what's inside. PvP with what you get. The Pack is notorious for this. The only variant there is the lucky blocks themselves, what's inside and what you get. Don't get me wrong, there is a slight chance that there is something original to be done with lucky blocks, but we just haven't found it yet. Don't attempt unless you're absolutely sure it's not just "break blocks, get items, maybe PvP." This is the perfect time to say that if you are doing something that is considered overdone (not just lucky blocks), think about it, and rewatch your video until you have come to a decision. Then pay careful attention to the reactions of your viewers, should you decide to post it. On the flipside, don't make every video something completely new. It's okay to do a few videos on the same thing. Chances are, they won't be the exact same experience, neither for your viewers, nor for you. Embrace that, but don't milk it.
Have varied content. If you are interested in multiple sub-genres of MC, then make sure you post videos about them. Don't start one series, and then finish it before starting a new series about a different sub-genre. Out of all the people who check out your channel, the ones who, say, like PvP might watch your first series, but not your second series about redstone. Also, those who like redstone will have already seen your channel and think, "I remember them. They do PvP," even if you started that redstone series. Just make sure you're representing your interests well with the videos you put out, so that you can attract the audience(s) that will enjoy your content.
Don't use pre-made intros. Create an original one, if you are going to have any, and put work into it (or recruit someone else). Having an intro is a trademark of a channel, and you don't want to be a knock-off of other channels. I would say it's better to have no intro than an unoriginal one. Make sure it's not too busy, and has a consistent volume with the rest of your video, just so your audience doesn't have to constantly adjust the audio.
Collaborate with other YouTubers! It's fun to watch, as a viewer, and fun to do, as a YouTuber. As an added bonus, it will help out both of your channels (most likely).
Facecam is good, but not required. It makes you look more personable, if that's what you're going for. But, for a counterexample, go watch Yrimir (a Terraria channel) and you'll see what I mean. Heck, they don't even talk! But their content is amazing, and here's why:
Learn to edit your videos, or get someone who knows how to do it for you. Well edited videos are well liked by viewers. It keeps us engaged, without being pulled out of the video every time there is a boring part. Make sure the audience will stay engaged (don't worry if the boring part is only a few seconds). Yrimir is great at editing, but minor edits are great as well. There was once this group of noobs who went by the name of Dead Workers Party. There were infinitely many facepalm moments in their videos, but their personalities and their editing were their prizewinning traits, and you couldn't help but like their content. They actually introduced me to Minecraft. If you want to see what I am talking about, watch some of their adventure maps (not the more "recent" ones, and I put recent in quotes because they moved to a different channel, and their "recent" videos are around a year old, or more).
Do what you are good at, or what you are trying to get better at. If you do what you are good at, it makes for a better video. If you start out at something you are not good at, and get better at it over time, your audience can grow with you, and that adds to the experience. However, don't overestimate yourself. Don't be making redstone tutorials when you don't know what comparators are, and don't make building tutorials if you haven't practiced building. This also applies to one of the three categories of a good Minecraft video is. If you can't act, either work on it or don't role-play or storytell.
If you are showcasing something that is not yours, or is inspired by someone else's creation, acknowledge it in the video. Even if you don't give a crap about integrity, people will find out, and call you out on it. This is a very serious one, so once again, if you mess up, apologize and make it right.
Have good commentary. "Now wait," you say, "You just said Yrimir was a good YouTuber and they don't even talk!" You are right, but they add captions instead. It's commentary, whether you can hear it or not. Just don't leave your viewers hanging, thinking "What are they thinking right now? I have no idea what they are like..." Also, make sure that when you do talk, you do so clearly, concisely, with a good pace (not too fast, not too slow, rehearse if you need to...), and loud enough for your viewers to hear and understand you.
When doing tutorials, don't move around. Remember, your viewer is watching from your point of view, and it's really distracting when you keep moving around while talking about your tutorial. Only move around when you need to. (Side note: outline every step of the tutorial thoroughly so that there's no doubt about what you need to do to replicate your process).
General demeanor:
"Woah, woah, wait a minute. What are you doing, telling me how to act?"
Just hang on a sec. These habits show that you are mature and have positive personal qualities. Changing your personality is wrong, but not the way you act. There's a difference. In turn, you will have a healthy channel with awesome videos. (90% guarantee it.) Note: These are not actions to overhaul your current demeanor. They are things to weave into your current demeanor.
Be real. If you are genuine in your actions while playing a game, you cannot rightfully be ridiculed for your personality. Sure, people will hate on you now and then, but just because they do doesn't mean they are right. Always be yourself. If you're trying to be like another youtuber, no one will watch you. Why? Because they can go to that other channel and watch the real thing. But make sure that you show the part of yourself that sets you apart.
Be a friend. Always treat other players with grace and understanding, even if they anger you. Even with hackers and trolls. They are a part of the gaming community as much as you or I, and it would be better to have them on our side instead of having them just "disappear." Make your best effort to do so. This also applies to the younger generation of gamers, and that's why that is #2 on the founding principles list. Also, treat other players as equals. Just because you own a YouTube channel and have subs doesn't make you better than anyone else. On a side note, be careful when accusing people of being trolls or hackers. It's possible that they are just bad / good, respectively.
Be just as professional outside the game as inside. Simply put, if you are not, you will be labelled as a hypocrite. Just a fact of life. If you mess up, apologize. If you get in a fight, make things right (I must be a poet). This especially applies to social media.
About personal drama... In a nutshell, this is how I would handle it: It is not the fan's job to solve a YouTuber's problems. If a YouTuber wants help with personal issues or has a falling out with a friend (if they also are a YouTuber, then that's twice the trouble averted), they'll ask people they know personally and whom they know well. Obviously we need to support people, but their lives should not become ours (which turns into principle #3). This did not happen between Pedguin and Hero (wait, who brought that up? Certainly not me...), and their fanbases went nuts. Avoid at all costs.
Make an effort to refine your sense of humor. Sure, there are silly things once in a while that just happen and we can't help but laugh. But don't make that your "niche." We already have that, and it's getting old. VERY OLD. Like rolling-over-in-it's-grave old. On the flipside, try not to make people uncomfortable (this statement does not apply to what you personally believe, but don't go out and try to make people uncomfortable, either). Some examples: sexual inuendos, calling people "retarded" or "fags" or "gay," uploading a video on the "girlfriends mod..." etc.
Don't stereotype people. In a nutshell, no two people are alike. So how ignorant is it to say that an entire group of people is alike based on their age, race, sex, likes, dislikes, schedule, habits, etc...? Be very watchful of yourself when making commentary.
If you mess up, at the very least, apologize. If you can do more to fix your mistake, then do it. It's understandable to make a mistake, even with the very best intentions. But good intentions do not excuse mistakes. Apologize for your mistake, and if you can fix the problem, make your best effort to do so.
Special thanks to the contributors to our lists above:
Writr
Teesee
RobertFrans
GiselleGewelle
TehSageOfGames
Fortanono
(and me!)
And finally, the list of ideas. These will be the top (no set number) ideas for YouTube Minecraft videos. These are put in order of when the idea came up, not how good it is. Ideas can be small or ambitious. But it needs to be original, creative, and appropriate. The ideas should also be things that are not often done, if at all.
Make a role-playing series. (Mianite is an example of this, except the YouTubers involved didn't really get into the story as much as CommunityMC. They played it like they would any story-driven videogame: they only paid attention to the story to get crucial details, not to act as though they were one of the characters. If you do this, that's the (low) bar that's been set. I challenge you to do better.)
Do a YouTubers vs. fans series. (The Pack does this around once a month, if you want an example.)
Help organize special YouTuber events in MC. (Like UHC or the old-style Survival Games, for example.)
If you think any of these should be removed, edited, or that another should be added, post a suggestion.
Here is a list of people who have pledged to make Minecraft YouTube a better place:
(To be added, say "I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.")
pastella_skies
RyanTheCacti
GiselleGewelle
sammyandsam
teesee
tlc22
mearrin69
Use this banner in your signature. If you want, you can also put what I have in my signature, which is our final guiding principle.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
As someone who has youtubed in the past and has just started up again, I've never had many subscribers -- but that's not why I like making videos. And why I do appreciate subscribers I've had in my other channel, I think that you shouldn't be doing it just for the subscribers, but with the enjoyment of making videos themselves.
I've been trying to make minecraft tutorials on the less-known topics of minecraft (curing zombie villagers, obtaining mob spawners), because when I wanted to buy minecraft, I couldn't find many quality tutorials.
I don't have any expensive editing software, but I try to make my videos high-quality and look appealing. I also put effort into drawing my thumbnails.
I feel that subscriber interaction is important - no matter how many subs you have. I used to do a series called QuestCraft, where I asked my subscribers for challenges to complete in videos.
YouTube is not ruining Minecraft in my opinion - we just have to make sure we're using it right.
I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.
As someone who has youtubed in the past and has just started up again, I've never had many subscribers -- but that's not why I like making videos. And why I do appreciate subscribers I've had in my other channel, I think that you shouldn't be doing it just for the subscribers, but with the enjoyment of making videos themselves.
I've been trying to make minecraft tutorials on the less-known topics of minecraft (curing zombie villagers, obtaining mob spawners), because when I wanted to buy minecraft, I couldn't find many quality tutorials.
I don't have any expensive editing software, but I try to make my videos high-quality and look appealing. I also put effort into drawing my thumbnails.
I feel that subscriber interaction is important - no matter how many subs you have. I used to do a series called QuestCraft, where I asked my subscribers for challenges to complete in videos.
YouTube is not ruining Minecraft in my opinion - we just have to make sure we're using it right.
I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.
Awesome! These are good examples, too.
Also, your name has gone up on the board.
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Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
I like this thread, if nothing else but for the fact that it is clear you genuinely want to create a positive atmosphere with relation to Minecraft and Youtube.
I don't intend to dabble in Youtube videos like I did way back when - just don't have the time for it. But there are some Youtubers - Rooster Teeth and SethBling in particular - who I enjoy watching for nothing else but the fact that they are actually having fun, and want to express that to their respective audiences. With Rooster Teeth, they enjoy just goofing around and doing dumb stuff; even if it isn't "original" or anything, they enjoy it, and it comes across in their videos. SethBling likes to be creative in manipulating Minecraft to his whim, and even the MindCrack stuff is more about relaxing and having fun.
In short, I think you should add another point: Have fun. If you aren't having fun, then what is the point? People don't want to watch your videos if it is clear that you are trying to force the fun. That's part of the reason why the Yogscast stopped their "Shadow of Israphel" series; they were getting bored and stopped having fun, so they quit it. Having fun should be the number one goal of your videos; people will latch on to that and actually like watching your videos if it is clear you are enjoying whatever it is you are doing.
On a side note, keep this thread up! I think it is a wonderful goal for creating a more positive community.
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Teacher, gamer, and writer.
Creator of "The Wizard Gandy" Minecraft map series.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
I shall start adding more items to that list. Although it seems like I already covered a few of yours, so we'll get to that.
Also, thanks for the banner.
Edit: your suggestions, for the most part, have been added. I condensed a few of them because they kind of fell under the same point.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Also I have a little thing to add where you had "create a good username", it's that not only should it be something original and have no numbers in it but, I see alot of people copy famous youtubers names. Don't. People will do thing like 'CaptainDerplez' or 'OMGBill' or other copies of famous youtuber's names. Hope this helps and to anyone reading this, please don't do this it's unoriginal.
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GordionGamer, I applaud you. This is a very well made thread with great tips for all YouTubers, not just Minecraft. So thank you for your service to the gaming community.
Also I have a little thing to add where you had "create a good username", it's that not only should it be something original and have no numbers in it but, I see alot of people copy famous youtubers names. Don't. People will do thing like 'CaptainDerplez' or 'OMGBill' or other copies of famous youtuber's names. Hope this helps and to anyone reading this, please don't do this it's unoriginal.
GordionGamer, I applaud you. This is a very well made thread with great tips for all YouTubers, not just Minecraft. So thank you for your service to the gaming community.
Cheers!
Thank you, sir, for your support. Although most of the content has come from other people.
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Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
So, reading this, I like the idea and direction, but I have a question and there are a few things that look like they could use some refining.
--> Question:
Do you have plans for any kind of social/group organizing of this, and would you be open to discussing possibilities?
--> Suggestions:
General video-to-video habits:
Don't ask for likes (or subscribes).
Likes are a way for viewers to help the videos they like rise in the search results. While it's not good to ask for them, it is good to remind people how they can interact with YouTubers, the fan communities and the impact their actions can have. Even knowing all the relevant facts, we can easily miss things like that. At the same time, that doesn't mean it's good to ask for likes, just to help our audiences to participate more as constructive members of YouTube.
Use different greetings.
Consistency is comforting and genuine greetings are sometimes of a limited repertoire. This is especially true when the video has no dedicated intro, because the greeting can become part of the intro, and for those with a dedicated intro it can provide a smooth transition between the intro and the video content. Plus, some people have only a few greetings they use, so this seems like a style thing that could do with a bit of clarity as to per video, per series or something else with respect to our personality and style.
Channel habits:
If your fans ask for something, address it.
To what extent? The more videos produced, the more comments we must pay attention to, if we are to adhere to this. It also seems to be talking as much about community moderating & comment filtering, requests made by fans and how we should be careful what we say & how we say it. This might benefit from being separated into multiple points and giving and idea of when requests should be addressed and how to manage our time dedicated to this.
Change up your profile pic every once in a while.
Channel art, sure, but the profile pic can be a brand logo or something else that identifies the channel as the correct one. Changing that without a thought besides, "It's been the same for a while, I should change it." is not something that keeps viewers interested. This might be better for channel art, because that's not mentioned in the point about channel art and profile pics are a lot like logos, and could use some details if still applied to profile pics.
Content habits:
Have original content.
Original is great, but sometimes the originality is in the personal style of play or commentary, and sometimes the originality is more about sharing the fun and enjoyment rather than true originality. This should be pointed out to balance out this point's message, so it doesn't seem completely focused on what we are doing in the game.
Have varied content.
Variety is also great, but within the things we like doing and creating, specified as a way to have a variety of fans and repertoire before things change on us and as a way to keep us interested in creating more content.
Don't use pre-made intros.
Pre-made/template intros have a place, if done right. A short intro animation using the often repeated blueprints built into the name and logo can be good for tutorials or building, because it's short, and has clear relevance. In this way the intro doesn't attract much attention besides being relevant, and the connection to the content is what shines. An original, personal intro would be better if it fits the content/channel, but this is a good way to use the pre-made/template intros.
NOTE: Pretty/artistic intros without relevance to the content or channel are a definite no-no by this approach.
Collaborate!
Just a note about originality and how this point is described. "If you do play by yourself, like on a minigame or map, make sure it's either a showcase, or some sort of story or challenge. Otherwise, that falls under playing for your fans, which is not what we want." This description doesn't mention commentating, personal style, silliness or sharing the fun of playing the game. In other words, it seems to ignore why we like watching certain YouTubers, almost regardless of what they're playing, and why we would choose to watch a specific YouTuber play a map even if we've watched somebody else do the same map.
General demeanor:
A lot of the above is weaving these into the rest of the habits, and pointing out that as habits, they are the norm we choose, not law for our lives.
As somebody who likes this direction, this is a list of suggestions to make this better like you asked for in the OP.
First, to reply to your question, I don't believe I will be. I don't think I'll ever have a YouTube channel devoted to playing other people's games, so I don't think I'm qualified to organize that kind of group. However, be my guest, and expect support from me if you do.
...Although, I always had this idea of starting a group kind of like "Team Crafted," but for me and my friends. (It never happened.) I would have called it "The Crafting Crew." It sounded original to me, and sounded like the kind of ideal I wanted to pursue: people playing MC together, whether casually or hardcore (or in-between). Unfortunately, current life situations (college, and the career type I want to pursue) are steering me away from the YouTuber scene.
Second, you have some really good points. Here are my replies: Asking for likes: reminding people of the impact they have on YouTube is my entire thread's purpose. If asking for likes does that, then I can't be against it. However, the point still stands that it rips viewers out of the video. I think I shall change it to "If you ask for likes, do so at the end of your video." Viewers can't be pulled out of the experience if the experience ends on its own. Using different greetings: in retrospect, this one seems pretty weak. I always considered the intro and the greeting as two separate things, and it never occurred to me that they could be treated as one. I think I will remove it, unless someone else has a counterpoint. (So I'll leave it up for now. If no one else says anything, then I'll remove it.) Addressing fans' requests: You're right, this needs clarification. I was indeed thinking that YouTubers shouldn't be expected to respond to comments on ancient videos (or far enough back to be almost irrelevant), since it will be impossible to manage. That will be clarified. Changing profile pic: You have another good point. If you are going to change your profile pic, it should be because you want to, and it should keep the theme of your channel (like company logos). After all, changing your pic to something completely different out of nowhere is somewhat off-putting (I speak from viewer experience). Original and varied content: Will clarify. Pre-made intros: I honestly don't have an opinion on this one, but I put it up because I thought Teesee had thought it through pretty well. You should debate him on it. If you two come to a consensus, I'll make the appropriate changes. Collaboration Playing solo: Never thought of it like that. However, we need a defined line between playing with fans and for fans (I feel like I've just been spouting this statement as some sort of propaganda, so I apologize if it comes off like that). I agree with you: sometimes solo videos can be classified as sharing the game with others, which is a good thing. When does it cross over to mindless entertainment? If you could help me clarify when that happens, I'd greatly appreciate it, and I'm sure YouTubers would as well.
General demeanor: Will add that.
Thank you for your insight. It was invaluable.
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Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Also, if you see my changes and think they need to be changed again, don't be afraid to speak up. I don't consider everything on the thread to be set in stone, especially the changes.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Last content edit: 23 Sep. 2015
Recently altered portions:
Added more content under the "Channel Habits" and "Content Habits" lists.
If you have not yet read "Minecraft Has Been Butchered By YouTube," and plan to discuss on this thread, please use the link below:
http://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/minecraft-discussion/discussion/2512393-minecraft-has-been-butchered-by-youtube-and-the
I also encourage you to read the replies, as it shows that our ideology becomes more refined as we progress.
The purpose of this thread is to give examples of what we believe good content looks like. Here are some founding principles:
The next four lists are lists of habits that qualify good videos and a good channel:
General video-to-video habits:
Channel habits:
Content habits:
General demeanor:
"Woah, woah, wait a minute. What are you doing, telling me how to act?"
Just hang on a sec. These habits show that you are mature and have positive personal qualities. Changing your personality is wrong, but not the way you act. There's a difference. In turn, you will have a healthy channel with awesome videos. (90% guarantee it.) Note: These are not actions to overhaul your current demeanor. They are things to weave into your current demeanor.
Special thanks to the contributors to our lists above:
Writr
Teesee
RobertFrans
GiselleGewelle
TehSageOfGames
Fortanono
(and me!)
And finally, the list of ideas. These will be the top (no set number) ideas for YouTube Minecraft videos. These are put in order of when the idea came up, not how good it is. Ideas can be small or ambitious. But it needs to be original, creative, and appropriate. The ideas should also be things that are not often done, if at all.
If you think any of these should be removed, edited, or that another should be added, post a suggestion.
Here is a list of people who have pledged to make Minecraft YouTube a better place:
(To be added, say "I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.")
Use this banner in your signature. If you want, you can also put what I have in my signature, which is our final guiding principle.
Final note: YouTubers aren't the only people that influence YouTube. Viewers are an equal or greater force (depending on the situation). And viewers comment. If you are a viewer (which I assume you are), I suggest looking at the thread below.
http://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/off-topic/culture-media-arts/2522608-a-guide-to-youtube-commenting
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Ok, yes! I agree so much.
As someone who has youtubed in the past and has just started up again, I've never had many subscribers -- but that's not why I like making videos. And why I do appreciate subscribers I've had in my other channel, I think that you shouldn't be doing it just for the subscribers, but with the enjoyment of making videos themselves.
I've been trying to make minecraft tutorials on the less-known topics of minecraft (curing zombie villagers, obtaining mob spawners), because when I wanted to buy minecraft, I couldn't find many quality tutorials.
I don't have any expensive editing software, but I try to make my videos high-quality and look appealing. I also put effort into drawing my thumbnails.
I feel that subscriber interaction is important - no matter how many subs you have. I used to do a series called QuestCraft, where I asked my subscribers for challenges to complete in videos.
YouTube is not ruining Minecraft in my opinion - we just have to make sure we're using it right.
I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-fEq715IejBXkVaGsBDYWg // minecraft youtube!
Awesome! These are good examples, too.
Also, your name has gone up on the board.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-fEq715IejBXkVaGsBDYWg // minecraft youtube!
I like this thread, if nothing else but for the fact that it is clear you genuinely want to create a positive atmosphere with relation to Minecraft and Youtube.
I don't intend to dabble in Youtube videos like I did way back when - just don't have the time for it. But there are some Youtubers - Rooster Teeth and SethBling in particular - who I enjoy watching for nothing else but the fact that they are actually having fun, and want to express that to their respective audiences. With Rooster Teeth, they enjoy just goofing around and doing dumb stuff; even if it isn't "original" or anything, they enjoy it, and it comes across in their videos. SethBling likes to be creative in manipulating Minecraft to his whim, and even the MindCrack stuff is more about relaxing and having fun.
In short, I think you should add another point: Have fun. If you aren't having fun, then what is the point? People don't want to watch your videos if it is clear that you are trying to force the fun. That's part of the reason why the Yogscast stopped their "Shadow of Israphel" series; they were getting bored and stopped having fun, so they quit it. Having fun should be the number one goal of your videos; people will latch on to that and actually like watching your videos if it is clear you are enjoying whatever it is you are doing.
On a side note, keep this thread up! I think it is a wonderful goal for creating a more positive community.
Teacher, gamer, and writer.
Creator of "The Wizard Gandy" Minecraft map series.
I have a YouTube channel!
Good point. How could I forget the core of gaming itself?
Also, thanks for the support.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Very good. If I made Minecraft videos, I'd pledge myself to this thing, and if I ever do, I'll come back and do so.
If you are planning to make a suggestion, please read this.
If you want to know more, you can read this.
For those who complain about post-Beta generation, you might want to see this.
I'll make the banners!! contact RyanTheCactus22 on skype.
I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video.
Glad you made this thread!
"I pledge to better myself, my channel, and Minecraft with every video."
I shall start adding more items to that list. Although it seems like I already covered a few of yours, so we'll get to that.
Also, thanks for the banner.
Edit: your suggestions, for the most part, have been added. I condensed a few of them because they kind of fell under the same point.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Thanks to everyone for the support and for pledging your channels to the cause!
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Not a bad idea. Glad you like it!
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Also I have a little thing to add where you had "create a good username", it's that not only should it be something original and have no numbers in it but, I see alot of people copy famous youtubers names. Don't. People will do thing like 'CaptainDerplez' or 'OMGBill' or other copies of famous youtuber's names. Hope this helps and to anyone reading this, please don't do this it's unoriginal.
GordionGamer, I applaud you. This is a very well made thread with great tips for all YouTubers, not just Minecraft. So thank you for your service to the gaming community.
Cheers!
Began playing during Alpha 1.2.6.
I will add that.
Thank you, sir, for your support. Although most of the content has come from other people.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
True, but you were the one who created this thread.
Began playing during Alpha 1.2.6.
So, reading this, I like the idea and direction, but I have a question and there are a few things that look like they could use some refining.
--> Question:
Do you have plans for any kind of social/group organizing of this, and would you be open to discussing possibilities?
--> Suggestions:
General video-to-video habits:
Don't ask for likes (or subscribes).
Likes are a way for viewers to help the videos they like rise in the search results. While it's not good to ask for them, it is good to remind people how they can interact with YouTubers, the fan communities and the impact their actions can have. Even knowing all the relevant facts, we can easily miss things like that. At the same time, that doesn't mean it's good to ask for likes, just to help our audiences to participate more as constructive members of YouTube.
Use different greetings.
Consistency is comforting and genuine greetings are sometimes of a limited repertoire. This is especially true when the video has no dedicated intro, because the greeting can become part of the intro, and for those with a dedicated intro it can provide a smooth transition between the intro and the video content. Plus, some people have only a few greetings they use, so this seems like a style thing that could do with a bit of clarity as to per video, per series or something else with respect to our personality and style.
Channel habits:
If your fans ask for something, address it.
To what extent? The more videos produced, the more comments we must pay attention to, if we are to adhere to this. It also seems to be talking as much about community moderating & comment filtering, requests made by fans and how we should be careful what we say & how we say it. This might benefit from being separated into multiple points and giving and idea of when requests should be addressed and how to manage our time dedicated to this.
Change up your profile pic every once in a while.
Channel art, sure, but the profile pic can be a brand logo or something else that identifies the channel as the correct one. Changing that without a thought besides, "It's been the same for a while, I should change it." is not something that keeps viewers interested. This might be better for channel art, because that's not mentioned in the point about channel art and profile pics are a lot like logos, and could use some details if still applied to profile pics.
Content habits:
Have original content.
Original is great, but sometimes the originality is in the personal style of play or commentary, and sometimes the originality is more about sharing the fun and enjoyment rather than true originality. This should be pointed out to balance out this point's message, so it doesn't seem completely focused on what we are doing in the game.
Have varied content.
Variety is also great, but within the things we like doing and creating, specified as a way to have a variety of fans and repertoire before things change on us and as a way to keep us interested in creating more content.
Don't use pre-made intros.
Pre-made/template intros have a place, if done right. A short intro animation using the often repeated blueprints built into the name and logo can be good for tutorials or building, because it's short, and has clear relevance. In this way the intro doesn't attract much attention besides being relevant, and the connection to the content is what shines. An original, personal intro would be better if it fits the content/channel, but this is a good way to use the pre-made/template intros.
NOTE: Pretty/artistic intros without relevance to the content or channel are a definite no-no by this approach.
Collaborate!
Just a note about originality and how this point is described. "If you do play by yourself, like on a minigame or map, make sure it's either a showcase, or some sort of story or challenge. Otherwise, that falls under playing for your fans, which is not what we want." This description doesn't mention commentating, personal style, silliness or sharing the fun of playing the game. In other words, it seems to ignore why we like watching certain YouTubers, almost regardless of what they're playing, and why we would choose to watch a specific YouTuber play a map even if we've watched somebody else do the same map.
General demeanor:
A lot of the above is weaving these into the rest of the habits, and pointing out that as habits, they are the norm we choose, not law for our lives.
As somebody who likes this direction, this is a list of suggestions to make this better like you asked for in the OP.
First, to reply to your question, I don't believe I will be. I don't think I'll ever have a YouTube channel devoted to playing other people's games, so I don't think I'm qualified to organize that kind of group. However, be my guest, and expect support from me if you do.
...Although, I always had this idea of starting a group kind of like "Team Crafted," but for me and my friends. (It never happened.) I would have called it "The Crafting Crew." It sounded original to me, and sounded like the kind of ideal I wanted to pursue: people playing MC together, whether casually or hardcore (or in-between). Unfortunately, current life situations (college, and the career type I want to pursue) are steering me away from the YouTuber scene.
Second, you have some really good points. Here are my replies:
Asking for likes: reminding people of the impact they have on YouTube is my entire thread's purpose. If asking for likes does that, then I can't be against it. However, the point still stands that it rips viewers out of the video. I think I shall change it to "If you ask for likes, do so at the end of your video." Viewers can't be pulled out of the experience if the experience ends on its own.
Using different greetings: in retrospect, this one seems pretty weak. I always considered the intro and the greeting as two separate things, and it never occurred to me that they could be treated as one. I think I will remove it, unless someone else has a counterpoint. (So I'll leave it up for now. If no one else says anything, then I'll remove it.)
Addressing fans' requests: You're right, this needs clarification. I was indeed thinking that YouTubers shouldn't be expected to respond to comments on ancient videos (or far enough back to be almost irrelevant), since it will be impossible to manage. That will be clarified.
Changing profile pic: You have another good point. If you are going to change your profile pic, it should be because you want to, and it should keep the theme of your channel (like company logos). After all, changing your pic to something completely different out of nowhere is somewhat off-putting (I speak from viewer experience).
Original and varied content: Will clarify.
Pre-made intros: I honestly don't have an opinion on this one, but I put it up because I thought Teesee had thought it through pretty well. You should debate him on it. If you two come to a consensus, I'll make the appropriate changes.
CollaborationPlaying solo: Never thought of it like that. However, we need a defined line between playing with fans and for fans (I feel like I've just been spouting this statement as some sort of propaganda, so I apologize if it comes off like that). I agree with you: sometimes solo videos can be classified as sharing the game with others, which is a good thing. When does it cross over to mindless entertainment? If you could help me clarify when that happens, I'd greatly appreciate it, and I'm sure YouTubers would as well.General demeanor: Will add that.
Thank you for your insight. It was invaluable.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).
Also, if you see my changes and think they need to be changed again, don't be afraid to speak up. I don't consider everything on the thread to be set in stone, especially the changes.
Minecraft YouTubers need to play with their fans, not for them. Click here to see why, and on the banner to see how.
YouTubers aren't the only people affecting YouTube, though. Commenters (that's right, you) make a big difference, too. Click here to see how you can make the comments section constructive (for perhaps the first time in forever).