When it comes to finding fresh -- and good -- content on YouTube, it can be a bit daunting. This is especially true of video games, which everyone seems to hit upon at some point or another for a quick boost in viewers. But a lot of these people aren't really all that fun to watch.
If you're anything like me, you probably find a lot of channels to follow on YouTube either through the system's suggested stuff, which can be iffy at best or via your friends, who tend to be more reliable in suggesting things you like.
There's just one problem with this. YouTube (and often our friends) like to suggest channels that are already extremely popular, because obviously none of us have ever heard of that guy with millions of followers. So, a lot of other really good channels with solid followings that just don't make the follower count cut can be overlooked.
Since we've been pondering this, it occurred to us that it might actually be helpful if we compiled a list of some of the somewhat more obscure game-centric YouTube channels that are worth a watch. Keep in mind that when we're using "obscure" a bit loosely here. On average the channels in this list have about 100k followers. That's nothing to sneeze at, but they deserve more.
So, you might wonder what requirements we used to pick out these channels. Well, aside from subscriber number we looked at how entertaining the channels actually are. We also made sure they've uploaded content recently. There's nothing worse than finding a new channel you really like and discovering it's inactive.
As a more or less personal goal, I've tried to avoid making every channel listed here Fortnite or Minecraft related, my goal is to offer a nice variety of channel suggestions.
Now, with that addressed, let's get down to the actual list!
Life's A Glitch TV
A combination podcast, shout casting videos, and (some) gameplay. Life's a Glitch TV is the product of three dudes that just love games, particularly esports. A good chunk of the game's content is focused on StarCraft 2, but other exports-centric games get some love as well.
The channel's podcast, Technical Alpha, is more general, with hosts Adam (NovaWar), Jeff (MaximusBlack), and Tabin (PanicSwitched) discussing a variety of gamer and geek-centric topics.
If all of that's not enough for you -- maybe you'd like a little gameplay -- there is some of that there as well.
But, perhaps you're looking for something with a bit more action? Then the next streamer might be what you need.
Guy Named Chris
Okay, so there had to be at least one Fortnite channel. The game is pretty much everywhere. Out of all the YouTube channels I've come across that focus on the battle royale -- and there were a lot -- this one was one of the most fun.
Viewers who visit Chris' channel can find plenty of pre-recorded content, but if you hit it at the right time, you just might catch him live. He's an engaging streamer who is great at interacting with his audience -- as much as you can while playing a competitive game, anyway. That's always a huge plus with these things.
The other great thing about Chris is that he doesn't just seem to be someone playing the game for views. From what I've seen he's actually good at Fortnite.
Of course, the channel isn't all Fortnite, despite that being the primary focus. If you dig around in the videos list, you will find other games here and there -- like NBA2K19.
Now, does all that running, and shooting, and building structures that wouldn't stand up in real-life have you worn out? Well, our next channel is extremely chill -- and educational?
Writing On Games
Of all the channels in this list, I might be most partial to this one. But I'm also a sucker for stuff like this.
Writing on Games is a channel dedicated to -- as they put it -- "in-depth analysis and opinion pieces on games, their designs and their narratives." Here, gamers can find the occasional review and discussions on the industry, gaming history, genres, and a variety of things we often take for granted when we sit down for some play time.
Unlike other gaming review and analysis channels, Writing on Games is doesn't go the "angry gamer" route -- although they're not afraid to tell you what they think.
For the most part the videos consist of relaxing narration layered over gameplay. And the videos are typically pretty short, coming in at around 10 minutes. So it's easy to get a quick listen in between other activities.
But, maybe that's too much talking for you right now and you'd just like to watch some gameplay without having to listen to anyone's voice. I totally get that, so this next channel might be for you... particularly if you're a Nintendo fan.
NintenDaan
This channel is pure Nintendo, no fuss, no muss. A lot of it is also pure gameplay.
For the most part, you won't come to NintenDaan to find critiques or even gameplay with a side of commentary. (Although there will be the occasional chatty video, like the recent Super Mario Party launch stream.) Instead, what you'll find here is first look gameplay for offerings on the Nintendo eShop.
Actually, I should probably warn you. A lot of the gameplay is straight through without editing. So, if you're looking to avoid spoilers, you might want to stick to some of the shorter videos in the channel's archive.
Or, if you're looking for something without any possibility of story spoilers, perhaps a channel focused on creative games?
kAN Gaming
Sometimes, you just want to get a little creative. Instead of adventure and combat, you just want to sit down and build something and that's okay. That's exactly why designing and engineering games exist.
kAN Gaming is a channel dedicated solely to this genre of games. The channel owner spend a lot of time in games like Scrap Mechanic, Trailmakers, and Factorio, building a wide variety of things. Note the UFO in the video above.
Vehicles of all kinds are a pretty big focus of this channel. Perhaps it's due to the challenge of making something that moves.
And before you ask. Yes, there is some more general gameplay. You're just not going to find any RPG, action, or shooter games here.
Speaking of shooters. How about some Overwatch?
Lord Haris
Okay, So Lord Haris' channel is more than just Overwatch. It also features Fortnite and PUBG. But let's be honest, what shooter-centric channel doesn't these days? But the bulk of the channel is definitely Overwatch.
The channel is a bit meme-y, and the videos blend host commentary with in-game action and team chatter. The nice thing about the Lord Haris' channel is that he obviously puts effort into editing his content, making sure viewers don't get left too long without action.
Just keep in mind that while edited, these are still videos with team chat in them. So some might find them offensive.
That's okay though. Because we still have more channels for you to check out. So, how about some Final Fantasy XIV guides?
MTQcapture
Ah, Final Fantasy XIV. It's one of the prettiest MMOs out there, and has an insanely dedicated fanbase to boot. But, man can some of the mechanics be insane -- particularly if you're big on group content.
That's okay, though, because MTQcapture has your back. Hosted by Mizzteq, the channel is constantly updated with guides for those looking to dive into the game's dungeons and other group content.
It also includes the occasional community content, like videos compiled after attending media events. Overall, if you're looking for a little help figuring out in Final Fantasy XIV, this is a good place to look.
It can, however, be pretty serious business at times. That's just the way the cookie crumbles in MMORPG raid tutorials, but there's much to be said for the information here.
So, there you have it. Seven (somewhat) obscure video game YouTube channels you'll want to add to your watch list. There's a little bit of something here for everyone, and we hope you'll give them the chances that they deserve.
Of course, if you're already aware of these guys. Keep giving them your love. YouTubers need love too.
Published: Oct 5, 2018 03:39 pm