12 Yrs♥$✓#
Hey everybody. This is an idea I've had floating around in the back of my brain for a little while and figured I'd test the waters to see how people feel about it.
I'm thinking of starting (with Everdred's permission, of course) a HowLongToBeat podcast, because who doesn't love a good podcast about viddio gims? Here's the basic pitch: myself and (ideally) 2 or 3 other co-hosts with a strong presence on the site would chat probably every 2 weeks (not a fixed interval) about various topics related to game completion for approximately an hour (not a fixed duration). We'd draw a lot from discussions that come up often on the site, like "How do you define Main, Main + Extras, and Completionist?" and "How do you time your playthroughs?" et cetera. I imagine we'd also probably devote a chunk of time to summarizing site-related content, such as interesting forum discussions and the Game of the Month Club (our progress, our thoughts on the nominations for the upcoming month). With enough volunteers, I'd also love to put spotlight on site members too, maybe invite them on to take part in the discussions and interview them about their thoughts and hobbies within the game-sphere. Basically, my aim would be to create something that would appeal to the general video game podcast consuming public, but also highlight the great community we have here.
What do you guys think? Good idea? Terrible idea? Any advice or suggestions? It's all pretty indefinite right now, so I want to incorporate you guys' feedback however I can.
I'm thinking of starting (with Everdred's permission, of course) a HowLongToBeat podcast, because who doesn't love a good podcast about viddio gims? Here's the basic pitch: myself and (ideally) 2 or 3 other co-hosts with a strong presence on the site would chat probably every 2 weeks (not a fixed interval) about various topics related to game completion for approximately an hour (not a fixed duration). We'd draw a lot from discussions that come up often on the site, like "How do you define Main, Main + Extras, and Completionist?" and "How do you time your playthroughs?" et cetera. I imagine we'd also probably devote a chunk of time to summarizing site-related content, such as interesting forum discussions and the Game of the Month Club (our progress, our thoughts on the nominations for the upcoming month). With enough volunteers, I'd also love to put spotlight on site members too, maybe invite them on to take part in the discussions and interview them about their thoughts and hobbies within the game-sphere. Basically, my aim would be to create something that would appeal to the general video game podcast consuming public, but also highlight the great community we have here.
What do you guys think? Good idea? Terrible idea? Any advice or suggestions? It's all pretty indefinite right now, so I want to incorporate you guys' feedback however I can.
10 Yrs♥✓#
Awesome idea, and something I'd love to get involved in!
There is definitely a lot to draw from the forum discussions, and from things like the Book Club/Four on Four/etc. I think an audio podcast would also be a great place to expand on some of the off-topic discussions on the site!
We could even field questions from the forum ahead of each podcast for the hosts to answer, if we get enough engagement from the community!
7 Yrs♥$✓#
Liking the idea! I might be able to help out with it if it gets enough support going and schedules work out and the like. :D
8 Yrs♥$✓#
I like the idea!!! I don't have a strong presence though, so I'd be working on the side if I get involved or something. Maybe you could have the main cast and invite someone every week or something among those lines
12 Yrs♥$✓#
It's certainly an interesting idea, and definitely has the potential to be a nice little pillar of the community.
Obviously a few things to avoid, make sure your hosts are of acceptable quality, both as conversationalists and their mic quality. Nothing ruins a podcast more than poor audio, and having a strong presence on the site doesn't generally mean they'll be good to listen to. I don't mean that as a pre-emptive insult to anyone, just an unfortunate fact and you really don't want to hit that embarrassing situation of signing someone on only to realise that they aren't a good fit for the show. And on that note make sure that the hosts have some familiarity with each other, try some offline attempts, see how it goes, get to know each other before hand, otherwise you might end up with a lot of awkward pauses, jostling for the mic etc. Good chemistry can go a long way.
And the other major point, obviously something that'll get refined over time if you do go for it, the format. I've thought about it in the past, not actually doing a podcast but just about how it might exist and the one hurdle I always faced was differentiating it from a typical "news of the week" podcast. We're a relatively small community (but growing :D) but a major difference between here and other sites is everyone is typically doing their own thing, as opposed having a more focused objective such as the current big name triple A releases of the month etc. The question is how entertaining and dynamic can a podcast be if you end up talking about games the others haven't played? maybe that's just my personal bias though and it's not that bad or I'm just being to pessimistic about it and it's not that big of a deal. I can't imagine that site related topics like "how do you time your runs?" generate that much conversation. Either way, I'll be very interested to see it work.
You've likely considered these points already though. None of this is meant to dissuade you, I have full confidence you can make it happen. Good luck :D
Obviously a few things to avoid, make sure your hosts are of acceptable quality, both as conversationalists and their mic quality. Nothing ruins a podcast more than poor audio, and having a strong presence on the site doesn't generally mean they'll be good to listen to. I don't mean that as a pre-emptive insult to anyone, just an unfortunate fact and you really don't want to hit that embarrassing situation of signing someone on only to realise that they aren't a good fit for the show. And on that note make sure that the hosts have some familiarity with each other, try some offline attempts, see how it goes, get to know each other before hand, otherwise you might end up with a lot of awkward pauses, jostling for the mic etc. Good chemistry can go a long way.
And the other major point, obviously something that'll get refined over time if you do go for it, the format. I've thought about it in the past, not actually doing a podcast but just about how it might exist and the one hurdle I always faced was differentiating it from a typical "news of the week" podcast. We're a relatively small community (but growing :D) but a major difference between here and other sites is everyone is typically doing their own thing, as opposed having a more focused objective such as the current big name triple A releases of the month etc. The question is how entertaining and dynamic can a podcast be if you end up talking about games the others haven't played? maybe that's just my personal bias though and it's not that bad or I'm just being to pessimistic about it and it's not that big of a deal. I can't imagine that site related topics like "how do you time your runs?" generate that much conversation. Either way, I'll be very interested to see it work.
You've likely considered these points already though. None of this is meant to dissuade you, I have full confidence you can make it happen. Good luck :D
12 Yrs♥✓#
Yeah, I think the main problem would be mic quality. Podcasts usually have specialized mics, whereas 99% of the people here are using headphone mics or a simple desktop mic.
7 Yrs♥$✓#
Topic/segment ideas:
Recommended game of the week/the opposite
Each episide, each cast member either recommends a game, trying to convince folks to play it (as tends to happen when you really like a game and want to share it lol) or does the opposite and recommenda a game to stay away from (explaining why).
Video game trivia:
Little segment where random tidbits are share about cool games. Kinda like Did You Know Gaming Extra but with the gang here. And folks could send in their favorite little tidbits to have read on the show.
Forum tip of the show:
Random forum tip, self explanitory
This month on the forums:
General overview, highlight any special events (challenges, charity streams, etc.) going on round here.
Guests??
Could have guests, iunno
Also yeah, I've tried my hand at podcasting/lets plays and nothing ruins a decent show like bad sound quality and no chemistry. Mostly sound quality though. Most of my podcasting friends have whole setups, and mixers are pretty well essential when dealing with multiple audio sources.
Recommended game of the week/the opposite
Each episide, each cast member either recommends a game, trying to convince folks to play it (as tends to happen when you really like a game and want to share it lol) or does the opposite and recommenda a game to stay away from (explaining why).
Video game trivia:
Little segment where random tidbits are share about cool games. Kinda like Did You Know Gaming Extra but with the gang here. And folks could send in their favorite little tidbits to have read on the show.
Forum tip of the show:
Random forum tip, self explanitory
This month on the forums:
General overview, highlight any special events (challenges, charity streams, etc.) going on round here.
Guests??
Could have guests, iunno
Also yeah, I've tried my hand at podcasting/lets plays and nothing ruins a decent show like bad sound quality and no chemistry. Mostly sound quality though. Most of my podcasting friends have whole setups, and mixers are pretty well essential when dealing with multiple audio sources.
7 Yrs$✓#
MikeyMalibu
7 Yrs$✓#
My only request would be that it would be at around 1/2 hour length, a lot of game podcasts tend to drag on and I prefer stronger content over general conversation.
8 Yrs♥$✓#
Maybe we can create a diacord channel to practice
10 Yrs♥$✓#
uvehj
10 Yrs♥$✓#
Sounds cool. I'll be sure to check it out and give some feedback!
I'm always on the lookout for podcasts that discuss other games than the latest AAA releases, so It surely will be interesting to listen about people's journey through their backlogs.
I'm always on the lookout for podcasts that discuss other games than the latest AAA releases, so It surely will be interesting to listen about people's journey through their backlogs.
7 Yrs✓#
UltimateZombieToast
7 Yrs✓#
This is a great idea! Not only that, but HowLongtoBeat is a relatively small site, so doing a podcast might honestly bring some more attention to it.
I think most of the points others have brought up are incredibly valid, as well, especially with the sound quality. A good mic setup for everyone is imperative. When I first started streaming (knowing absolutely nothing about recording), I learned that even if other parts of your presentation are well-developed, it means absolutely nothing if the quality of sound isn't good enough. People simply won't watch... or listen, in this case.
Also, this might seem a bit silly, but I would honestly hold try-outs and have a couple practice shows as well. Chronoja brought up the fact that you want to make sure your hosts have onscreen chemistry, but you also might want to put potential hosts in a position where they have to sacrifice time to devote to deadlines before you have your "cast" set in stone. This isn't directed at anyone in general, but I've helped organize projects before and people always take on more than they can handle. So, just make sure that your volunteers are committed to this project before you get everything all set up and ready.
I wish you the best of luck. If you need any help with anything just let me know, and I'd love to help out! ^_^
I think most of the points others have brought up are incredibly valid, as well, especially with the sound quality. A good mic setup for everyone is imperative. When I first started streaming (knowing absolutely nothing about recording), I learned that even if other parts of your presentation are well-developed, it means absolutely nothing if the quality of sound isn't good enough. People simply won't watch... or listen, in this case.
Also, this might seem a bit silly, but I would honestly hold try-outs and have a couple practice shows as well. Chronoja brought up the fact that you want to make sure your hosts have onscreen chemistry, but you also might want to put potential hosts in a position where they have to sacrifice time to devote to deadlines before you have your "cast" set in stone. This isn't directed at anyone in general, but I've helped organize projects before and people always take on more than they can handle. So, just make sure that your volunteers are committed to this project before you get everything all set up and ready.
I wish you the best of luck. If you need any help with anything just let me know, and I'd love to help out! ^_^
6 Yrs✓#
clumsypenguin
6 Yrs✓#
Others have said this already but yeah auditions to look for engaging people with good mic qualities would be awesome. I'm still pretty new to the site so I wouldn't be a good host but I'd love helping out in any other way if user submitted topics become a thing. Many gaming podcasts focus on what's the latest in gaming and I think this one could easily set itself apart by just having people talk about whatever they're playing or what they're trying to complete or get off their backlog (would fit in with the theme and purpose of the site too). Also, some podcasts I enjoy listening to have hosts who prepare varying topics which may not have anything to do with any modern event, i.e. Great ideas for games to take home to play with family for the holidays, Techniques/ organization methods for getting games completed.
Good luck! I'd definitely listen to something like this if it gets made
Good luck! I'd definitely listen to something like this if it gets made
10 Yrs✓#
CubanPete
10 Yrs✓#
If you guys need a discord server you can try the HLTB server: https://discord.gg/v5F26Dk
We could use new people anyway so it would be a win-win for both sides.
12 Yrs♥$✓#
I would love to have a channel on the Discord server for this. It would make communication a lot easier and also allow us to bring in guest hosts from the community.
If anybody is interested in being a regular co-host, send me a PM either on here or Discord. Even if you don't think you have a big "site presence" I want to make sure I take everybody into consideration. I probably won't hold "try-outs" until after New Years, both to give people enough time to get in contact and also so I don't go insane from holiday overload. Like people have said, the most important thing is going to be finding a group of people with good chemistry. I don't think I'll disqualify anybody for having headset mic quality, but since that's clearly an important consideration, I'd at least like to know if you're willing to put forth the investment for a decent mic if things take off.
In the meantime, please keep the suggestions coming! I can use them to start planning episodes and segments. I'm so excited to see you guys' support!
8 Yrs♥$✓#
Just got into the discord group! Same nickname that I use here!
10 Yrs♥$✓#
uvehj10 Yrs♥$✓#
The thing with mic quality is that great chemistry and comentary can carry bad mic quality, but okay chemistry and okay discussion may not. There are famous podcasts with bad audio quality, but they compensate it with other aspects. Usually with the type of stuff that is very hard to plan for (great humor, interesting guests or unique content).
That being said, this is usually more important for podcasts with a general audience or trying to gain a following in whatever area. If the podcast is more aimed at discussing stuff in the community and have mostly users listen to and interact with it, I don't believe it is as critical.
I don't think I would be a good candidate as a co-host (cheap mic, non-native English speaker, european timezone...) but I'll be down to help in the "backstage" if needed. Editing or helping with shownotes or community feedback or whatever.
13 Yrs♥F✓#
I listen to a lot of podcasts and have often thought it would be fun to have one for the site so I like the idea, but it can be tricky. I tend to not try things like this unless I feel confident it will be executed well.
Like a few have mentioned, high quality audio is very important. Certainly wouldn't hurt to try some tests runs and see how chemistry is. I couldn't contribute all the time but might make an occasional appearance.
Let's see where the discussion goes.
Like a few have mentioned, high quality audio is very important. Certainly wouldn't hurt to try some tests runs and see how chemistry is. I couldn't contribute all the time but might make an occasional appearance.
Let's see where the discussion goes.
8 Yrs♥$✓#
inmuse
8 Yrs♥$✓#
I'm always interested in hearing other people's method of tackling their large backlogs.
Do you attach it quickest to longest games? Maybe oldest to newest release? A mix of multiple methods?
On a similar note, how do you guys choose which game you are nominating for the Video Game of the Month.
Just some topics that may be interesting in the podcast.
Do you attach it quickest to longest games? Maybe oldest to newest release? A mix of multiple methods?
On a similar note, how do you guys choose which game you are nominating for the Video Game of the Month.
Just some topics that may be interesting in the podcast.
8 Yrs♥$✓#
it could be the one chosen for videogame book club, or just choose a game for each person doing the podcast. If we have a guest every 3-4 episodes it can be guest's choice
12 Yrs♥$✓#
Last call for anybody who wants to be considered for the host try-outs, either send me a message here on the site or on the HLTB Discord channel. January 5th will be the deadline, after that I'll get in contact with everybody and we'll start try-outs.