Death of the Let's Play Format - State of the Channel

[@Killbot-lu9ob]

The only suggestion I could think of is to make a "dump" channel and move the rest of a series or the whole series if it does good or bad and have the "pilot episodes on the main" using your main channel for "single form content" while still having a series but still having single form content. That's the only thing that I can think of.

[@SamanthaEmily888]

Yeah, that's pretty much all I could think of - a channel for passion series that aren't doing as well as they need to be.

[@Leyvin]

The way KZbin has evolved over the past few years., what they're doing are small changes often in order to benefit Established / Traditional Media. VLOGS, News, etc. Trash Consumable Media. They've actually been doing everything in their power to simply destroy Gaming Content, regardless of the fact that Gaming Content at present constitutes 1/3rd of all KZbin Views... another 1/3rd is Music Videos with the last being "Everything Else". Now the way around this is to obviously "Game" KZbin Back... as you say, create a new Channel; say "Elysium Archives" or such. There he can put any and all content he wants because the Algorithm doesn't matter., while Pilot / Preview Episodes go on the Main Channel. In essence use the Main Channel for "Hype" and "Advertising" the other content. See the issue isn't that the Videos are doing badly per se., but rather than the Algorithm simply isn't doing the job it's supposed to (i.e. Syndicate to a wider audience that might be interested). I mean I'm subbed to the channel and this is perhaps the first Video I've seen in the Recommended Feed in a while. That's a problem. (Mind I won't lie... I kind of went off EE for a while during the whole Brexit / Election period., as well he was quite vocal with his opinions that are quite different to my own and that's not what I want to hear / see when I come to a channel for GAMING Content) I'd also argue part of the issue is that really we tend not to see much "New" from EE. Don't get me wrong X-Com and Civilisation were fine series... but they were also like 50 - 100 Episodes, and that's what DOMINATED the channel. There are other Strategy Games., and even Hardcore Audiences can get burnt out on the same content over-and-over. It's not that you can't do such, but look at channels that do Specialise (like Airproud95 or Aavra) who focus on Flight/Racing Sims... great channels, but both Primarily have Twitch Streams for their Main Content; while their Channel Content are more "Highlights"; and with Aavra there are the Yearly Releases of F1, so it's a "New" Game even though it's the same content. I mean the same is true considering, EE also plays A LOT of "Open Ended" Games... or ones that frankly take FOREVER to Finish. Again he need to look at TV... how their Serialisation Format has changed. Typically speaking today., we're looking at 10-12 Episodes Per Season (22-45min) and these are all dropped at the same time for Bing Watching. KZbin is starting to change the same way. Doing an entire Series Drop actually benefits a bit, because people then can instantly watch the next episode; and it's right there in the Recommended / Next. Same is true for creating Playlists. Of course there could be an argument made here that my own Channel doesn't have much, and I've not posted in like 2 Years now... but then I've never been in it to make a living off of KZbin. In fact quite the opposite., I ended up fighting a bit of a battle over a Copyright Claim in the last few videos I uploaded SPECIFICALLY to get Adverts Removed again; because I'm somewhat hell bent on ensuring it's a Ad Free Experience. That also arguably could be a way to go... I mean last I checked EE had a Patreon (he might want to make something else, like a Subscribe Star as Patreon is in serious trouble)., and well that's a decent avenue to go down to disconnect income from KZbin; while still using it for Hosting the Content.

[@Cr4igpeterson]

Leyvin (StudioRaven) i agree with everything you said, I found EE was very vocal with his views which wasn’t what I was looking for while watching a gamer especially as at the time it was coming in from all angles from the news, social media, relatives. I’ve also just found this vid abit much... I’m playing the violin right now.... his last few vids have had between 4-6k views I assume he sees that as not good?

[@adamsandler6005]

Good idea

[@cammilford7078]

yea this seems like a good idea (extra elysium would work for this)

[@PotatoMcWhiskey]

I would definitely suggest a few things, if you need a chat about what I know or to get in touch with smarter people than me give me a shout

[@davidcanterbury4074]

EE, I have to share what your channel has ment to me. I have lives vicariously through your let's play ever since I wanted to play the first battlefleet Gothic armada game and didn't have a good enough computer. I have been introduced to do many sweet new games that I would never have heard of if I hadn't watched the channel. Games I now love. Rimworld, xcom 2, battlefleet Gothic armada 1 and 2. Thank you so much for your great strategy continent. I hope you will be able to continue making videos wherever that may be.

[@MrSamuelStreamer]

Pretty much all of what I'm going to say is purely anecdotal based on my experience as a full-time KZbinr over the past two years, and as someone like yourself who has done a boatload of strategy content. You hit the nail on the head with the first part about being punished for prior videos. I uploaded a short few minute video about some changes to the schedule and twitch crap, subsequently when I uploaded my regular content not long after KZbin were praising me for having such huge views compared to the last video, even though it was very slightly less than my usual expected views thanks to the update video skewing the numbers. And you're completely right, KZbin doesn't favour let's play anymore. I agree wholeheartedly with the batch record method, especially for strategy games, but the truth it is just doesn't work on the platform. The drive towards syndication is pretty obvious with their support of the big TV network corporate channels, so the choice is either match them in pure content load, or quality, but obviously, for us regular people sitting at home recording in a one-man job, you can't do either so have to rely on the community interaction to help bolster those numbers, which is what I would guess my personal success has come from. The caveat to that is you can't record on a daily basis and have high quality edited content unless you already have an established fan base, which you can't do with the heavily-edited time-consuming content itself because if one flops, then it'll be a while before the next content is ready, and you're already up against the odds. Your self fulfilling fandom is absolutely correct as well. A catch 22 really - to be big enough to survive in the system with quality you already need to be big enough to not fail. I personally record on a daily basis, three to four episodes a day, edit them down to the attention-holding bits, get really involved in the community, encourage interaction, and drop series on a whim if they're performing badly or I'm not enjoying it. It's fucking involved, but it works. If you have any channels open anywhere, I'm more than happy to go into the boring minutiae like thumbnail automation and video cutting on the fly and all that crap on a daily basis, my discord DMs are open either way. Good luck with this - it's a tough spot but with genuine enthusiasm when you hit your stride people definitely notice, just a case of finding a comfortable compromise between the algorithm and being true to yourself.

[@jacobschwier5368]

Roll1D2 Games hey just want to say I enjoy your content and I hope your doing well. Also to EE I just hope you do whatever is right for you and your career. I wish you luck and I hope that something happens so that KZbin fixes itself.

[@Jayzeezus]

While EE was talking all I could think about was the way you do your content. I think the main success of your channel comes from the massive interaction with the viewers that you have and is one of the main reasons you're one of my favorite youtubers. I think if EE could mimic some of the things you have done with your channel (recording on a daily basis and making changes based on viewer interaction, etc.) it could go a long way.

[@luke1119411]

I feel like you're the perfect one to be giving advice for this. The first and still only one of two people currently I support on Patreon, and it;s because your content is the best for lets plays (at least, imo). It may have started because of a certain series for degenerates like me, but I still stayed subbed on Patreon because of the interaction with the community. I just wish I could join the Discord, but I'm too shy and don't interact really at all.

[@archontiverius]

Oh shit, a wild Mr Streamer.

[@SurrealBeliefs]

Hey Roll, I'll take any tips! Haha, I love your videos.

[@Rurumeto]

One thing I can say is that when someone is doing a series in a game, long episodes can be a bit daunting to watch. I think part of the fun of watching a letsplay is that I can watch 20 or 30 minutes of gameplay without feeling "I haven't played for long enough to really enjoy it." Also - the algorithm hates really different video content. You have quite a wide range of different types of content (grand strategy and then stuff like wows) You already have the infastructure for twitch streaming for your lets plays and posting the vods on extraelysium, and keeping the main channel for shorter more youtube friendly videos. Whatever you feel is best is what you should do though. We'll stick with you either way.

[@kmann180]

I think that a lot of people that have that wider ranger of videos break them into multiple channels but that also doesn't help with an algorithm that punishes longer videos, As someone that has a channel (Different account) that has longer strategy videos, I did not want to see a video like this (Morally crushing as a small channel) but it is something that I needed to see. Don't get me wrong I think its important to reach out like you have because it may be your channel but the changes you do will impact all of us that watch and so I think the fact that you reached out to us shows that you care. You are a laid back gamer that I relate to especially when making content and as much as I feel useless for suggestions I will throw in my..."Thank you for gaming and please keep in there" To end it I am not sure if the Pilot video idea is best because a lot of like me will watch a series once it has a bulk to it, if I see a new series that I want to watch, I won't generally watch episode one until there are more episodes that I can binge. Not sure if it helps but something more to think about.

[@Smeghead76]

The "best" length for an episode really depends on the type of game, though. For turn-based games such as Space Derelicts, Darkest Dungeon, Battletech or Iratus, you might _need_ an hour or so just in order to be able to cover more than one "mission" (or whatever the equivalent is), especially if you try to explain what you're doing and why in anything but the most basic terms. That probably also applies to real-time games such as Paradox GSGs, although maybe to a lesser extent. Personally, I have no issue with watching videos that are 60+ minutes, so long as there is 60+ minutes worth of content.

[@kuhljager2429]

In addition to the above, I honestly haven't even seen his stuff in my feed, even with the bell turned on. I was suprized to see this video actually notify me

[@Nionivek]

The other for me is that Letsplays are often Edited... and Twitch streams are not. I really hate watching Twitch streams that waste a lot of time on things that a Letsplay would have skipped. . A good example is Random Battles. Want to watch EVERY SINGLE BATTLE in a Pokemon Letsplay? Of course not... is it Pokemon on Twitch? Well get buckled in!

[@mohalen]

I disagree, I and I am sure some others are fine with longer episodes.

[@calgoins4958]

This probably won’t be read but you’ve been my go to person for strategy lets plays since day 1. All the strategy games I have I learned how to play them from you. The lets plays on this channel are things I’ve watched dozens of times and I can’t help but feel like they’re what makes your channel so great in itself. Your ability to keep series going for long periods of time is simply amazing and it genuinely provides great content. I understand that the algorithm has changed and that it makes it harder for you to do things- but don’t let that stop you from doing what you’ve always done.

[@Random_Vids_5]

Constructive criticism here. Firstly, I've been an avid viewer of your content over the last 4 years, and former Patreon supported for the last 2, I'm glad you made this video as it explains too why content from you has been slow in coming. In my opinion, trying to push out content that isn't going to be but into a recommended list is counter-intuitive and bad for the channel. I mostly watch content on YT now to see if I'm interested in it, and most of the content creators I currently watch do a "Let's Try" video then continue the series over on Twitch, creators such as Aavak, Lionheartx10, and Splattercatgaming do this often. The main reason I like that style of content is that I rarely watch their streams live because of my time zone and work commitments, and most often I catch the Vods later on, but I try and pop into a live stream to say hi and let them know ill catch the Vod later on. One of my favourite EE streams/Content was to "Cook with EE" which was great as it was unplanned and felt like I got to know EE better, so maybe some more random themed unplanned content would be good for the channel.

[@cheeseyoger]

I also like that, but it's a bummer when the vods disappear from twitch months/years later when I want to rewatch a series. It would be great if the streams continue to go up on Extra Elysium after they've run on twitch

[@eksduard]

My ideas that might work: ○ Create a 5-10min intro/trailer video for the series you are about to do. Roleplay, set goals, and explain core mechanics of the game. At the end of those videos heavily promote your videos. ○ Split your series into chapters. Ten 30min vids per chapter. At the end of a chapter make a 1-2 min vid with summary and new goals. ○ Make a caps lock phrase in front of each video description. A uniform thumbnail is enough to recognize a series (just at the end ad chapter and part).

[@eksduard]

Anyway, thank you for everything you have done with this channel EE! I am going to support your content no matter what you decide to do.

[@crazy_human2653]

Maybe try utilizing your ExtraElysium channel more than you do so that way if a series does bad you can at least finish the series for the people who want it with out bringing down the whole channel.

[@crazy_human2653]

It might be worth trashing your channel so that you can rebuild it as a channel dedicated to just lets plays of strategy games for that niche on KZbin of people who enjoy it. Because some advise I have heard is do what you enjoy and let the rest work itself out.

[@Sturmlied]

@@crazy_human2653 Trashing the channel might not be so helpful for his financial situation. But utilizing the 2nd channel might be one way that helps

[@ArgandTabletop]

I was thinking along very similar lines.

[@Anhoranka]

I really, really hope you will find a way to continue doing what we all love about you and your videos. I miss the 30-40 minutes during which I can relax and see you play and comment it with sarcasm. Maybe indeed consider using the second channel to upload just anything you want. The channel might get trashed but you it will be just for people who like such format. There are a lot of us, I'm sure. And we'll watch anything you post on the main channel, too! Also, I don't know the algorithm, but I see a lot channels are movinf towards streaming. So, maybe streaming is an option? But this situation breaks my heart :(

[@PrometheoNTG]

I for one would be happy to watch pilots that fit the algorithm and then continue long form series on the other channel.

[@dpwellman]

But but but I'm on KZbin Premium.... I thought that was supposed to help. KZbin has always been cagey about their algorithm. I only started watching the Xcom content as I was unsatisfied with other more "well known" XCOM players' content. Oh, this is one of the few channels my kids are allowed to watch unsupervised. Perhaps just some blog content. Upload whatever you like. We'll watch it.

[@EnterElysium]

KZbin Premium does really really help - each view from a YT Premium user is worth many many times more than one ad! Support much appreciated!

[@brendanrisney2449]

@@EnterElysium That alone is making me consider premium. I've never cared about ads, so I've had little incentive to get premium. Supporting the creators I watch, however? That is worth some money.

[@1stCainite]

@@EnterElysium That is great. I have Premium, but had no idea that it actually weighed more than other viewers, for the creators.

[@dpwellman]

@Stevieoggy92 Doubtful.

[@melkormorgothbauglir.4848]

@@dpwellman Press X to not doubt.

[@DrGeoxion]

Hey, I was really into your channel 1-to-3-ish years ago. Don't watch your channel very often anymore. But that's mostly because my life's changed. I got a job, so pretty much all my watching is in the evening now, you know, the same time slot that is shared with all other hobbies. For me this means my watching will be for either of two things: 1. Background entertainment. 2. Irregular primary activity. Your videos are not very good background entertainment because they are too involved. For my primary activity, there's simply too much. I can start watching a series, but due to my irregular watching, I get behind on series which means the recommendations stop and I either forget or see something I like better at that moment. And this hasn't affected my viewing of just you. Quill18 and Arumba have suffered the same fate for me. So what works best for me: 1. Interesting game/story/challenge. 2. Only once or twice a week. 3. An episode should be 40-80 mins long. Make it something special I want to sit down for. A good example, at least for me, is ManyATrueNerd (and then specifically his Monday and Friday slot). He puts great series there. - Stellaris impossible run. Set the end game crisis difficulty immensely high and see how long you survive. - CK2 Rebuilding Rome while getting back Hellenism and starting as a nobody in Serbia. The goal was made clear at the start, which really helped the story. - The last of us. Linear story-heavy games are good for this of course. So yeah... Don't know if this is any help. Probably not much. I do wish you the very best though and that you'll find something both you and the algorithm are satisfied with.

[@baekdal]

Hi EE, I have been following you for many years, and what you are going through sounds a lot like what I see every day with magazine publishers (I'm a media analyst). My advice to publishers facing your situation where they can't get the scale, and the algorithms turn against them, is to focus on a direct audience instead. For instance, I advise magazines to stop chasing views via Facebook (scale + algorithm) and instead go the subscription/membership route. Focus on a smaller audience, but one who is willing to pay directly every month. Create something they truly love, and then rely on direct communication (like a newsletter) to get people to see the new content. It sounds to me that you would benefit from the same thing. Focus even more on Patreon as your revenue stream, and create the longer and super-awesome strategy games they love. You will still put them on KZbin 'as the platform', but judge their success based on your growth in Patreon revenue, rather than whatever KZbin is doing. As for your content, personally, I love your focus. But we do need something new. Civ 6 ... it's fine, but it's an old game that we have seen 100s of times before. Crusader Kings 2 ... again, old news. HoI4 ... same thing. It's getting old. Stellaris, great game... but again, we have been there done that so many times :) This, again, is the same as what I see with publishers. Many of them have been publishing the same type of things for the past 100 years, and it has just gotten old. So, what new things are you truly excited about right now? That's what I like to see. Finally, the worst thing you can do (again, I'm speaking as a media analyst) is to start to make videos you don't like doing. That might 'optimize for the KZbin algorithm', but it will kill you. We can clearly feel when you don't like a video. So, my advice is that if you don't like where the KZbin algorithm is taking you, drop thinking about that success criteria, and focus on direct patron support instead so that you can do what both you and your audience love.

[@RK9ify]

Hi Thomas! I'm a 20-year-old Journalism major and I want to learn more about the field you're in. Would you mind if I shot you a private message on KZbin so that you could answer some questions and talk about your field of work? Thank you!

[@Uniteddreamerud]

This is so very interesting. A question lies in the air tho, for all his loyal subscribers that watch him, they wouldn’t have a problem at all to go to patron and support him with a monthly payment plan. But what about newcomers? How would he drive new people to his patron. After people hear prices they start to panic. Wouldn’t he hit Plateau? What plan would you do to drive new people to patron

[@zachm3865]

Heyo, I used to be an active viewer but don't watch your content anymore. I found you at the beginning of roll4it and stuck around because I liked the games you were playing and grew to like you as well. As time has passed though I went from highschool to college and started having more going on in my life. It became more difficult to commit to hours of watch time in order to see a series through. What the lets play channels I currently watch do is have 2 channels, one for short compilations of moments from the games they played and another for the full videos. It creates consumable, short, algorithm friendly videos for busier fans, but allows fans to fall back to their old ways of watching when they can allow the time. I could be entirely wrong, but I think the changing demographic may be having an impact as well. Best of Luck Mate

[@AxisSilverstar]

This is actually super relevant. As a lot of the people who watched longer content as kids grow up, we have less time to be able to watch and be invested in long letsplays

[@Hellsong89]

@@AxisSilverstar I may be just individual case, but i love long videos. I can just put playlist of series to run on monitor while i do other stuff. I hate having to click new video and new video time after time for short individual videos. Playlists help with this, but ffs its annoying if list is not organized and you have to guess witch episode is what. But yeah i'm minority in that regard and i get it.

[@elegant9973]

EE, I've been a "fan" (haha I hate that word) for a few years now; like Kerbal Days. And I've been noticing that a lot of your content either has an ending and I'm ready for the next Season/Episodic Game/ etc; or they just stop, no word. And I love the let's plays that you bc I always have something to watch, but I genuinely think that something else should be done in terms of content. I have no idea what you would play and upload but maybe cut up streams? But that's a beast of its own and will take a lot just like let's plays will. But whatever you do you need to have fun with it, because whats the point otherwise Anyways EE, I love your content and hopefully everything will work out

[@klpihl]

This is maybe a solution to the problem with series that is not doing great and not wanting to put them up since they will drag the channel down is make a secondary channel where you could upload them if they dont work on the main so they dont drag it down. and you could maybe mention it in the first episode or somthing like that.

[@Ayeshteni]

Yeah, think a dump channel might not be a bad idea.

[@CrazyLama189]

This sounds like a really good solution to get around this stupid algorithm. Definitely worth considering 🤔

[@paladamashkin8981]

Extra Elysium is already there for this.

[@blueroman5538]

I really love your longer strategy let’s plays and would personally prefer if you kept doing them. I think the pilot idea is a pretty good way to continue without sinking the channel

[@theodorepinnock1517]

I have loved your content for a long time, but it was only when I started watching this video that I realized that I hadn't watched it for a while, and then that KZbin hadn't even been showing it in my subscriptions feed. I've made sure the bell is set to all, and will be making sure to watch what you put up in future.

[@POTKC]

I’ve been following you since you posted episode 2 of World War K, I think since you had at most a few hundred subscribers. Since then I’ve watched many of your KSP, XCOM, Cities Skylines, From the Depths, Hearts of Iron, and other series, and it has been an incredible experience watching your channel grow and develop this excellent community around it. I know this doesn’t help with the issue you’re having - and I genuinely wish I had an answer to how to deal with KZbin’s disgusting algorithm - but I just want to say that it’s heartbreaking to see absolutely fantastic channels like yours, and fantastic people like you, be affected by it like this. I hope you find a way to get through this and I wish you all the best. Whatever happens, I will continue to watch everything you post.

[@houseadiagaming6164]

EE I’ve been with the channel since about half way through WWKI and have absolutely loved your style. I hate to see how things are getting difficult for you to sustain. I really hope you find a way to make this work out for you that lets you be the type of creator you enjoy being. We’re here on the ride with you and you have my support regardless of what you do.

[@esorevikofficial]

So, here is my humble opinion regarding this. First, it hurts a bit to see this video. I have three KZbin channels that I love regarding the content they upload, and two are about strategy games, PartyElite, and EnterElysium, of course. As a consumer, I have found that I prefer videos between 20 and 60 minutes, they aren't too long and allow for story progression and (some) character development. If KZbin is trying to promote short snack-sized videos, but it doesn't match your format, I would bite that bullet. 10 minute videos is a format too short, in my opinion, for any meaningful story and progression. The idea of pilot episodes I believe could be helpful, but a 4 hour grace period sounds extremely short, as it would confine you to a small timeframe/timezone. I, for example, am a Latino living in the Caribbean, so I am already 4 to 6 hours away. If you have viewers in the US, one of the big markets for KZbin, they might be also "time-locked" with that timeframe. I do think a 24-h period might be more sensible, specially for a platform like KZbin that isn't inherently based on live broadcasts. I feel sad that, precisely the sort of content I enjoy from this channel is the sort that will sink the channel. I am more of the opinion that your happiness with your content and your channel should come first and before whatever is popular (be either the people or the algorithm), but I also understand that isn't a winning strategy if your channel is your business as well. Isn't Twitch a suitable platform for VODs? Or is it strictly live-then-save-to-vod? Could an option be to stream pre-recorded vids on Twitch? As my final thoughts, I prefer KZbin as a platform, and I absolutely love the style, format and content you produce and upload. You got me into Paradox Games. I know I am being selfish, but I wouldn't want you to stop doing let's plays. It already left a hole for me in my entertainment schedule. But in the end, despite that, I would like if you do whatever makes you happy and (hopefully) successful (or at least successful enough). I hope you find your solution soon. if you still struggle, you could use some lean startup techniques, write a business model canvas for your channel, start with what makes your channel unique, what value you add, and go from there. Try some brainstorming techniques (there is one that is great for letting stress out that a reverse brainstorming, in which the objective is to get the worst possible ideas for solving the problem) Hope this helps, somewhat. I ramble a lot as well.

[@Alzorath]

Two things I would recommend: #1 - a "Pilot series" specifically to gauge interest, rather than making an "Episode 1", produce a prelude episode for a number of games, and grab the ones that offer a strong balance of personal and viewer interest. ( This also can help counteract disengagement, which is what your channel is experiencing) #2 - Release Stagger - If you have several series you are producing, that aren't "time sensitive" (ie older games, not release/dlc bump tied, etc.), and you just happen to have them both ready to release on a similar date, don't START them at the same time - instead start "Series A" at Day 1, Delay the Start of "Series B" til Day 14, and if there's a "series C" by chance, wait til day 28. This increases the likelihood that you'll have the opportunity to "reengage" a disengaged viewer that may not have wanted to watch Series A, but might be interested in B or C. (combining this with the "Pilot series" you have further opportunities to "reengage") - disengagement generally takes a couple weeks, to a month, as it depends on the viewer's habits (there's some that can push it in a week, but they're the outlier) ---- The view drops, and I learned this the hard way even on my non-gaming channels (and yes, I do let's plays on here strictly for fun, not as a source of income or growth - as it's not the primary interest to me here), are not so much youtube punishing the channel for "bad performers", so much as youtube viewing a regular viewer (or even a subscriber) as disengaged with your content (reducing the likelihood for it recommending your "similar content" released during that timespan). You'll find that, like this video, it actually does still bump recommendation for a significantly deviant video since there's a likelihood that "Viewer liked this creator before, but disengaged while creator was producing X, we now see Y pop up, so should test if viewer would be interested in distinct content Y from a channel they were previously engaged in" (this is extremely simplified, as it is WAY more layered than this) ---- There are other options, but they revolve around hybridizing - say, doing Let's Plays you enjoy, but also doing scripted content that compliments it (but is different enough to draw the same "ding" from the algorithm, so it will go "maybe viewer will come back for this?"). This is also weirdly why, "I'm leaving youtube" videos do so oddly well, since almost no channels create content similar to that, as their bread and butter, it pulls up a "ding" in the algorithm.

[@danjal87nl]

Just my 2 cents - but you're one of the few youtubers I'm (still) subscribed to because I like your content for what you as a person bring to the table. Regardless of whether that content changes or changes form? I'm convinced that the core that keeps it all together (I.E. you) will remain. I honestly wish I had more time on my plate to watch some of the Roll4It stuff aswell but I just can't find the time to dedicate to those series. (I also watched Critical Role consistently through series 1 and haven't found the time to even start on series 2 - even as I was still watching some Roll4It series airing around the time that started. So good on you guys there!) I reckon that's part of what KZbin is running into with a lot of people favoring more stand-alone content. Because it's hard to commit to long-form with all the new content coming out all the time.

[@Dirt1061]

sorry to hear your on hard times! I have not been seeing any of your lets plays in my recommended feed, but this one appeared. All the support to you!

[@garrulous_gnome]

Hey EE! I absolutely adored Let's Plays on your channel. My content consumption methods mean that I binge 4-5 episodes on 2x when I have time. That means - I can't do twitch and I find the constant interruptions and interactions on Twitch VoD distracting (I'm sure they're lovely when you are there, but not in a recording). Your narrative style was the most enjoyable for me. So, in line with the other commentators, I think post-facto editing the description of a pilot episode to mention the "dump" channel/playlist (or via pinned comment) is one way to go about it. You can port the entire series if the first few episodes show engagement. Another possibility is to create a summary video of the entire series in a youtube friendly format -> and then post the entire series. Unfortunately this does require you to pre-record the whole thing before hand, so time investment may happen for series that don't do well. One way around that is to maybe record phases and create summaries of those, gauge interest and go from there KZbin's algo is terrible for pushing things like these, I'm saddened they are stressing you out.

[@VXTauspectre]

Long (6, 7ish years) time viewer here: Hate to see the algorithm has become a problem for you because the content is so damn good. A lot of people are recommending moving to twitch and I'd be inclined to agree with them. I don't often catch any streams live but if they are saved as VODs even temporarily I would absolutely be subbing to you on there and watching when I can. Your content will work in any format because of your talent as a creator, so if you go to streaming-heavy or even whatever the algorithm wants (is it short videos nowadays?) I know I'd be sticking around!

[@matthewbaird9809]

I can’t say I’ve been a super active viewer, recently, and I can’t say I have any super useful advice, but I am thankful for all you’ve done over the years, introducing me to all the Paradox strategy games and all the other fun moments on the channel. You’ve had a big effect on my gaming experience. All I can say is this: “Carry on my wayward son. There’ll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary head to rest. Don’t you cry no more.” Best of luck. See you around. You’ll get through this one way or another; I believe in you.

[@mr.narwhal547]

You and aavak were the first two channels I subbed to on KZbin and you guys not only introduced me to the games I love (paradox and other stratagems). But you also introduced me to Dungeons and dragons through your warhammer 40000 series on Roll4it and now I GM games for my friends. Thank you for all the content you’ve done EE!

[@jordanmurphy6703]

I'll admit, I haven't watched many of your videos recently, but I haven't watched much YT recently in general, but as a fan of strategy games and 4X games myself, your channel has been a huge help in letting me experience the game without buying myself and helping me make a decision on whether I want to purchase it or not. And it's nice if I decide not to buy a game, I can just watch a let's play to experience it myself without buying it.

[@ryanisham]

Hey EE I've been here for 7 years was drawn in by world War K I haven't had the excess in funds to justify supporting in patreon although I would love to. In my opinion it would be detrimental to the future development of the channel and I would recommend as another commenter mentioned doing an episode of lets try and then stream it if there's enough demand for it your time permitting and keep the series that to well on KZbin on KZbin in order to strengthen the base of your channel and repair the foundation of the channel or something like that honestly I'd love to be able to watch you going even further into the future as your videos and humor have gotten me through some tough times and I'm thankful you're still here as in on KZbin don't change your bread and butter it's what we've loved for years and it's what the entire channel is based on but the pilot episode to gauge the feeling of a series is a great idea but instead of 4 hours maybe 24 hours in order to allow the majority of your viewers to get a chance to view it and have a proper reading on it

[@speedio42]

I'm not sure how long I have been subscribed to you, but I think it's been years. This is the first video in my recommended from you that I have seen in ages. I think I'll start one of your series I haven't watched yet now.

[@thefinalsurvivur6161]

Hey EE, as someone who's followed your channel for a long time, and who's avoided starting my own channel for these reasons, there's not much I can say that hasn't already been said. However, I will say that it's important for you to do what YOU want to do, not what the algorithm expects you to do. Be authentic to yourself, and the community you've built will follow you. I love your content, and being able to just sit and binge watch a series of HoI4, Wh40k, Aurora 4x, etc. can be very relaxing. As you said, 2020 has sucked for pretty much everyone, but cheers to you for explaining the situation and reaching out to the community. Best of luck. o7

[@paulkauphart9444]

I haven't watched anything in a while because lack of time, but this was interesting to watch because it does confirm a trend I've noticed over the last couple of year. As for thoughts, many have commented, move the long series to an "archive" channel, and keep this one for vlogs, highlights and stuff. If you can't really do twitch live, maybe try to roll episodes on twitch as live premieres, while you hang out in the chat providing commentary or answering questions. I have no idea if that'd work though, because it's not commonly done. Wish you the best, and hope you'll find your path in these uncertain KZbin times.

[@dillonschmidt4023]

I've seen more than a few let's players moving over to twitch to stream the let's play and then have the edited version on KZbin for those who missed the stream instead of watching the whole vod. I have no idea what would work for you, I hope you can keep doing what you love as I've been a fan for a few years now. Thanks for the update either way.

[@hollowbasher6551]

I've loved watching your content for years and looking at others who post the same type of content I notice post shorter videos, hardly ever going past 30 minutes of content. Perhaps the answer lies in attempting to go back to 25-30 minutes long and we can go from there.

[@DrClumber]

As someone with a fledgling Let's Play channel I am really pleased you raised this issue. I am not pleased to hear it though, I watch loads of Let's Play KZbinrs and genuinely like the format. I have however noticed that since restarting my Let's Play content I've not had anywhere near the traction that I had when I first started. Time to rethink strategy. I'm thinking regular streaming is the way forward...

[@gnaskar]

The question you have to ask is can you afford to ignore the whims of the algorithm until it swings back to long form content or stops penalizing channels for poor videos? If you like making the kind of videos your subscribers like, and you make enough from patreon and roll4it that you don't need the algorithm in order to be stable financially, then you can just say fuck it and let yourself be stagnated for a while. The algorithm is going to change again, and in the meantime there will always be people looking for the kind of long form content you excel at. They'll find you, even if they have to trickle in from google searches and good old word of mouth. And when the winds do change, you'll be the guy with the massive backlog of videos.

[@petriew2018]

the problem with trying to wait it out is youtube is run by utter morons who seem determined to self-sabotage. KZbin is far more likely to collapse entirely than actually fix itself right now.

[@Pixie1001.]

Yeah, and his problem isn't even with youtube not giving him ad rev. It's that his channel is literally being suffociated by the algorithm. If nobody's seeing the video, then that means nobody new is coming in to support him on patreon as well.

[@gnaskar]

@@Pixie1001. but his current patrons will still get email updates about videos so will presumably still see them.

[@Pixie1001.]

gnaskar Right, but you can't just rely on the same 20 or whatever people - he needs to be bringing in new viewers to the channel to replace his patrons as they stop subbing.

[@LordPecka]

Partial solution: Use a second channel (Extra Elysium or other) to continue the "weak" series - if it does poorly, move it to other channel, if it does great - well great! That way you can at least get something out of the content already made, be open to resurrections, keep the current fan base (we kinda like your let's plays me thinks) and not drag the main channel down.

[@CrazyLama189]

This actually sounds like a really good solution 🤔 Seeing as it won't matter whether the second channel does terrible in respect to youtube algorithms. Hopefully EE reads this

[@EnterElysium]

Sadly I don't really have the time to double up on series by posting them over there and others on the main channel - and if I post them there and nothing on the main channel then the main takes a hit from not posting. :(

[@tony_xu]

@@EnterElysium You can start a series on the main channel and once episode viewership drops below a certain level, just post the rest of the series in you second channel. This way your main channel won't get hurt and people who want to finish the series can still do.

[@tony_xu]

Also, make the first few episodes shorter than usual, let's say around 15 mins, to encourage people to click & to appease YT algo god. You can revert back to 30-40 min video on the second channel's episodes.

[@legatelaurie]

@@tony_xu Sadly, youtube tends to not recommend channels which don't upload as regularly, so if he moved some content from his main channel then he'd still lose out

[@davideek8248]

Completely new viewer here, I just checked out your channel after I saw the CK3 video. I personally loved your CK3 video, and how you set up the "roleplay" aspect in it. That is the kind of content I like to watch. The problem I have with Let's Plays is that it just drags on and on. I don't want to watch the years where nothing happens, but I also don't want to miss something that does happen. Maybe a hybrid is worth considering? Longer sections where something is happening, but condensed to those specific wars, or whatever it may be.

[@LyrikTech]

Hey EE, I've been subscribed since the original WWK. I've come in and out over the years but I gotta say that every series of yours I'ved watched I've really thoroughly enjoyed. Wherever you decide to go with the channel, I'm sure you'll make great content!

[@Beltonius]

I was going to say that WWK was what brought my to your channel in the first place and I think was a truly unique thing not found anywhere else on YT. I dont know what the 'modern' version of that is, but I think it's been some of the stuff you've done that's stood out from the crowd the most.

[@barrywickenheiser]

I'm late to the party as usual but I really enjoy your let's play videos. The long series are my favorite to have running while I'm working in the background. I'll be sad to see them go.

[@cheeseyoger]

Man, the algorithm really does hate you. I was dying for Frost Punk content in 2018 and searched all over for it, but I never found the Extra Elysium stream videos. I don't really have a solution to offer, but I at least wanted to mention that happening; sometimes just sharing info about what happens on youtube helps figure out how things work/don't work. Good luck, man

[@derekanderson6708]

"I don't know" is the most important answer to any question, because it is important if it is true. Never, ever, feel pressured to NOT say "I don't know".Thank you for the video. I hope you do something you like and is successful for you. Also: I believe that there is a pretty committed audience to the longform strategy LPs (HoI, specifically), and I am a member of that. I hope you continue those, I really do. I am a YT premium member if that makes a difference.

[@ChrisEvans66]

I run into the same issue on my let's play channel where the first video of a series always does the best. What I found that helps is I play about 4 or 5 games in rotation. I'll start one game, do another game, then another and so on and when I come back to that first game it's like new again and keeps the views high. But that's the formula that's been working for me and that way the audience is always seeing something different with every upload and they don't get bored watching the same game for months on end. Hope you figure it out brotha! 🤘

[@nathanmackenzie8323]

Hope you find your footing mate. I found your channel during the depths of the lockdown, trying to work from home with my infant boy. Your Stellaris runs are a bit of sunshine in an otherwise cloudy time.

[@joannaatkinson235]

If it's any consolation, your videos still pop up in my recommended - especially the Let's Plays. I keep coming back because of your style. Maybe that's my age too, maybe I'm not representative of the users of youtube, but I would really miss it if you stopped Let's Plays. Indeed, I *have* been missing your content. Was glued to the Hearts of Iron IV Spanish Anarchist series. I don't know how this kills your channel, but it seems that it is. Wherever you decide to post your Let's Play content and in whatever format, I will seek it out - but that won't keep you financially afloat. I, too, have no answers.

[@Lucien1057]

Hey EE, another long time viewer like many others who've chimed in. I just want to let you know that I appreciate all of the great content you've put out over the years and I understand if you decide to go another direction entirely. I know you mentioned on your video that you wouldn't want to move over to Twitch and start doing regularly scheduled streams, but I think a hybrid role like that could probably suit your channel. Quill18 and ChristopherOdd are probably two of the examples to point to here, they're both people who still manage to put out regular Let's Play content, which then are supplemented with streams that can then also get uploaded as VOD's to KZbin. Another example you could look to, although he's sort of a different genre (mostly roguelikes and indie games) is Wanderbots. He streams regularly, but he streams essentially as a way to record his content for YT, which he'll then break up into 30ish minute intervals. This method lets him keep a lot of the chat interactions like thanking subscribers off camera through the magic of editing though he'll still interact with chat in a more natural dialogue. It's sort of the happy medium between just using YT to dump VOD's and still creating long-form content. Either way though I can understand if you don't want to make that leap and I'll be looking forward to you finding something that works for you.

[@NoremacEcallaw]

Hey EE, I'm sorry to hear your channel is running into problems. I really enjoy your content and tend to watch it in bulk when my health isn't great (which sadly is more often than I would like) as it is longer form and that's what I need at those times. You also taught me how to play many of the games I regularly play like hoi4 and eu4. I am afraid that it may be viewers like myself who watch sporadically in bulk that are part of your problem with youtube as I know that it weighs the first day's views far more heavily than views weeks and months later. I don't know if I have any real advice, and from reading the comments I know there are already plenty of supportive messages, but it felt wrong not to comment, if for nothing else than an extra comment would help with youtube stuff. I would be sad to see the long form lets plays go but you need to do what is best for you. Hope you can get something workable for you sorted

[@marcusabroad386]

I started watching through your early Roll4its with Splattercat. He changed the format of his channel from long form "let's plays" to lightly-/ un-edited "look at this cool game for 30 minutes" format; he does longer form gaming on Twitch (though I suppose an EE2 youtube channel with "links to later episodes in the description" could also work). Regardless, I've always enjoyed your content and style, and hope it continues in some form for many years to come!

[@criseist9786]

My biggest issue is KZbin simply decided to stop showing me your videos, despite the fact that I've been subbed since world war kerbin. I may not like every game you play, but I enjoy you and your personality. Hope things start to get better for you. Ironically, this is the first video of yours KZbin has shown me in quite a while (Edit: 14 hours after it was posted though. Thanks, Susan.)

[@LeeAnnToomashie]

Hey EE, I just wanted you to know I appropriate your content. You were one of the very first youtubers and helped me so much in Frost punk. I do feel that trying pilot episodes maybe a great idea, least that way you would still get to play the games that suit you, and at least its not 7 episodes of edited content that you end up not being about to share. Thanks for your time and I wish you the best of luck!

[@irvingjohnsonhumphrey8167]

Hey EE, I love you, your channel, and your work with Roll4it(fan since shadowrun season 1 :3). I also like videos from splattercat, who, I'm sure you know have moved into his role as an indie game "Let's Try" channel with some longer form stuff on twitch. At first I was sad to see splat's longer-form shows go, but it seemed like a few years ago, he talked to some other creators and had the realization that in order to do youtube, he had to change up his format. Over time, I grew to enjoy the new indie game test episodes also. (relying on them for some solid recommendations) This isn't to say that that path is the same one you should take, but I do wanna say that I really enjoy your stuff because of you. Your wit, your honesty, and your characteristic hijinks. So really, whatever way you decide to go with the channel, that's what keeps me coming back. Thanks for reading and having the courage to ask for input

[@Nakavian]

I'm sorry to hear about the issues mate. I for one really enjoy your content, the vast majority of it actually. You've really been a wonderful break from all the COVID crap going on here in the U.S., and the bleak news. I hope you can figure something out.

[@pakkenpk5598]

The reason for making a channel is to record you doing something you enjoy. I'll watch just about anything from you just because of your personality. I wouldn't mind seeing you do more videos in this format just talking about some things you enjoy or just going over whatever. The episode one idea isn't bad, pilots are a thing for a reason, right. Mix up the let's plays with other stuff like that. Do what you want and do what you enjoy, when you don't know what to do, live stream something like this and we'll work as a community to help you out man

[@Oskiirrr]

Hi, EE. I sadly don't have much help to offer but I would at like to take this opportunity to say thank you. Since the Kerbal days your let's plays have always been there to help me get away from my day to day life and just sit down and enjoy something for a bit and on top of that you have introduced me to many of my favorite games of all time. Thank you. And I hope you find a way to keep on bringing people joy here on the channel going forwards as well❤️

[@arigentum]

It's been 3 years or so since this video was posted, so I am unsure if you will see this. I personally have seen the effects of this first hand, I was never even recommended this video, nor any of your videos actually. I tend to watch what is in my subscriber box / recommended feed, as you mentioned. I remember watching your content all the time and now never seeing any of your content is upsetting. I'm sure it is distressing for you as well. I am unsure where you ought to go going forwards, and my tardiness is far to late to offer my input. KZbin has seemingly become even more hostile towards let's play and long form strategy content. Somewhere in the Algorithm there is still some room for Let's plays. Last few months a smaller channel around 5k sub had a series take off, with the whole series sustaining an order of magnitude more views than any other series or video on their channel. Perhaps its a case of lightning in a bottle? What I've noticed is multiplayer content seems to better than solo content as well, if that is something you might be interested in. More than once I've stopped watching a series simply because KZbin steers me other directions until I remember the series itself and manually have to rediscover it. Like your channel, which is sad as I really love your content.

[@DextorPlays]

Rather small KZbinr here also posting long form lets plays. I subbed to your channel a VERY long time ago for a few reasons. First, you covered the type of games I like to play and watching someone else helps me to develop my own strategies. Second is you are an intelligent strategist, I often get frustrated and unsub other channels for bad gameplay. More recently, you have continued on my subs because you have helped me to develop my own KZbin style. For all that, thank you. Unfortunately, I feel like a child in the room with the parents discussing budget problems. You can have my allowance if that helps? Please post a follow up if you figure this out.

[@railbaron1]

I seen a group do a sorta "Round Robin" Let's Play of the _Rule the Waves_ games (You should look into those games) which is about being Fleet Admiral of a Nation's Navy from 1900 to 1925 (Rule the Waves 1) or 1955 (Rule the Waves 2) One person would do like 4 or 5 videos then pass the save to the next person. The Idea being the passing of the save would represent one Admiral leaving and a new one taking his place. That way the successor always had to cope with the ships and budget his predecessor left him while trying to run the navy his way. I honestly don't think this kind of format will help the channel, but it would be an interesting experiment.

[@coachgarryclimbing]

As someone new to creating content on KZbin, I very much appreciate your openness and vulnerability. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@benja1709]

What you are talking about from 8 min to 9 min, about how a strategy game needs a series in order to function, i completely agree with you. For me personally i just can't sit down and watch a 1 hour episode. To me 20-25 min episodes are a lot more manageable. I love the old Europa Universalis IV series you did, because the episodes was around 20 - 25 min long, and it was really fun to watch you go from small beginnings to large empire. Hearts of iron 4 was a little bit in the same way, but quickly became repetitive. Edit: OH GOD Please don't move to twitch, i really do not like that format! TL:DR I like the lets play format, but with shorter episodes.

[@brandoncarlson5468]

Hey buddy, I have been watching you on and off for years. I appreciate alot of your stuff! First a comment, then suggestion then a final comment lol... I have been rewatching alot of your old roll 4 it videos and man you were an inspired and generally happy GM. It was so fun watching you guys. That said, would you consider doing a RP series and playing through the divinity 2 engine (Which i notice, not a whole lot of people use) and making a series that way? If not using people you already know, maybe consider opening up and randomizing patrons. Getting the community involved with something like that would be an amazing thing! You also seem to enjoy putting lots of though and character into you worlds too. I can see a second season have a fresh new set of characters and having cameos from the first season... man would be very cool. I know you love 4x games and cater your channel to it. But its such a narrow scope of gamers that watch it. The series are long and yes interesting, but takes alot of commitment from your viewers. Lots of love bud and wish you the best :)

[@afishynado6812]

Love your videos - I was never into Let's Plays before I started watching your Frostpunk vids.

[@WeaselZen]

It sounds like a very difficult situation. Maybe you could go similar to the way that Splattercat went and do a mix of first impressions and maybe continue with more long-term let's plays for the ones that do really well (going from the idea of the pilot episodes you mentioned). Maybe having a smaller "volume" of videos and only two or three deeply invested let's plays going at once (kinda like Gopher style)? I dunno, but I hope you find a solution that keeps this fun or at least fulfilling for you. Love your content and love all the roll4it stuff you guys do.

[@klydon1291]

I also wanted to weigh in with my observations and comments. First up front, I don't watch a lot of your content simply because I work and don't have a lot of time (what time I have, I would rather be playing something, etc). About 30 min at a time is max for me (basically watch while eating and then what is left is short enough I can get it in before moving onto the next item of what I would like to do). I find you to be an excellent provider and you know the games you are playing. In addition, you strike a great balance between being entertaining and letting people know what is going on. What got me hooked on you was Frost Punk. I bought the game because of you and a lot of the success I had in the game was because of things I picked up watching you play. I also have time zone issues, so watching live stream doesn't work out that well either. I have not really made the jump in to Twitch or some of the other streaming platforms for some of the same reasons (IE, I work and would rather be playing than just sitting and watch someone else play). If I had more time to watch, you would be on the short list of providers I would be watching more of if I can get a better balance of watching vs the desire to play with available time. I wish I had some suggestions/solutions for your issue and I don't like that there are not more choices out there since You Tube is basically using their muscle to dictate how things have to be in order to be "successful". Good luck to you and hope you can find a solution to your predicament and that you will be able to continue to provide the excellent content you have been doing. One last thing: this video did make it to my suggested list as I was browsing through one night, but I have not seen a suggested video by you in a while either.

[@mjswanson327]

Sorry to hear you're having struggles. I hope you find a way to work it all out.

[@maddincgm]

I would realy enjoy a community LP... Its a kind of roleplay-strategy LP where you and the YT member talk about or "vote" for "whats happen next" in the game... Its a good way to bring the community you and the game together...

[@Mr._Matt]

My favorite part of this video was the little ramble about being a "fanatic." Now I'm imagining 40K Chaos cultists, except dedicated to Enter Elysium. There would be entire worlds wrought with tabletop roleplaying and making Let's Play videos from sun up to sun down. Jokes aside, I'm sorry that you're having a tough time with KZbin of late. I'd really like a site to come about that's basically what KZbin was before it went to hell in a handbag. And I can't make an account on Twitch because all decent username variations of "Mr. Matt" are taken and I'm petty. =/

[@_ExTitus]

Whether you decide to adapt your format, change platform, or any other option, I don't think it's the end of the channel either way. I never forget the vids I watch of yours and enjoy watching them all, pretty much irregardless of what game it is. I did notice I had to be extremely deliberate when looking for your vids and I hate that. I hope you find a preferable solution

[@Dyl6886]

Just an idea, you could try and use the community page and maybe have a poll where people can vote on what the next series could be. This might help a bit to prevent first episodes flopping and setting a grim tone for the rest of the series.

[@josephsteven1600]

Thank you EE, not sure what recommend but hope for the best. Man KZbin is so screwy. Honestly wish it didn't have to be this way with regards to the algorithms.

[@josephsteven1600]

Adding to this, one try out form might be the best "Shot in the dark" not sure. I am very sorry that I'm next to useless when it comes to this.

[@zaraxxis1466]

As somebody who got into your channel originally with World War K, and hasn't been following it much recently on account of lack of time and frankly the overwhelming about of stuff on here sometimes I'd love to see more WWK. But I'm biased.. But, I think you could probably break it down, make a metric or something to help you with the decision. Seems like you've got two or three problems but primarily: 1. Both long duration grand strategy and small scale tactical strategy games are a niche genre, so your potential audience base is already much more limited than with other more broad-reaching genres 2. KZbin's algorithm prioritization system, which among the things you mentioned also ties in with point 1. You've probably got a few solutions that could broadly summed up as: 1. add on more streaming content either via a separate platform or via youtube, so less time for making dedicated videos, and more for the streams as mentioned 2. change your general video format to cut down times on videos as you mentioned, but of course that limits what kind of games can be included there 3. just generally change the types of games covered on the channel. I saw you put out a video on world of warships recently, no idea if that's a game up your alley or not but it might have a slightly wider audience base. so covering more stuff like that might at least expand your potential audience base and thus view counts. 4. you could start making entirely different content in some degree. I recall you built extraelysium originally to do more science/gaming news stuff ages ago but I don't know how well that went. but its an interesting option and I think you'd make a great presenter for that sort of thing. But those are just options and you've probably considered most of them anyways. Its not really for me to say since, again, I'm barely on here and (ironically) I only saw this video because of the dreaded algorithm but I'd love to see more WWK, or more science coverage, or history stuff. Or just maybe some different games covered a bit more. Honestly, watching you stream sounds pretty fun as well. I think that might make strategy games a bit more interesting and you could do 2-3 hour sessions which to me is how I like to both play things like Stellaris and watch it as well. Hope that's helpful. Either way, hope you manage to figure it out, I really should stop by the channel more often there's some excellent content on here and I overlook it far too often.

[@robinvanzyl]

While I cannot offer any advice. I love how honest you are about why you dislike something. I also love putting your playlists on when my mental health is low, as i enjoy your commentary and how it always feels genuine and not fake.

[@northernnaysayer]

This is a hard watch, you got me onto the platform years ago, and I've noticed that the loose confederation of gamers that helped each other seems to have drifted apart a bit(you, lionheart, Jackie, Warrior, Darren, Splatt etc) and views have dropped on most channels. The highest promoted vids that I get nowadays are either Roll1D2(I think you would get along well with Sam) and Spiff, both memolgists of the highest order and both can produce gimmicky content, but they can be very entertaining when they hit a topic or game I am interested in. The reason I have always loved your content is because when there's a topic you have interest in, your enthusiasm, wit and intelligence shows and its a pleasure to watch. Its better to ask for help than fail from stubbornness, hopefully you can rejig and come back stronger than ever(because let's be honest a quarter of a million subs isn't something to sniff at), just make sure whatever you do gives you some joy! And as always: comments for the comment Gods!

[@aritapper4279]

Hey EE, I don't really have a solution for you sorry to say but I do really just want to say thank you. I found your channel through you KSP videos and from there you've ignited my interest in many other games and fictional universes. Without finding your channel I would have never started playing the XCOM games, I likely would never have gotten interested in the world of 40k, and much more. So, I just want you to know that whatever path you do end up going down with your channel, I think that I, and much of the rest of your viewer base, will follow in one form or another. Again, thank you very much for everything.

[@manicpixiedckgirl]

9:00 I agree, it's definitely the beard. I dunno how to fix this, apart from the Twitch thing which you already know. I'm the same as you, I quite like long form, LP stuff. Of the two options presented, I prefer the pilot episode idea. I also like the idea of more short form one offs, so long as it doesn't become exclusively what the channel is about.

[@piebrostheman]

Maybe release videos of youre livestreams of the long games as a vod format maybe

[@lawrenceblade4437]

I think this is a great idea!

[@remilawrence4962]

Unfortunately the algorithm hates long videos which vods are and it also dislikes when content creators direct their viewers away from youtube hence why the "hey im streaming now on such and such" announcement vids stopped happening in general

[@thegreatgildersneeze]

@@remilawrence4962 this, and unless a streamer locally records the content, a lot of youtube viewers are put off by things such as "reading tip/resub comments," or "follow alerts," and all the stuff that makes up a typical twitch stream. Plus, it gives that special "fomo" feeling when the creator is interacting/having a conversation with people who aren't the youtube audience (since the conversation will be with people who were there to watch the live stream). Finally, they do less views overall because of audience overlap. Twitch and KZbin viewers aren't exclusive sets of people. People who watched it live on twitch are probably not going to come watch the same thing they just watched over here during the most important time of a YT vid's existence: the first few hours after upload. Making the channel a twitch dump isn't a solution, unfortunately.

[@petriew2018]

KZbin currently hates anything that's over 10 minutes because 20 of those get more 'hits' than 1 200 minute video, and they can shoehorn in more ads. the algorithms will actively steer people away from such content because it's not as profitable to them. The longer a video, the less add breaks and the less likely for multiple viewings, so youtube buries it.

[@williamvergerwolf150]

I stated watching for XCom and From the Depths, I stopped (but didn't unsub) when the focus became Stellaris and Mount & Blade. After moving on, KZbin stopped suggesting you and I didn't see the new XCom series. I do follow you on Twitch, I just don't watch streams as often as I do videos. I don't know what to suggest you do either, but thank you for the update. I'm still a fan and hoping the best for you, stay shiny!

[@Davidletter3]

There already seems to be some great advice in the comments so I am going to be that token guy saying that I'll still support you no matter what EE. I always find my self looking to your channel among a select few when I want a series to dive into. My advice would be as others have already suggested : maybe experiment with a second channel, using this for promotion and channel 2 for long plays. Apart from that I'd say carry on with what you love. Don't bend to fit around the algorithm just for the sake of hoop jumping. As you said there is definitely a solution and it doesn't involve you giving up on what you love doing.

[@Qfeys]

I'm actually kind of surprised that the current 'meta' is 10 minute videos. I still remember many (10?) years ago when youtube videos were mostly 5 to 15 minutes, and later 20 to 30 minutes. At some point, people started complaining that youtube wanted longer videos, which lead to videos that were regularly an hour long, which I always thought was a bit long. What I want to say is I feel like I might not be a bad idea to go back to the 20 to 30 minute format. It's a bit more bite-sized, and watching multiple videos back to back is super convenient, especially if the intro and outro are not too long. I'm not sure if this will help, but it's an idea.

[@PreacherBro]

Glad to hear that your okay. Hadn't seen ya post for a while and was worried something happened. Hopefully a solution is found couldn't stand to see yet another of my favorite you tubers killed by its terrible algorithm. Only suggestion I have is make this the main channel for pilots, sponsorships, possibly edited videos, and start a second channel where you post the more poorly received videos. Stay strong.

[@Spy653]

This makes me so sad to see months later, I used to love watching your videos but had to search out the channel to see this.

[@Strategicalgamer_1]

Hello EE, just a little message of encouragement. I have been watching your channel for years and thoroughly enjoy your content. I understand you’re feeling despondent at this moment in time but I would suggest continuing on with the format that you have been doing. I understand your concerns with the algorithm but I feel that if you change your format too much then it wouldn’t come across as well let your personality shine and as ever stay shiny

[@FrazzzYT]

From what I can tell, pilots can work as a good gauge of if something has life or not. I wouldn't go deleting them as I think that could end up harming it in the long run much worse than the other method. I stepped back and looked at my own content, games that have a "start, mid, end" all in one video reign surpreme. Even if its the same game itself in the video. From a scheduling point I've taking that story based or longer formed "continued series" has like a show slot twice weekly and other content does the rest. It appears to be working but it has been hard to go down the "if this is doing poorly cancel it" route. As you want to continue it but for channels to survive we kinda have to now.

[@blockrock44]

Sorry to hear things are rough with the channel. Been enjoying a good amount of your content for quite some time, and I unfortunately don't have any suggestions really. I know one KZbinr I am watching, Captainsparklz, is trying to move to making less but far higher quality videos; he still intends on doing series (of Minecraft), but just uploading like one or two videos a week rather than his usual one a day. Of course, he has not expressed that his channel is dying, but has noted that KZbin doesn't favor super long let's plays really. His latest vlog explains the new uploading format if you are interested in hearing his actual thoughts. I hope things can improve for the channel, and I will miss your content if things don't improve.

[@tlpineapple1]

Ive been with you for about 5 years now and it pains me to see you this way. I can also understand how much the algorithm has messed with you cause ive barely seen your content appear even while im subscribed. I know you're not a big fan of scheduled livestreams, but ive noticed many providers are much happier over at twitch. It may be worth a try to just announce when you'll be live in a discord community and then upload the vods to youtube later. I hope you're able to figure something out. Id hate to see another creator that i love to die on youtube.

[@constantinvaldor703]

....sad thing is I have all my stuff to alert me for videos and I was just now notified of this. EE this Shiny will stand with you until the end. I found you through battle fleet gothic and I have not regretted being your subscriber and fan once

[@danoobboss8780]

personally, I think youtube needs to fix there shit it is broken. I love the longer videos and as someone with insomnia on nights where even my meds are not helping i will put on one of your longer series and watch until i can finally pass out. do hope everything gets figured out and sorry I have missed so many of your vids forgot I never had the bell on

[@Kraus-]

This is the first video from EE that has shown up for me in a few months. A second channel to host series while gaming the algorithm with the main channel is what a lot of people are doing now.

[@ninjabogan5167]

as a watcher of your vids for about 1 year now yes you may have some vids i may not watch but you always have somthing i like watching and i like the long lets plays I say just keep doing you dude.

[@stuchris]

what Ive seen some content creators on YT do is reserve a second channel for longer content like lets-plays, stream vods and stuff, and keep the *recommended content* on the main channel?

[@nathangreenberg195]

One solution I’ve seen other channels do is stream all let’s plays. Post the first half hour (first episode, if you will) of content off that stream as the first episode to KZbin, and see how it goes from there. That way if it crashes on KZbin you still benefit from the twitch stream and haven’t completely wasted your time. From there upload the remaining chunks of the starting stream if the pilot does well, and continue as a traditional let’s play or as a streamed series uploaded to KZbin. (Quill18 does this a lot, if you want to talk details with him). Also, Aurora 4x is now on C#, I’d love to see a new series

[@crazydied2792]

@EnterElysium, something you could do to avoid scheduled twitch streams is get a discord server if you don’t have one already, and use that to announce before each stream that way you don’t have to feel obligated to stream at certain times, that would also allow you to only stream when you want to. It would also be another way for us all to talk about your vids and give suggestions. Heck a few of my friends and I would make a server for you if you wanted.

[@ineedfriends123g6]

Since I don’t use sub feed often I entirely forgot about this channel even though his content is amazing, youtube just isn’t recommending your videos.

[@thepizzaheman]

Haven't watched you since motorsport manager, but I loved your content back then and I wish you luck.

[@natheniel]

I recognise this background music. But where..?

[@GunRunner106]

the way criken does it - highlight video of a series on main channel - full batch of videos/longlonglong videos on secondary channel, that way, ppl can get both, if they want, if advertising to follow link to 2nd channel for rest of series or whatever?

[@RellePlays]

This is the exact same issue I'm having with my channel. I love the Let's Play format, I enjoy both making them and watching them, but people nowadays just don't click on the long-form LP video. Nowadays I'm doing guides, reviews, and general update videos on Gems of War, and while I'd love to get back to LPs, I have no idea where to even begin. At best I'd just waste my time, and at worst I'd tank my channel. You definitely have my sympathies. Hope you can figure out a happy medium. I considered doing something similar to Northernlion where he plays a new game a day and if the fanbase clamors for it, he does a series (short or long depending on the game). I personally can't do that because I can't afford to buy that many games.

[@metaladdict]

Hey EE, First of, my respect doing this. Admiting there is a problem is the first step in solving it. But is always the most difficult. You show more courage then some and that deserves respect. As far as advice content wise. I think you found your niche. Being enthousiastic about something is the first step in being succesfull with anything. Kind regards, Metaladdict

[@TopHatHat]

I like the idea of a "Dump Channel" for all the episodes for the people who liked the pilot, and then a main channel where you can put pilots and perhaps a short review of basic game mechanics and features to get people into the pilot and into the game itself.

[@PaulInPorirua]

I've noticed other Channels say the same thing as well. People are moving to streaming (which I hate for strategy games), or producing micro-episodes, which isn't much fun either. Maybe we have to look at other venues...