Episode 11 - The Twitch Effect and its Influence on Gaming

Aaron and Chris tackle a controversial, yet interesting topic: in what ways do video streaming sites like Twitch and YouTube contribute positively or negatively to gaming culture? In light of recent controversy surrounding Let's Plays, how are they impacting both the business and our own perspective on gaming? Chris shares a great YouTube channel focusing on the retro game hunt, and the gamers reflect on the state of gaming for arguably the biggest name in the industry: Nintendo. Finally, Chris and Aaron share their opinions of some unique titles on the NES: Wizards & Warriors and StarTropics.

Show Notes:

  1. BCG Discussion Topic - The Twitch Effect and its Influence on Gaming
    -Does streaming gaming videos help or hurt gaming, and in what ways?
    -Games come and go from the spotlight faster than ever; is this just the market, or is popularity driven by streamers?
    -Does this portion of gaming need to mature, and if so, in what ways?
    -Is the frustration over Let's Plays from developers reasonable?
  2. Found it on YouTube - The Game Chasers (http://www.thegamechasers.com)
    -Two primary hosts: Billy and Jay, accompanied by many friends along the way
    -Six seasons so far covering the game chasing adventures
    -Fun episodes comprised of seeking out games in all sorts of unique places
    -Billy and Jay are very dedicated to their craft, including producing quality content for the show
    -Disclaimer: Slightly off-color humor, so not recommended for kids or those with a aversion to that style of humor
  3. State of Gaming - Nintendo
    -How has Nintendo grown/changed over the past 15 years?
    -Are they stronger or weaker than they were in the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and now in the 2010s?
    -What were their biggest failures and weaknesses?
    -What's in store for the future?
  4. Game Assignments
    -Last Episode's Assignments: Chris - Wizards & Warriors; Aaron - StarTropics
    -Next Episode's Assignments: Chris - Fez; Aaron - Bravely Default