We're in the beginning stages of expanding our NA coverage into the other divisions aside from invite. Obviously adding more casts will tax our already pretty thin staff of casters/kurt, but I think more content (and more diverse content) is a good idea. Thus we'll need to break in some new blood, both casters and possibly cameramen (Kurt is only one man).
So the idea as of right now (dependent on many factors) is to have an IM/Main game of the week. I think a best case scenario -- instead of overlapping this cast with an invite game occurring at the same time -- would be having this game a hour or so before. This would require the IM/main teams playing in the MoTW to work with us and schedule their game appropriately. I'm aware of how much of an ask that is (nightmares of two seasons ago...), but hopefully the opportunity to be casted on TFTV will be enough enticement to overcome any scheduling issues.
These casts will also allow aspiring casters a chance to cast in front of a large audience and work with a more experienced caster. I'm down to co-cast with a fresh face, and I think we have some people eager to try.
The big question is how to figure out the logistics of these casts. Would the top IM/Main teams be willing to move games for the sake of a cast? If not, should we bust out the dreaded tftv #2 twitch channel and double cast?
It's still early, with nothing set in stone. Thoughts, community?
We're in the beginning stages of expanding our NA coverage into the other divisions aside from invite. Obviously adding more casts will tax our already pretty thin staff of casters/kurt, but I think more content (and more diverse content) is a good idea. Thus we'll need to break in some new blood, both casters and possibly cameramen (Kurt is only one man).
So the idea as of right now (dependent on many factors) is to have an IM/Main game of the week. I think a best case scenario -- instead of overlapping this cast with an invite game occurring at the same time -- would be having this game a hour or so before. This would require the IM/main teams playing in the MoTW to work with us and schedule their game appropriately. I'm aware of how much of an ask that is (nightmares of two seasons ago...), but hopefully the opportunity to be casted on TFTV will be enough enticement to overcome any scheduling issues.
These casts will also allow aspiring casters a chance to cast in front of a large audience and work with a more experienced caster. I'm down to co-cast with a fresh face, and I think we have some people eager to try.
The big question is how to figure out the logistics of these casts. Would the top IM/Main teams be willing to move games for the sake of a cast? If not, should we bust out the dreaded tftv #2 twitch channel and double cast?
It's still early, with nothing set in stone. Thoughts, community?
As a main team leader I'd be happy to move things about to help get more content out there.
Also would be down to cast when not playing ;)
Finding a cameraman/streamer though, I imagine that'll be the hardest part, it's a thankless job that's very labor intensive on the part of the person doing it.
As a main team leader I'd be happy to move things about to help get more content out there.
Also would be down to cast when not playing ;)
Finding a cameraman/streamer though, I imagine that'll be the hardest part, it's a thankless job that's very labor intensive on the part of the person doing it.
I'm down for it. Sounds like a great idea. I'd be interested in casting, as well.
I'm down for it. Sounds like a great idea. I'd be interested in casting, as well.
Couple of ideas...
Farm System - Besides Blackout TV I don't know of any casting org that is actively recruiting anybody new casters into the fold, much less providing training. New casters are basically stuck either casting STVs to Youtube or going swimming in the deep end of the TFtv stream list.
Putting some sort of system into place where new casters /streamers can be trained in the proper procedures Enigma is looking for will at a minimum ensure a standard of quality across in-house casts, and if they end up casting for someone else hopefully they'll spread that training around. Raising the bar in general. EDIT: If it helps get things into motion I would be willing to help out with this idea.
Tape Delayed Casts - If tonight proved anything, is stupid stuff can happen live and ruin the best laid plans. Perhaps for some lower-end casts these could be recorded live, briefly edited to cut pauses out, and streamed at a later time and/or date. This can also be a step toward a more fleshed out schedule of content where TFtv is streaming most of the day.
Couple of ideas...
Farm System - Besides Blackout TV I don't know of any casting org that is actively recruiting anybody new casters into the fold, much less providing training. New casters are basically stuck either casting STVs to Youtube or going swimming in the deep end of the TFtv stream list.
Putting some sort of system into place where new casters /streamers can be trained in the proper procedures Enigma is looking for will at a minimum ensure a standard of quality across in-house casts, and if they end up casting for someone else hopefully they'll spread that training around. Raising the bar in general. EDIT: If it helps get things into motion I would be willing to help out with this idea.
Tape Delayed Casts - If tonight proved anything, is stupid stuff can happen live and ruin the best laid plans. Perhaps for some lower-end casts these could be recorded live, briefly edited to cut pauses out, and streamed at a later time and/or date. This can also be a step toward a more fleshed out schedule of content where TFtv is streaming most of the day.
MarxistAlso would be down to cast when not playing ;)
I would love to see this
[quote=Marxist]Also would be down to cast when not playing ;)[/quote]
I would [i]love[/i] to see this
While I think a live match of the week for main would be nice to have, I personally would rather watch an already played game of either open or im that is of interest (with a sub only chat so no spoilers). Comebacks, 5-4's, upsets, etc. Sure the level of play isn't there but the lower divisions do deserve some coverage, and close games are always fun to watch.
While I think a live match of the week for main would be nice to have, I personally would rather watch an already played game of either open or im that is of interest (with a sub only chat so no spoilers). Comebacks, 5-4's, upsets, etc. Sure the level of play isn't there but the lower divisions do deserve some coverage, and close games are always fun to watch.
Recasts were a suggestion I had as well, but from previous statistics it didn't garner the viewers to consider continuing it.
Recasts were a suggestion I had as well, but from previous statistics it didn't garner the viewers to consider continuing it.
We need a Marxist/London casting duo to start casting IM/Main games.
We need a Marxist/London casting duo to start casting IM/Main games.
need people to carry me in casting.
need people to carry me in casting.
if this actually turns into a thing I'd be interested in trying casting some im/main games time permitting
if this actually turns into a thing I'd be interested in trying casting some im/main games time permitting
bl4nkneed people to carry me in casting.
Sezco would be cool to hear more of. (Especially more than we heard of him in the IM finals.)
[quote=bl4nk]need people to carry me in casting.[/quote]
Sezco would be cool to hear more of. (Especially more than we heard of him in the IM finals.)
this is such a good idea can't wait to watch more tf2 haha
this is such a good idea can't wait to watch more tf2 haha
I have stable internet and a solid computer for camera purposes, so I'd be interested in at least trying out camera work.
I have stable internet and a solid computer for camera purposes, so I'd be interested in at least trying out camera work.
FogRecasts were a suggestion I had as well, but from previous statistics it didn't garner the viewers to consider continuing it.
If the purpose is to try out different casters and give some recognition to the main division then recasts that are uploaded to YouTube would be good, it avoids the pains of scheduling, you can be picky about the games you cast (a boring stalematey game with relatively unknown players aren't fun to watch) and it allows anyone to be the cameraman, as long as they can upload to YouTube (just run OBS to record to disk).
I think it would be a mistake to try and force out content of 1 main cast/week because you will run into scheduling issues between the casters, cameraman and the teams so scrambling backups will only delay the cast/matches and lead to worse quality which gives first time viewers a bad impression. By all means try to hit that goal but I don't think it's imperitive and the YouTube upload option gives everyone more freedom, when things aren't rushed they usually turn out better for everyone involved.
[quote=Fog]Recasts were a suggestion I had as well, but from previous statistics it didn't garner the viewers to consider continuing it.[/quote]
If the purpose is to try out different casters and give some recognition to the main division then recasts that are uploaded to YouTube would be good, it avoids the pains of scheduling, you can be picky about the games you cast (a boring stalematey game with relatively unknown players aren't fun to watch) and it allows anyone to be the cameraman, as long as they can upload to YouTube (just run OBS to record to disk).
I think it would be a mistake to try and force out content of 1 main cast/week because you will run into scheduling issues between the casters, cameraman and the teams so scrambling backups will only delay the cast/matches and lead to worse quality which gives first time viewers a bad impression. By all means try to hit that goal but I don't think it's imperitive and the YouTube upload option gives everyone more freedom, when things aren't rushed they usually turn out better for everyone involved.
Why would the IM/main casts have to be the same day as the invite MOTWs?
Why would the IM/main casts have to be the same day as the invite MOTWs?
My guess is the longevity of the cast. A full cast can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. Doubling that amount of games could give tf2 better viewer retention. Not only will 4 different teams playing the same map at different skill levels, but also a longer broadcast time with different analysts and casters. Sounds like synergy to me.
My guess is the longevity of the cast. A full cast can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. Doubling that amount of games could give tf2 better viewer retention. Not only will 4 different teams playing the same map at different skill levels, but also a longer broadcast time with different analysts and casters. Sounds like synergy to me.
id be willing to help out with the lower league casts if anyone needs help. Also, if anyone would be interested in helping me do these weekly dispensers itd be a huge help.
id be willing to help out with the lower league casts if anyone needs help. Also, if anyone would be interested in helping me do these weekly dispensers itd be a huge help.
TurboliciousWhy would the IM/main casts have to be the same day as the invite MOTWs?
They don't have to be, but the way most games are scheduled most of the time they overlap each other
[quote=Turbolicious]Why would the IM/main casts have to be the same day as the invite MOTWs?[/quote] They don't have to be, but the way most games are scheduled most of the time they overlap each other
supcbear
Id like it if you could maybe possibly have Coined Terms for type of casts.
TFTV MATCH CAST: normal setup with maybe 3rd person for half time or filler stuff
TFTV CHILL CAST: much more relaxed viewing experience maybe with music in the background. For people to be able to understand some basic concepts and feel much more intertactive with casteres.
TFTV INVITE CAST: 2 high level (Main+) cast and bring a much more indepth stuff -- essentially for people trying to go from OPEN to Indust.
Prob alot of work, but I thought it might attract more casters and develop some steady following.
supcbear
Id like it if you could maybe possibly have Coined Terms for type of casts.
TFTV MATCH CAST: normal setup with maybe 3rd person for half time or filler stuff
TFTV CHILL CAST: much more relaxed viewing experience maybe with music in the background. For people to be able to understand some basic concepts and feel much more intertactive with casteres.
TFTV INVITE CAST: 2 high level (Main+) cast and bring a much more indepth stuff -- essentially for people trying to go from OPEN to Indust.
Prob alot of work, but I thought it might attract more casters and develop some steady following.
Set times. Thursday 11est always an invite cast. Thursday at 10 always a main cast, etc. Coordinate the week prior so schedulers can move shit around. Worst case, schedules conflict and something doesn't happen. Keep it consistent like fully charged and youll gather a huge following looking for the daily/weekly tf2 cast. To all esea leaders/schedulers, work with whatever schedule they come out with and be on time this season.
Set times. Thursday 11est always an invite cast. Thursday at 10 always a main cast, etc. Coordinate the week prior so schedulers can move shit around. Worst case, schedules conflict and something doesn't happen. Keep it consistent like fully charged and youll gather a huge following looking for the daily/weekly tf2 cast. To all esea leaders/schedulers, work with whatever schedule they come out with and be on time this season.
PYYYOURTFTV CHILL CAST: much more relaxed viewing experience maybe with music in the background. For people to be able to understand some basic concepts and feel much more intertactive with casteres.
TFTV INVITE CAST: 2 high level (Main+) cast and bring a much more indepth stuff -- essentially for people trying to go from OPEN to Indust.
I'd vote to combine these two (occasionally).
Viewers get the benefit of getting first hand tf2 knowledge and a more personal way to interact with their favorite players.
The players, who are busy enough as it is, will have more fun if they're allowed to be relaxed and casual, and would be more likely to offer their time to do it.
Seanbud cast one of the first matches of S14. It was informative and entertaining in ways that regular casts aren't, and it seemed like the casters were having a fun time as well.
[quote=PYYYOUR]
TFTV CHILL CAST: much more relaxed viewing experience maybe with music in the background. For people to be able to understand some basic concepts and feel much more intertactive with casteres.
TFTV INVITE CAST: 2 high level (Main+) cast and bring a much more indepth stuff -- essentially for people trying to go from OPEN to Indust.
[/quote]
I'd vote to combine these two (occasionally).
Viewers get the benefit of getting first hand tf2 knowledge and a more personal way to interact with their favorite players.
The players, who are busy enough as it is, will have more fun if they're allowed to be relaxed and casual, and would be more likely to offer their time to do it.
Seanbud cast one of the first matches of S14. It was informative and entertaining in ways that regular casts aren't, and it seemed like the casters were having a fun time as well.
Whatever you decide on just make sure to stick to a schedule. As a viewer it really helps knowing exactly when I can tune in to always see a game being casted.
Whatever you decide on just make sure to stick to a schedule. As a viewer it really helps knowing exactly when I can tune in to always see a game being casted.
I'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?
I'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?
Wednesdays/Thursdays at 10pm are the most popular days for matches (I can never find a server available during those times). If you check the ESEA schedule page for Main matches, you'll likely find one that's competitive; especially after the first half of the season where teams are matched up according to their records. You don't have to force people to play at certain times. It's hard enough to schedule matches already, with the limited servers and differing time zones, school schedules etc.
Wednesdays/Thursdays at 10pm are the most popular days for matches (I can never find a server available during those times). If you check the ESEA schedule page for Main matches, you'll likely find one that's competitive; especially after the first half of the season where teams are matched up according to their records. You don't have to force people to play at certain times. It's hard enough to schedule matches already, with the limited servers and differing time zones, school schedules etc.
The only problem I have with tf.tv streams is punctuality (I know it's not your fault, but the teams). When I'm told a match is going live at 11:30, I expect to tune in then to see two teams go live, enjoy it, and be flossing my teeth at 12.
I think any other problems that exist are secondary.
The only problem I have with tf.tv streams is punctuality (I know it's not your fault, but the teams). When I'm told a match is going live at 11:30, I expect to tune in then to see two teams go live, enjoy it, and be flossing my teeth at 12.
I think any other problems that exist are secondary.
Mr_OwlI'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?
I imagine a lot of people would be interested to see casts of Budsquad games from time to time...
[quote=Mr_Owl]I'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?[/quote]
I imagine a lot of people would be interested to see casts of Budsquad games from time to time...
ThufirMr_OwlI'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?
I imagine a lot of people would be interested to see casts of Budsquad games from time to time...
That's certainly true, and I'm sure the Budsquad would show up on casts, but my goal with open casts would be more to showcase up-and-coming players who will be making a splash in IM/Main in just a season or two. People know the 'stars' for lack of a better term. I think there'd be at least some interest in getting to know those who could be challenging those stars down the line.
[quote=Thufir][quote=Mr_Owl]I'd be interested in doing coverage of open if you wanted to extend it down that far. Maybe not a weekly thing, but filler on slow weeks or something?[/quote]
I imagine a lot of people would be interested to see casts of Budsquad games from time to time...[/quote]
That's certainly true, and I'm sure the Budsquad would show up on casts, but my goal with open casts would be more to showcase up-and-coming players who will be making a splash in IM/Main in just a season or two. People know the 'stars' for lack of a better term. I think there'd be at least some interest in getting to know those who could be challenging those stars down the line.
I'd be up for doing some occasional camera work, but I get the feeling that I'd be garbage at it.
I'd be up for doing some occasional camera work, but I get the feeling that I'd be garbage at it.
LKincheloeFarm System - Besides Blackout TV I don't know of any casting org that is actively recruiting anybody new casters into the fold, much less providing training. New casters are basically stuck either casting STVs to Youtube or going swimming in the deep end of the TFtv stream list.
Putting some sort of system into place where new casters /streamers can be trained in the proper procedures Enigma is looking for will at a minimum ensure a standard of quality across in-house casts, and if they end up casting for someone else hopefully they'll spread that training around. Raising the bar in general. EDIT: If it helps get things into motion I would be willing to help out with this idea.
Well, I can't speak on behalf of TFTV, but I know I've been actively looking for talent, all the time. I jump into random streams (especially during casts), I try to keep tabs on everyone. Being "stuck" to casting STVs or YouTube is fine, because I'll even look at those. That's how Sezco got his debut cast. Marxist would've gotten his, as well, but HAPPENINGS IN MAIN prevented him so far (but you'll bet I'm trying to get him in).
Of course, final judgment rests with enigma, as always. And it's up to him and the NA coverage crew (cbear is one of them, won't name the others) to decide how this is all going to pan out.
[quote=LKincheloe]Farm System - Besides Blackout TV I don't know of any casting org that is actively recruiting anybody new casters into the fold, much less providing training. New casters are basically stuck either casting STVs to Youtube or going swimming in the deep end of the TFtv stream list.
Putting some sort of system into place where new casters /streamers can be trained in the proper procedures Enigma is looking for will at a minimum ensure a standard of quality across in-house casts, and if they end up casting for someone else hopefully they'll spread that training around. Raising the bar in general. EDIT: If it helps get things into motion I would be willing to help out with this idea.[/quote]
Well, I can't speak on behalf of TFTV, but I know I've been actively looking for talent, all the time. I jump into random streams (especially during casts), I try to keep tabs on everyone. Being "stuck" to casting STVs or YouTube is fine, because I'll even look at those. That's how Sezco got his debut cast. Marxist would've gotten his, as well, but HAPPENINGS IN MAIN prevented him so far (but you'll bet I'm trying to get him in).
Of course, final judgment rests with enigma, as always. And it's up to him and the NA coverage crew (cbear is one of them, won't name the others) to decide how this is all going to pan out.