Creating and Utilizing Stock Gameplay Videos in YouTube Gaming

YouTube is a vast and dynamic platform that caters to a wide array of content creators, including gamer YouTubers. One of the strategies employed by many gamer YouTubers is the recording and storage of gameplay videos as stock content for future use. This article explores the benefits and practicality of this approach, highlighting how it can be an efficient method for content creators with tight upload schedules.

Recording Gameplay for Future Use

Yes, it is common for gamer YouTubers to record gameplay videos for future use. This method not only saves time but also ensures that content is consistently available for viewers. Recording gameplay to create a library of stock videos can serve as an invaluable resource, especially during periods when the creator may be too busy or simply lack the energy to record something fresh.

To get started, you need the right setup. Most YouTubers record their gameplay using software that allows for professional editing, such as OBS Studio or Fraps. These tools enable you to capture high-quality footage with minimum setup. Additionally, an external microphone is essential to record your clear voice. This way, you can produce engaging and polished gameplays that can be reused and edited for different videos.

Exploring Different Recording Strategies

Not all YouTubers take the same approach to recording gameplay. Some, like privacy-minded streamers, tend to play games on emulators and complete them within certain limits, such as 10 credits. For instance, I used to stream on a platform called 10 Credits or Less, where I would play arcade games on an emulator and complete them using only 10 credits. However, this became inconvenient, so I shifted to a more efficient pre-recorded format.

With the pre-recorded approach, I would spend the entire day playing different games with ten credits and record each session individually. These recordings were saved for future use, allowing me to create new content even when I didn't have the time or energy to play fresh. In cases where a specific game was requested, I would already have the pre-recorded video ready to use.

Adjusting to Changes in Content Needs

While pre-recording is a proven method, it's important to adapt to the changing needs of your audience. Not all Youtubers always use their stock videos, but it is quite common for channels with a tight upload schedule to turn to these videos when necessary. Pre-recorded videos can be a good fallback option, especially when you don't have the time or energy to create new content from scratch.

However, it's crucial not to rely solely on pre-recorded videos. While they can be a valuable resource, using them too frequently can make your content feel dated. A mix of fresh and recycled content can help maintain audience engagement. Audiences can often tell when a video was not recently made, so it's important to balance the use of stock videos with fresh, original content.

Conclusion

Recording gameplay for future use as stock videos is a common practice among YouTubers, especially those with tight upload schedules. It allows for efficient content creation and ensures that you can deliver fresh, engaging content to your audience consistently. While there are various methods to capture gameplay, the key is to have the right tools and a clear strategy to make the process smooth and effective.

Whether you prefer the challenge of completing games within limits or the convenience of pre-recording, the most important thing is to adapt to the changing needs of your audience and maintain a balance between fresh and recycled content.