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The Game Theorist: MatPat Tops Them All

When diving into the entertaining, informative videos MatPat provides, I mainly have good things to say. The style MatPat uses is incredibly enticing because he not only analyzes the games themselves, he develops theories that could be considered super out-of-the-box. MatPat's enthusiasm and diligent work with content makes his videos more engaging. Additionally, he has a voice for radio, tv, or youtube, which is proven through his immense popularity on youtube. I have been a follower of MatPat for a few years, and I plan to continue enjoying his content.

One major thing that makes MatPat stand out is his ability to implement humor. In every video he has published, there are jokes both related and unrelated to the video game he is analyzing. For example, in a video about the most recent Assassin's Creed game, MatPat says "hashtag ancient world problems" and a few other hash tags. The humor helps keep the viewer engaged rather than just reading words on a page. A second aspect of his content that make him stand out, is that he makes videos. When looking at the list of analysists to review, choosing whether to look at authors or MatPat, the choice was easy; I believe that using videos for this line of literature is more effective today because society is moving toward all things technology. A majority of those who play video games are likely among the younger generations, who then are more likely to resort to technology for learning and entertainment, rather than reading an article.

When considering the canon of analysis on video games, I am not sure if MatPat is adding to the analysis with his content. I believe his content is unique and incredibly good, but I do not believe what he seeks to achieve fits the bill for progressing the canon of analysis. MatPat does not simply review video games and break them down like many other analysists, he takes a different approach and inputs his own personal theories about certain aspects of games that may or may not be true about them. This style of analysis does not represent an "encyclopedic collection of references," or "a SparkNotes for video game analysis." (Sudiko) MatPat's content is valuable and in some cases his content would fall into the canon, but a majority of his videos I have watched are a more alternative approach.

MatPat has been incredibly successful with his analysis, and his humor, originality, and his ability to be himself are aspects I want to emulate in my own content. The main characteristic that I admire is his ability to be himself in his commentary. When you are able to be who you are, your message comes across as more authentic. Sometimes I feel stuck because I want to sound intelligent and cohesive so I move away from just being myself in my reviews. Another aspect I hope to add into my writing is more humor, which goes along with being myself. I feel I could make my reviewing more inviting with jokes or pop culture references that may induce laughter.

MatPat stands alone for his success as a video game analysist. His medium choice and his originality fuel an enticing, informative message that will continue to be a popular resource for videogame lovers. Up next I will be diving into the complex story of Life is Strange. Talk soon.

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