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[Gsnap]

I don't think he's doing anything wrong. Though his lore videos are a bit too flowery for me, and he does seem to present too much of his interpretations as fact.

Besides, we all know ENB is better anyway.

 

[ironcreed]

It just feels like he tries his best at doing that and fails, which ends up sounding like shitty fan-fiction.

It's obviously working for him, so he must be doing something right. But whatever works for you, I guess.

 

[F0rneus]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

I'm not sure. I love playing caster in Souls. Yeah I know. I don't think it's as overpowered as many others think. But I don't want to mess up my first build (Respec will be hard to get I hear), and who knows what the soft caps will be this time. So probably a Warrior veering towards a Quality build.

 

[MegaMelon]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

If there's an elite knight armour equivalent like the red caped one seen in promo footage available early on I'll be all over deprived. Weapon shouldn't matter since Halberd is available early on. I want those extra level up points to be put into the stats I want but deprived is hard mode. Hmm.

 

[Darryl M R]

I think his videos are great and you need to learn self control if you are worried about spoilers.

 

[Sheriff_Battlesnake]

I enjoy his content and his performance. It's exactly that. He is speaking in a sort of narrator character. I don't think he's "talking down to you" or "belittling poverty," I assume he is taking on the inflection of most of the NPCs and delivering his content with the same character. This isn't like a TED talk where Bill Gates is on stage with a cockney imitation.

 

[Screaming Meat]

I enjoy his content and his performance. It's exactly that. He is speaking in a sort of narrator character. I don't think he's "talking down to you" or "belittling poverty," I assume he is taking on the inflection of most of the NPCs and delivering his content with the same character. This isn't like a TED talk where Bill Gates is on stage with a cockney imitation.

I'd fucking watch the shit out of that.

 

[sublimit]

I'm going almost completely blind for this game.I follow Vaati on Youtube but i haven't clicked on any of his DS3 videos or at any other Souls youtuber that has uploaded DS3 content.

I do appreciate watching Vaati's content but only after i have finished a Souls game at least twice on my own.

 

[JumpCancel]

For me, the OMGWTFBBQ-guys often sound far more forced.

Opinions.

I hate those too. That wasn't the tone I was suggesting.

A more lively tone that is passionate, without being overplayed.

 

[DedValve]

I enjoy watching his videos. I care more about playing souls games than unearthing the story. Bloodborne was the only one to really get me interested in what was going on. I like watching his interpretation of it because its entertaining, helps me understand the world better (regardless of how accurate it may or may not be) and adds a little more "oomph" in me killing some damn hollowed.

That said I do occasionally enjoy discovering the story myself as I have been with the DS2 dlc but I'm really heavily invested in the gameplay more so than anything else.

I don't see anything wrong with his videos. As long as he gives credit where credit is due (which in the videos I've seen he has) he offers excellent storytelling. Of course if your more invested in the story of the souls game then yeah you probably wouldn't or even shouldn't be watching his videos as the fun in the story is finding the pieces yourself and discussing with others your various interpretations of it.

Pretty sure he also clearly marks spoilers where spoilers are due and he seems to target people who want to learn more about the story but don't necessarily want to be involved in the speculation and discovery parts of it. Which is great since Souls gives you the freedom to ignore the story if you want so without people like Vaati, we'd have a lot more people (myself included) ignorant on the story of souls as a whole.

Keep up the fine work Vaati and others providing SoulsBorne explanations/theories.


EDIT: Despite not caring too deeply for the stories I haven't watched a single one of his DS3 videos. I'll wait until after I beat the game.

 

[Yakhont]

you, like the op, are projecting how you want to experience the games. The games are a framework around which folktales can be created. vague references here and there that can be put together to form an overall narrative. Vaati gives his interpretation and its sorta a taste of what you can expect to look for. Some people (like me) really like his story telling and find it adds more to the world

If people want to have no exposure to other peoples interpretations then they shouldn't be watching him and I doubt most do.

But before the game even releases and his audience gets to play and experience the story for themselves? My view is that lore videos are supplementary material you go through after playing the game not before. Thats what I dont get.

However that is perfectly fine and there really is no wrong way to consume the game and thats just a matter of tastes and preferences.

 

[Sheriff_Battlesnake]

I'd fucking watch the shit out of that.

Always packin' the insight eh Screaming Meat?

hahaha

 

[jokebreath]

I just want to chime in in support for Vaati and say that his videos enhance my appreciation for the Souls series. I'm glad he makes a good amount of money from his content, he's earned it.

I never watch one of his videos until I've completed the game, but I'm always amazed at how many things I've missed once I finish the video. It's exciting to me, feels like I'm uncovering a new world!

On my second play through, I look for different things and have different experiences based on the additional context provided by his videos.

The idea that someone would be angry that he's spoiling the experience seems ludicrous. Also, you're allowed to disagree with any of his talking points that don't feel right to you. There's always room for interpretation in the Souls universe.

 

[Gbraga]

It's also evident he doesn't interact much with the Souls community in general, not unless it's going to make him money.

That's really not true. He always drops by in the subreddits for each game and talk to everyone else, and it's also very common to have him posting in chats of streamers, mostly speedrunners.

It's actually very common to see people discussing a particular point about a video, and the video creator comes in and gives their perspective. So it's not even "Vaati cares so much about us!", it's normal. They're part of the community.

 

[Melchiah]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

Coming from Bloodborne, and being new to Souls, what would be a good starting class and weapon type? I know Royal was the "noobie" class in Demon's Souls. I chose the Threaded Cane in Bloodborne based on some starting guide, and it worked really well for me, so I wonder if there's something similar in the series? In BB, I preferred the faster skill-based weapons over the slower strength-based ones.

I hate those too. That wasn't the tone I was suggesting.

A more lively tone that is passionate, without being overplayed.

I like Vaati's tone, but I dunno if it's changed since the Bloodborne videos, as I haven't watched any DS3 material from him. The first one I watched from him was either 15 Interesting Insights or Eileen, and they were perfectly fine for me.

 

[Orochinagis]

I think Vaati entered the mindset about "you have to do it first or anyone would take your place" now, more because he have a patreon now which still at this day is shocking for me how you can do that by just speculating things compared to ENB who helped do the BB guide but didnt spoil anything on his channel to give the guide the space time it deserves.

Indeed. One looking for the thrill of discovery in Dark Souls III probably shouldn't watch a video called "Dark Souls III Walkthrough". It's just that simple.

The problem is the video titles, I had to unsub because video 2 and 3 were too spoilerish for me

 

[Toxi]

Coming from Bloodborne, and being new to Souls, what would be a good starting class and weapon type? I know Royal was the "noobie" class in Demon's Souls. I chose the Threaded Cane in Bloodborne based on some starting guide, and it worked really well for me, so I wonder if there's something similar in the series? In BB, I preferred the faster skill-based weapons over the slower strength-based ones.

There is always a class that starts with high dexterity, so you could choose that.

Alternatively, there's always at least one class that starts with balanced dexterity and strength that will give you more freedom with trying out new weapons.

 

[Misha]

But before the game even releases and his audience gets to play and experience the story for themselves? My view is that lore videos are supplementary material you go through after playing the game not before. Thats what I dont get.

However that is perfectly fine and there really is no wrong way to consume the game and thats just a matter of tastes and preferences.

I usually read the entire summary of movies before watching them. doesn't prevent me from enjoying the movie. a lot of the time it helps me to know what to look for and gives me room ot pay more attention

yeah. my issue was mostly just with you saying it would hurt them. people who this format helps will watch it and people who are ruined by this format won't. might not be as beneficial as other formats but it'll definitely get a decent bit of people excited

 

[Melchiah]

There is always a dexterity-based class, so you could choose that.

Alternatively, there's always a balanced strength and dexterity class that will give you more freedom with choosing a weapon.

Ok, I imagine the stats are pretty different in Souls, when you have encumberance and whatnot. I'll definitely be missing the ability to transform the weapon's reach. Hopefully there'll be some good starting guides available shortly before release.

On a side note, goddam your avatar.

 

[Insaniac]

I think "Oh my god who cares" really sums it up. The guy makes high quality videos, I find them entertaining, and I can't be bothered to read every item description and decipher the story.

To make a thread specifically to criticize the guys video is a waste of time. Anyone who is searching for walkthroughs or story about dark souls already isn't going to invest effort into figuring it out themselves.

Also, anyone who has spent time making videos, knows just how much effort goes into making a quality video, regardless of the content.

 

[Ivory Samoan]

I think his videos are brilliant, and if anything, enhance my playthroughs (especially if I hit a brick wall). Sometimes I just don't have time to experiment a million trial and errors in the odd occasion I get stuck in a souls game, Vaati helps a bunch in those situations.

Note: I try to never use any walkthroughs for any game if I can help it, but there are only so many hours in the day I find.

 

[GamingOblivion]

Preach it OP. The guy plagerizes and I will never forgive him for that. That man will never get another view from me.

Everyone calls his videos brilliant when he doesn't add anything new to the table and other, smaller content creators usually do it better. But, because he's popular...

 

[Gorilla Blade]

Too say someone isnt part of a community because you dont like his content is ridiculous.
On the other hand, I see his video from time to time and hell yes he can be annoying. From the tone, from the attitude to constantly hammering into your face he believes the Souls games are the best thing since sliced bread. It's all very jarring.

 

[Jobbs]

Coming from Bloodborne, and being new to Souls, what would be a good starting class and weapon type? I know Royal was the "noobie" class in Demon's Souls. I chose the Threaded Cane in Bloodborne based on some starting guide, and it worked really well for me, so I wonder if there's something similar in the series? In BB, I preferred the faster skill-based weapons over the slower strength-based ones.

Souls games have far more variety in weapons compared to Bloodborne. I'm guessing that generally speaking if you want an aggressive faster swinging playstyle you're going to want to go for a dex or str+dex "quality" build.

So.. Maybe Mercenary? Starts with scimitars. Ultimately the starting equipment doesn't matter in the long run but it will color your initial experience for sure.

 

[Screaming Meat]

Always packin' the insight eh Screaming Meat?

hahaha

You know it

 

[VR_RaidenXOF]

Vaati's DS3 videos were very well done. There's no reason for name calling. The Souls community is getting just as rancid as the MGS community about youtubers! I mean, Vaati is basically the PythonSelkan of souls. And I love him for it.

 

[Orochinagis]

I think you are missing the point about Vaati releasing info too soon and somehow affecting the publisher, not even IGN spoiled that "mechanic" yet

 

[Melchiah]

Souls games have far more variety in weapons compared to Bloodborne. I'm guessing that generally speaking if you want an aggressive faster swinging playstyle you're going to want to go for a dex or str+dex "quality" build.

So.. Maybe Mercenary? Starts with scimitars. Ultimately the starting equipment doesn't matter in the long run but it will color your initial experience for sure.

Good to know. I'll keep that in mind, and hopefully manage to choose a type that won't affect the initial experience negatively.

 

[Yakhont]

I usually read the entire summary of movies before watching them. doesn't prevent me from enjoying the movie. a lot of the time it helps me to know what to look for and gives me room ot pay more attention

yeah. my issue was mostly just with you saying it would hurt them. people who this format helps will watch it and people who are ruined by this format won't. might not be as beneficial as other formats but it'll definitely get a decent bit of people excited

That doesnt sound like what Vaati is doing though; an indepth look at the story and questlines. I guess having some information would be useful like weapons, spells or items that can be missed in specific scenarios until NG+.

As for hurting I guess that depends on what uyour definition of "hurt" means. This makes me more wary of Dark Souls marketing features and if i find it distasteful enough I would delay my purchase. With the season pass already pretty expensive, I might decide not to buy at launch after all.

 

[Darryl M R]

I think you are missing the point about Vaati releasing info too soon and somehow affecting the publisher, not even IGN spoiled that "mechanic" yet

Did IGN even find that mechanic though. I'm assuming everyone would of made a video about it if they knew about it. You can't blame the guy for being detailed.

 

[Gbraga]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

The one with the coolest looking gear. I'm all about the Fashion Souls.

 

[Jobbs]

The one with the coolest looking gear. I'm all about the Fashion Souls.

In that case, probably Herald. That cape is amazing.

 

[Red Liquorice]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

Which ever one is SL1 whoop, whoop!

 

[Shai-Tan]

Demon's Souls was out for a long enough time in asia that full guides were formed before most got a chance to play it. I don't see the problem whatsoever. If you don't want a spoiler then don't go look at a youtube video or a guide.

 

[Gbraga]

In that case, probably Herald. That cape is amazing.

I'll look into it! Thanks for the tip.

Come on, march, you're taking too long.

 

[Jobbs]

I'll look into it! Thanks for the tip.

Come on, march, you're taking too long.

360 view of each starting class

 

[Gbraga]

360 view of each starting class

Well, shit, that's useful! Thanks a lot! Mercenary looks really cool, I think I'm going with that.

 

[ironcreed]

360 view of each starting class

Warrior for me. I'll add some dex and a bow later and do my usual strength/dex build.

 

[Bedlam]

Completely agree with every single point. Great post, OP. In fact, I contemplated writing something similar at some point.

I cannot fathom why any Souls fan would willingly spoil himself the games by watching those videos. Moreover, the Souls games are so much about individually interpreting the pieces of lore and NOT getting the content spoon-fed - which is directly what that guy does. And his viewers often seem to forget that he doesn't present facts, just his interpretations. It becomes problematic when his isolated and singular views start to shape the broad perception of the games and their lore.

Generally, I try to stay as far away from him and his community as possible. Everyone is free to enjoy the games however they want but in my opinion watching his videos is the worst approach one could to take to consume these games.

 

[Carl7]

Just to derail from hateful posts for a minute, looking briefly at vatti's ds3 video the question was begged -- What's your guys' first starter class gonna be?

I pick cleric every time since Demon's, so that's probably it, although Herald looks really cool... I feel like I may not end up wanting that extra dext on a faith build.

Pyromancer Dex/int.

 

[Weltall Zero]

This entire thread seems like a serious case of SLWIDL:

I defy anyone to explain why people that want to watch their videos instead of searching for Souls lore for themselves are factually wrong. I find that orders of magnitude more pretentious than anything they are accusing him of.

 

[ironcreed]

This entire thread seems like a serious case of SLWIDL:

I defy anyone to explain why people that want to watch their videos instead of searching for Souls lore for themselves are factually wrong. I find that orders of magnitude more pretentious than anything they are accusing him of.

 

[Orochinagis]

360 view of each starting class

I like how the female model finally got the armor ajusted to her size, sorta

 

[TheCthultist]

I'll put it out right up front, I'm one of Vaati's supporters on Patreon so my opinion is probably a little bias. That said, I never would have supported him to begin with if it weren't for the fact that I love the content he puts out and the style it's presented in.

I haven't watched the videos yet as I want to go into what might be the final Dark Souls game as blind as I was on my first. However, I can definitely understand the appeal of having the footage out there, being able to get some idea of what the premie of the game is going to be, and ultimately see some of this stuff a solid month before its out.

I've heard any number of reasons why people watch videos like this. OP mentioned the hand-holdy style of the videos. I frankly don't see it. The videos are usually well scripted and presented at a pace that lets people keep up with it even if they aren't souls lore buffs, but I can't think of any where he's talking down to the audience. He's essentially presenting it as someone might present a lesson in a classroom, where a lot of the information is presented to whoever wants it in a way that keeps it engaging. This also kind of relates to the overly-theatrical/deep tone a lot of the videos can dip into.

I guess it just comes down to personal taste, but a lot of the things detailed here as negatives or briefly mentioned as problems are things that ultimately drew me to videos like Vaati's, Spy's, and SunlightBlade's. Vaati focuses primarily on lore, Spy on the underlying components of the game and story, and SB on the community aspect. They all have different styles or focuses, but they still hit the same key into in similar ways. Watching any of them would spoil portions of the games for people. ENB has thankfully avoided it with III which I really appreciate, but to expect everyone to do the same is kind of rediculous.

Either way, I don't see the harm in this stuff being out there. If you don't want to get spoiled, don't watch it.

 

[CenturionKei]

Im a Vaati supporter as well. I could listen to the dudes voice for hours....

It's in my opinion, the plagiarist claims are bullshit, done by the fact the people are jealous of all of his views!

 

[double jump]

I like Vaatividya at times and other times I find him overbearing. One thing for sure though I can't be mad at him for being first and trying to make profit. The fault lies with Namco for not having proper nda's for thier event. In this instance the complaints are misplaced imo.

 

[SargerusBR]

Meh, i like him but only because ENB stopped doing lore videos.

 

[abstract alien]

Honestly, I think this needs to be viewed from the audience his videos would be most beneficial to. We have to realize that most people who play these games DO NOT really get the story, otherwise there wouldn't be any need for such videos in the first place. It's a very complex series, and even when paying attention, there are a million things that could go unnoticed. This style of explanation is extremely helpful to those who can't keep up with those minute details that end up growing into major narrative plot points under everything. Yes, it's great to discover things on your own and all(as is usually the artists intent, which is why I go on media blackouts until after I finish a game), but they are tons of things many people would have never known about had they not seen a clip or heard it from someone else.

As far as the spoilers go, you were watching a playthrough. Not sure what you expected since that's what a playthrough is. Go on a blackout if you don't want to see anything, and especially don't go searching info out and get upset when you find it. Well, you can get upset, but it didn't make much sense.

 

[lifa-cobex]

I should have mentioned that I'm not spoiling myself by watching these videos.
Having prior warning for spoilers and such is a given; that's not the point.
The point is how his content is presented, and how the audience is affected.
However, thanks to some replies, I'm already starting to understand the mindset behind a lot of it.

I don't understand what your getting at?

You don't like the way it's presented as its giving a wrong impression to the audience about what the game means to you or something?...
I personally really like his lore videos. I think they are very well edited and presented. I started watching them after I cleared DS1. I misinterpreted plenty of the finer details of the story and he defiantly helped me fill in the blanks.

If anything, he has helped grow my fondness for DS.

 

[TheCthultist]

Also relating back to him presenting theories as fact, this went up on Twitlonger earlier.
http://www.twitlonger.com/show/n_1sodr1s