Since its appearance back in 2020, YouTube Shorts has become a powerful tool for content creators. With the right strategy they could enhance one’s YouTube channel’s performance by a lot. So how can you create impactful videos for YouTube Short gaming channel? Here’s a full guide!
Why Make Gaming Shorts?
Gaming Shorts are the perfect way to show off little snippets of your work: thrilling moments, funny fails, or quick how-tos that get right to the action. They let you take advantage of YouTube’s vertical short-form video format (60 seconds max) to increase visibility. Since the launch of YouTube Shorts, creators have found new ways to reach broader audiences quickly. Gaming Shorts can help you achieve higher engagement and quickly establish your brand in the gaming community.
Steps to Make Gaming Shorts on YouTube
Creating Shorts doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s how to get started with Shorts on your gaming channel:
1. Choose the Right Content:
- Action-packed moments: Highlight epic game scenes or funny moments.
- How-to tips: Share quick tips for new levels, secret items, or moves.
- Challenges or trends: Participate in popular gaming trends or challenges to attract attention.
2. Record and Edit:
- Use screen-recording software to capture gameplay clips.
- Edit your video in a 9:16 aspect ratio to make it mobile-friendly.
- Ensure it’s under 60 seconds to qualify as a Short. (However, keep in mind that things can change. On the 15th of October, 2024, YouTube started testing the release of 3 minute videos. They aren’t widely available just yet, but let’s see where it goes)
3. Upload as a Short:
- To upload a video as a YouTube Short, you must keep it under 60 seconds and format it vertically (9:16).
- Include “#Shorts” in the title or description to increase chances of YouTube recognizing it as a Short.
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Top Tips for Gaming Shorts
Getting your gaming Shorts to stand out means adding the right hooks, editing style, and maximizing each second. Here are some tips:
1. Start with a Hook:
- The first three seconds are crucial. Capture viewers’ attention immediately with an exciting game moment or cliffhanger to make them want to see what happens next.
2. Add Subtitles or Captions:
- Many people watch Shorts without sound, so captions can keep viewers engaged and provide context for your gaming clip.
3. Use Catchy Music or Sound Effects:
- Choose music that fits the vibe of the gameplay. And if you struggle to pick the exact one, AIR Media-Tech partners have access to a full library of 32,000 copyright-free music on Epidemic Sound for free. Reach out to learn more.
Best Time to Post Your Gaming Shorts
When you post can have a significant impact on the views your YouTube Shorts receive. Here are some best practices to consider:
- Post when your audience is most active: Check YouTube Analytics to see when your viewers are online.
- Experiment with times: Try posting in the morning, afternoon, and late evening to test engagement.
- Capitalize on weekends: Many gamers have more free time to watch content on weekends, so try uploading your most exciting Shorts then.
Optimizing Your Gaming Shorts for Maximum Reach
Make sure your Shorts are easy to find. Here’s how:
1. Use Relevant Hashtags:
- Include keywords like “#GamingShorts,” “#GamePlay,” and hashtags related to specific games like “#Fortnite” or “#Minecraft.” This helps YouTube categorize your content and reach the right audience.
2. Engaging Thumbnails (if possible):
- While YouTube Shorts don't always show thumbnails, adding a strong start frame that can act as a thumbnail can capture attention quickly. You can choose a fitting stopframe, which is a feature that was added to YouTube relatively recently (autumn of 2024).
3. Monitor and Improve:
- Use YouTube Analytics to track how your Shorts are performing. Note what types of gaming content resonate most with your audience and fine-tune your approach over time.
Making gaming Shorts on YouTube is an excellent way to grow your channel and reach new viewers. With the right approach and smart timing, your gaming Shorts can quickly become a hit! Want to take your gaming channel to the next level? AIR Media-Tech helps creators optimize and promote their gaming channels, reaching global audiences more effectively. Unlock your gaming channel’s potential—partner with AIR Media-Tech today!
