BlueberryMUNCH said:
Do a game you love as a starter.
There's no point in unenthusiastically trudging through a game you don't enjoy, right?
So as a starter, just do your favorite game, kay? :].
As far as choosing games go,
do this completely.
I've probably watched/read four different Silent Hill Let's Plays, and each person had something unique to offer. Unless its something done over twenty five times, like Pokemon or Ocarina of Time, then there's no harm in making a new LP.
Just tell us some of your favorites of your library!
But yeah, invest in a decent USB microphone, make sure you can have a decent recording. Start with 6-10 videos until you're comfortable with your recording setup, not just for ease, but to lessen the possibility of audio desync. You want to know your process so that you can find any flaws.
Also, make test videos so that you can test your audio. Honestly, I'd suggest recording the game audio and your voice on separate channels so that you can adjust each to make both you and the game audible.
In creating commentary, figure out if you're pure reactionary, storytelling/role playing, or documentarian.
Most polished LPs are a mix of reactionary and documentarian. An introduction for such an LP typically entails being able to spend a few minutes for video 1 explaining its history, why you chose the game, and how you're going to go about this video series.
Then, you should explain
every single game mechanic. Even running through what stats do specific to that game would work. Take LateBlt [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M-jz0Mqgmg] as an example. He's a bit long-winded to most LPers, but he is able to squeeze almost seven minutes out of just creating a character. Unless you're going a high-action, frantic let's play, you should attempt to have a constant dialogue going that pertains specifically to the game you're playing. New mechanics, new characters...
Anything. Be sure to hit the mechanics, then go for a constant stream of input on the game.
Now, if you're playing a game where there's a long period of time in which nothing in the game changes, like perhaps a stint of dungeon crawling, here's where you can place irrelevant but amusing dialogue. I strongly suggest having some familiar topics to talk about during these times. If a game consists mostly of repetition without change, its probably not good first LP material.
Also, don't be offensive or vulgar. It works for a few people, but chances are, you aren't them. Try to cut down on the swearing if you can. (On camera, many people subconsciously swear a lot more than they do normally, so being aware of it would keep you in check) Limit the sex jokes, use sexist jokes only with incredibly blatant irony, and just don't even try saying something racist. (Unless its at a fantasy race, even then be clearly joking)
So yeah, find a game that you know really well and enjoy enough to play through again with full enthusiasm. Research it, reflect on why you like it, and go for it.
I'm sure the Escapist would be happy to critique a first video.
