The commentary workshop, part of the SHINE x *SCAPE Talent Development Programme, was held last Sunday, 25 June 2018. The workshop was located at *SCAPE, Hubquarters Workshop 1.Leading the workshop was Jenny “Reirachu” Lee and Lysander, esports casters who provided valuable insights into the various aspects of being an esports commentator.
The workshop began with an explanation behind the definition of a commentator. Commentating was broken down into two types. There was the ‘Play by Play’ commentating as well as ‘colour casting’. Where colour casting focused more on delivering expert analysis and technical knowledge, the play by play focused more on being the hype man and the storyteller of what is unfolding within the game.
Image credits: Redbull
The duo also addressed the issue of casting style and image. Relying on things such as puns or hairstyle would help to build a certain type of image of the caster who you are. The workshop was extremely helpful for aspiring casters, packed with tons of information to be a good caster such as having a good command of language, having a passion for gaming, possessing quick thinking and emphasized on the importance of managing public relations.
The workshop then moved on with Jenny and Lysander providing helpful pointers on how to cast a game as well as varying methods to train as a caster. They shared advice such as finding asking for feedback from other casters in order to understand the mistakes you had made and changing to be a better caster.
An important point that was brought up was dealing with negative criticism. After all, being an esports caster means having to be open to the barbs of the online community who often times can be fickle with their favour.
The session ended off with the casters sharing their own experiences as broadcast talent along with answering questions from the participants. Food was also provided for the participants to enjoy as refreshment after sitting through the workshop. Swee la.
Would I recommend this workshop? Yes, definitely. The workshop is not just applicable for aspiring casters but for players as well. As Lysander pointed out during the workshop, professional players do sometimes transition into being a caster later in their career. Picking up knowledge regarding casting would certainly help out in that case. Don’t scared if you missed out ah, there’s still other workshops happening that you can learn from. Check out the website here.
Featured Image Credits: Peatix
