Ten FTW

"Ten FTW," short for "Ten For The Win," is an online video series that was produced by the now-defunct entertainment network, Machinima. As an offshoot of Machinima's vast array of gaming-focused content, "Ten FTW" carved out its niche by delivering humorous and insightful top-ten lists covering a vast array of topics within the video game universe.

The program typically featured a duo of hosts - most notably, Steve Larson and Larsen Beattie - whose on-screen chemistry and comedic timing added a layer of personality and entertainment value to each episode. The pair would banter and joke their way through the list, making light of their subject matter while simultaneously informing their audience about various aspects of gaming.

Each roughly ten-minute-long installment of "Ten FTW" revolved around an overarching theme or a specific question related to the gaming industry, culture, or particular game mechanics and features. The show delved into lists such as the top ten Easter eggs in video games, the most challenging bosses, memorable game villains, awe-inspiring game worlds, or even broader cultural phenomena like gaming myths and legends. These lists were derived from a combination of personal opinions, community feedback, and widely accepted views within the gaming community.

"Ten FTW" employed a vibrant and entertaining presentation style, utilizing gameplay footage, custom graphics, and dynamic editing effects to keep the viewer engaged. Moreover, pop culture references and skits were often interspersed throughout, making each episode more than just a simple rundown of a top-ten list but an entertaining piece of content that would resonate with its audience.

The appeal of "Ten FTW" was multifaceted. For one, it served as a source of information and recommendations for gamers, particularly useful for those looking to discover new games or reminisce about classics. Its comedic approach also ensured that viewers would be entertained even if they were already familiar with the games being discussed. Finally, its accessible format made the show an excellent entry point for non-gamers or casual viewers who could enjoy the program without needing an in-depth understanding of the gaming world.

Community engagement was a hallmark of "Ten FTW." Viewers were encouraged to participate by suggesting future top-ten topics or by contributing their own thoughts and opinions on the lists presented. This interaction fostered a sense of belonging among the audience, making many viewers feel like they were part of the show's creation process.

The show operated during a particular era of online gaming content, where platforms like YouTube were turning into significant vectors for gaming news, reviews, and entertainment. Machinima, as a leader in gaming-focused digital content, harnessed shows like "Ten FTW" to tap into the burgeoning video game culture and its rapidly growing online community.

Despite the intrigue and engagement it generated, "Ten FTW" isn't without its critics. Some viewers occasionally expressed that the lists were subjective and reflected the hosts' personal preferences more than a broader consensus. However, this critique often fed into the engagement factor of the show as it would spark discussions and debates in the comments section under each episode, furthering the sense of community and involvement by the audience.

Producing regular content over several years, "Ten FTW" amassed a considerable number of episodes, covering a broad scope of gaming niches and interests. Although Machinima has since ceased operations and much of its content library has been taken offline, the legacy of "Ten FTW" lives on in the memory of its fans and the influence it had on similar content that would follow in its footsteps. The show highlights an era when gaming began to cement its place as a central pillar of pop culture, and online video content became a key medium through which fans could share in their passion for games.

It's important to note that, given the closure of Machinima and the removal of their videos, access to the "Ten FTW" episodes might be restricted or non-existent. While the show played a role in the gaming community during its active years, like many digital media ventures, it faced the impermanence of online content with platform and network shifts that have left it as a fond memory for those who followed it during its heyday.