The video discusses the rise of PewDiePie, a Swedish YouTuber who became the most subscribed channel on YouTube. The host, MatPat, analyzes the factors that contributed to PewDiePie's success, including the changes in YouTube's algorithm that prioritize watch time over views.
MatPat explains that PewDiePie's Let's Play videos, which are longer and more engaging, were perfectly suited for the new algorithm. He also notes that PewDiePie's international appeal, having started his channel in Sweden and later moving to Italy, allowed him to reach a broader audience.
The host also highlights the importance of YouTube's retention-based algorithm, which promotes channels that encourage viewers to watch longer and more frequently. He argues that PewDiePie's success is not solely due to his content, but also due to his ability to play by the rules of the algorithm and use it to his advantage.
The video concludes with MatPat encouraging viewers to subscribe to his channel and watch more videos, and announcing a new episode on Street Fighter.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. PewDiePie is a 23-year-old gamer who was about to overtake Smosh as the number 1 most subscribed channel on YouTube.
2. PewDiePie gained 1.5 million subscribers in 30 days.
3. PewDiePie had 212 million views.
4. Smosh, the current number 1 Channel, gets less than half of PewDiePie's views.
5. Gaming channels take up 16 of the top hundred subscribed Channels on YouTube.
6. If you eliminate Vevo channels and large companies, gaming channels dominate the top 100 list.
7. YouTube changed its algorithm in March of the previous year to prioritize retention time over views.
8. YouTube promotes channels that encourage viewers to watch for longer and longer sessions.
9. Let's Play videos are able to be produced much faster than other types of content.
10. The average gaming video is 9 minutes and 36 seconds long, while the average comedy video is 3 minutes and 25 seconds long.
11. Top gaming channels upload 8 or more videos per week.
12. Viewers of Let's Play channels often binge-watch videos.
13. YouTube promotes channels locally, and PewDiePie's channel is considered Swedish, giving him an advantage in the Swedish market.
14. PewDiePie's channel is also promoted in Italy, where he currently lives and uploads from.
15. PewDiePie's international reach gives him an advantage over other channels.
16. PewDiePie's fan base helps promote his content.
17. PewDiePie has raised awareness and money for charity, including a recent video for a clean water initiative.