Here’s Some Tough But Honest Advice For Fighting Game Commentators

Tong Lee wears a lot of hats in the Fighting Game Community. Not only does he have a prominent role in both Community Effort Orlando and DreamHack, he’s the founder of Tampa Never Sleeps, a long-running tournament series in central Florida. So when he talks about what it takes to advance in the scene, he knows what he’s saying.

Recently, he took to Twitter to give some tough love to up-and-coming commentators in the FGC. Leveling up as a commentator can be difficult. Unlike in competition, there are no clear and objective standards that people can use to measure themselves against. What’s more, most people can’t simply sign up to commentate at major events in order to get experience. But as Lee explains, there are still ways to advance.

It starts by respecting the work that others have already done and understanding that everyone in the game works hard to succeed. He also advises commentators to start small by working at locals and regionals first. His biggest tip of all is to assemble a highlight reel. “Anyone is welcome to send me their reel if they want honest opinions,” he says. “We can hop on Discord and I’ll gladly help you.”

So if you’ve been thinking about making a name for yourself with your fighting game commentary, now’s the time to get started! Send an email to your local Tournament Organizer or contact one of the many online events that have sprung up in the wake of COVID-19. Then get started on putting together your own personal best-of video. And don’t be afraid to ask for help, even if the only person you can think to ask is Lee himself.

To read the full thread and see all of the tech for commentators, click through below. Then show Lee some love by following him on Twitter and Twitch.

Most of the top commentators you see today have busted their a** for years to build up their brand. Many of them started years ago by traveling to events on their own dime, and have worked countless hours to hone their skills for little to no money to be where they are today.

— Tong (@TongNeverSleeps) April 1, 2020