YouTubers – are they good stories, told well?

The digital age has revolutionized how we consume stories. YouTube, celebrating its 20-year legacy and boasting billions of viewers, stands as a testament to this shift. But can online video storytelling truly compete with traditional narratives? Are they good stories, told well? This is a 20-year debate that continues to follow YouTubers.  They continue to be seen as “low production value” and not “professional” and so somehow inferior to established storytellers. Mr Beast’s cross-over to Amazon, and other YouTubers moving within Hollywood circles previously dominated by established creators and talent.  

In my career I have been fortunate enough to work with both established media companies and the creator economy, in Japan and worldwide.  I find the debate outdated. After all, it is about good stories well told. I wanted to set out to answer the question, are YouTubers good storytellers? Do many deserve the right to be called professional, despite their medium and production values?

During my daughter’s spring break, I noticed her spending hours watching videos by the YouTube creator “@patisyu,” which sparked my curiosity. In this blog post, I take a deep dive into the narrative structure of one of those videos, “Pachi’s Tower Rescue.” I’ll compare it to classic storytelling models, like the Hero’s Journey and the Three-Act Structure, to better understand how YouTube creators are becoming masters of digital storytelling.

Why YouTube Storytelling Matters in 2025

YouTube has become a dominant force in entertainment. With its vast reach and diverse content, it’s crucial to understand how creators are engaging audiences. “Pachi’s Tower Rescue,” a Minecraft-themed adventure, serves as a perfect example of how traditional storytelling techniques are being adapted for a digital platform. While the story telling medium, in this case Minecraft, is not traditional, the narratives are.

This analysis was supported by the extensive use of Gemini 2.0 Flash to create the foundational information and provide substantial support for analysis against well-established storytelling principles. While the current capabilities of GenAI analysis are not flawless or perfect, it does significantly aid in forming directional conclusions that are both insightful and relevant to the narrative being evaluated. This support enables a deeper understanding and a more nuanced exploration of the storytelling elements at play.

Data Extraction and Preparation:

• Transcript Generation: I cleaned and organized the transcript, identifying potential characters based on dialogue and context.
• Comment Analysis: I analyzed the provided YouTube comments to understand audience reactions, identify recurring themes, and gauge viewer engagement.
• Script Format:  The transcript was formatted into a script-like structure to facilitate a clearer understanding of dialogue, scene progression, and character interactions. This enabled a more detailed narrative analysis.

Narrative Analysis:

• Storytelling Principles:
  • I analyzed the video’s narrative against established storytelling models, primarily the Hero’s Journey and the Three-Act Structure.
  • This helped me understand how the video utilized classic narrative techniques and its effectiveness in doing so.
• Character Development and Emotional Impact:
  • I examined the character arcs, particularly Pachi’s, and assessed the emotional impact of the narrative.
  • I identified strengths and weaknesses in character development and explored how the video attempted to evoke emotional responses.
• Dialogue and Structure:
  • I analyzed the dialogue for its functionality and effectiveness in advancing the plot and revealing character.
  • I examined the video’s structure, pacing, and transitions to assess its overall narrative flow.

Follow the full methodology and analysis below, complete with prompts and responses.

Good Stories Tole Well: Hero’s Journey and Three-Act Structure on YouTube

“Pachi’s Tower Rescue,” despite its Minecraft aesthetic, is built upon the same foundational narrative principles that have driven storytelling for centuries. The film’s core narrative mirrors Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey: Pachi’s call to adventure, the refusal represented by the tower guard, the mentorship of the “Shishou,” and the climactic ordeal and reward. These archetypal stages are not unique to Hollywood blockbusters; they are fundamental to human storytelling, and YouTube creators are adept at utilizing them.

Similarly, the film’s structure adheres to the classic Three-Act Structure. Act One establishes the inciting incident (Ciel’s kidnapping) and the initial conflict. Act Two escalates the tension through a series of trials, as Pachi battles his way up the tower. Act Three delivers the resolution, with Pachi rescuing Ciel. This clear narrative arc, a hallmark of traditional storytelling, demonstrates that YouTube creators are not operating in a narrative vacuum. They are drawing from the same wellspring of storytelling techniques as their Hollywood counterparts.

The ability to distill these complex narrative structures into a short, engaging format is a testament to the skill of YouTube creators. They are not merely producing “content;” they are crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on a fundamental level.

Character Arcs and Emotional Engagement: Bridging the Digital Divide

While “Pachi’s Tower Rescue” may prioritize pacing and action, it still manages to deliver effective character arcs. Pachi’s journey from a concerned friend to a capable hero is a classic narrative trajectory, mirroring the character development found in traditional storytelling. The “Shishou,” though comedic, serves as a vital mentor figure, fulfilling a role familiar to audiences of countless films and novels.

The film’s emotional engagement is also notable. The urgency of Pachi’s quest, coupled with the escalating tension of the battles, creates a compelling viewing experience. The humor, while present, does not detract from the emotional stakes of the narrative. This balance of action, humor, and emotional engagement demonstrates that YouTube creators are capable of crafting narratives that resonate on multiple levels.

The use of Minecraft as a storytelling medium is particularly significant. It allows the creators to tap into a pre-existing emotional connection with their audience. For millions of viewers, Minecraft is more than just a game; it’s a world filled with personal meaning and emotional resonance. By grounding their narrative within this context, @patisyu creates a powerful sense of shared experience, something traditional storytelling can struggle to replicate.

The Unique Power of YouTube’s Interactivity:

YouTube’s interactivity sets it apart. The “Rock, Paper, Scissors” segment in “Pachi’s Tower Rescue” exemplifies the platform’s community-driven nature. This direct interaction fosters a sense of belonging and engagement, building loyal fan bases. This level of engagement is a narrative advantage unique to platforms like YouTube.

Conclusion: Redefining Narrative in the Digital Age

“Pachi’s Tower Rescue” is not just a short YouTube video; it’s a demonstration of how classic narrative principles can thrive in a digital environment. The film proves that YouTube creators are not just content providers; they are storytellers capable of crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on a fundamental level. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, YouTube is not merely a platform; it’s a powerful force reshaping the very nature of storytelling, and challenging the traditional structures of entertainment.

Full Method and Analysis

Thesis

I was fascinated by my daughter watching hours of the same YouTube channel, with stories set in an ever-evolving world in Minecraft. I wanted to understand if these videos, despite the medium and creative, followed the established techniques of “professional” creators. My thesis, by analyzsing the video and it’s dialogue I’d find that it did.

Method

I used YouTube, the YouTube generated transcript, and Gemini 2.0 Flash to do the deconstruction and the analysis.

Steps

PROMPT I have a transcript of a YouTube video. I want to analyze it in a script format to compare with established story-telling principles.

RESPONSE Great! Please provide the transcript. I’m ready to help you analyze it in a script format and compare it with established storytelling principles.

To make the analysis as effective as possible, please also tell me:

• What storytelling principles are you particularly interested in? (e.g., Freytag’s Pyramid, the Hero’s Journey, Three-Act Structure, pacing, character arcs, conflict, etc.)
• What kind of video is it? (e.g., narrative short film, vlog, educational video, review, etc.) Knowing the genre will help us assess the script’s effectiveness within its context.
• What aspects of the script do you want to focus on? (e.g., dialogue, structure, character development, emotional impact, etc.)

Once I have the transcript and your specific interests, I can help you:

• Break down the transcript into scenes/beats.
• Identify key story elements.
• Map the script against relevant storytelling models.
• Analyze pacing, character arcs, and conflict.
• Provide feedback on the script’s strengths and weaknesses.
• Suggest potential improvements.

I look forward to seeing your transcript!

PROMPT First, here is the transcript. Can you clean it and organize it, if possible identify different characters by their dialogue? Then we can follow the questions you.

RESPONSE Okay, please provide the transcript. I’m ready to clean it up, organize it, and attempt to identify characters by their dialogue to the best of my ability. I’ll do my best to make it clear and easy to analyze. Just paste the transcript here, and we’ll get started!

Okay, here’s a cleaned-up and organized transcript, with character identification to the best of my ability:

Characters:

• パチ (Pachi): Main character, trying to rescue Ciel.
• シエル (Ciel): Pachi’s friend, who is captured.
• 敵 (Enemy): various enemies.
• 師匠 (Shishou): Pachi’s martial arts trainer.

Transcript:

(0:00-0:27) Opening/Kidnapping Scene:

(0:11) Enemy: “To think

[Music]

(0:05) Enemy: “Fu, what research should I do today?” … [Continued]

PROMPT Please analyze and give comments as to the story’s fit into the Hero’s Journey or Three-Act Structure or other

RESPONSE Alright, let’s analyze this short narrative in terms of the Hero’s Journey and the Three-Act Structure.

Analysis:

1. The Hero’s Journey:

• The Ordinary World (0:00-0:30):
  • We start with a glimpse of Ciel’s ordinary world, which is quickly disrupted by the kidnapping. Pachi’s initial scene is also his ordinary world, going to visit a friend.
• The Call to Adventure (0:30-2:00):
  • Pachi discovers Ciel is missing and uses the tracking device, revealing she’s been kidnapped and taken to the top of a tower. This is the clear call to adventure.
• Refusal of the Call (2:00-3:00):
  • The guard at the tower acts as the refusal, blocking Pachi’s path and defeating him. Pachi is forced to retreat.
• Meeting the Mentor (3:00-7:00):
  • Pachi meets the “Shishou” (master), who becomes his mentor. This is a classic Hero’s Journey trope.
• Crossing the Threshold (7:00-10:00):
  • Pachi’s training is complete, and he begins his journey up the tower. This is the crossing of the threshold into the special world. The fights with the masters disciples, are the first tests.
• Tests, Allies, and Enemies (10:00-17:30):
  • Pachi faces a series of tests as he climbs the tower, battling increasingly difficult enemies. He uses the skills learned from his mentor and finds a weapon that helps him.
• The Ordeal (15:00-17:30):
  • The final battle with the main antagonist at the top of the tower is the ordeal. This is the climax of the journey.
• The Reward (17:30-18:00):
  • Pachi defeats the antagonist and rescues Ciel.
• The Road Back (18:00-18:14):
  • Pachi take Ciel back home.
• The Resurrection (18:00-):
  • It is not a death and rebirth, but Pachi has grown in strength and character. Ciel is also in a changed state.
• Return with the Elixir (18:00-):
  • Pachi returns with Ciel, who is now small, and the knowledge of his new strength. The “elixir” is the rescued Ciel and Pachi’s new abilities.

2. Three-Act Structure:

• Act 1 (0:00-3:00): Setup:
  • Introduction of characters (Pachi, Ciel) and the inciting incident (Ciel’s kidnapping).
  • Pachi’s initial attempt to rescue Ciel is thwarted.
  • The goal is established: rescue Ciel.
• Act 2 (3:00-17:30): Confrontation:
  • Pachi trains with the mentor.
  • Pachi faces a series of escalating challenges as he climbs the tower.
  • He learns new skills and overcomes obstacles.
• Act 3 (17:30-18:14): Resolution:
  • The final battle and rescue of Ciel.
  • The return home.
  • A small cliff hanger is added, will Ciel return to normal.

Comments:

• The narrative effectively follows both the Hero’s Journey and the Three-Act Structure, albeit in a condensed form.
• The pacing is quick, moving rapidly through the stages of the journey. This is appropriate for a short narrative.
• The mentor character is a classic trope, but it works well in this context.
• The escalating challenges in Act 2 create a sense of rising tension.
• The video does a good job of creating a clear goal, and then having the main character overcome obstacles to achieve that goal.
• The humor within the video, helps to keep the tone light, even during the fight scenes.
• The ending leaves the viewer with a question, that could be used to create a sequel.

Overall:

The video is a well-structured and engaging short narrative that effectively utilizes established storytelling principles.

PROMPT Please elaborate on dialogue, structure, character development, emotional impact both what works in this short narrative and what could be improved upon

RESPONSE Absolutely. Let’s delve deeper into the dialogue, structure, character development, and emotional impact of this short narrative.

Dialogue:

• What Works:
  • Conciseness: The dialogue is generally brief and to the point, which helps maintain the fast pacing. This is crucial for a short narrative.
  • Clear Character Voices: Even with limited dialogue, we get a sense of each character. Pachi is determined and slightly comedic, the Shishou is eccentric and powerful, and the enemies are mostly focused on combat.
  • Functional Dialogue: Most of the dialogue serves a clear purpose, either to advance the plot or to reveal character.
• What Could Be Improved:
  • Emotional Depth: The dialogue could be used to explore the characters’ emotions more. For instance, Pachi’s concern for Ciel could be expressed more explicitly.
  • Varied Dialogue: Some of the fight dialogue is repetitive. More varied and creative lines could make the battles more engaging.
  • Character relationships: More dialogue that shows the relationship between Pachi and Ciel, would help the viewer become more invested in the story.

Structure:

• What Works:
  • Clear Three-Act Structure: The narrative follows a classic structure, making it easy to follow.
  • Effective Pacing: The pacing is consistently fast, which keeps the viewer engaged.
  • Escalating Conflict: The increasing difficulty of the enemies creates a sense of rising tension.
• What Could Be Improved:
  • More Subtle Transitions: Some of the transitions between scenes are abrupt. More subtle transitions could improve the flow of the narrative.
  • Act 1 Expansion: Act one is very fast. A little more time spent establishing the normal world, and the relationship between Ciel and Pachi, would add to the impact of the kidnapping.

Character Development:

• What Works:
  • Pachi’s Growth: Pachi’s character arc is clear. He starts as a relatively weak character and grows stronger through training and experience.
  • Clear Character Roles: Each character serves a specific role in the story (mentor, antagonist, etc.).
• What Could Be Improved:
  • Ciel’s Character: Ciel is mostly a plot device. More development of her character could make her rescue more emotionally resonant.
  • Enemy Depth: The enemies are mostly one-dimensional. Adding more depth to their characters could make the battles more meaningful.
  • Shishou’s Backstory: A little bit of backstory for the Shishou, would add to the character.

Emotional Impact:

• What Works:
  • Sense of Urgency: The fast pacing and clear goal create a sense of urgency.
  • Comedic Relief: The humor helps to keep the tone light and engaging.
  • Satisfying Resolution: Pachi’s successful rescue of Ciel provides a satisfying resolution.
• What Could Be Improved:
  • Emotional Investment: More time spent developing the relationship between Pachi and Ciel could increase the emotional impact of her rescue.
  • Increased Stakes: Raising the stakes of the rescue could make the narrative more emotionally intense.
  • More Dramatic Moments: Adding more dramatic moments, such as near-defeats or moments of sacrifice, could increase the emotional impact.

In summary:

This short narrative is effective in its use of classic storytelling principles and its fast-paced delivery. However, there is room for improvement in terms of character development, dialogue, and emotional depth. By adding more nuance to these elements, the narrative could be even more engaging and impactful.

Thanks for reading to the end. For those who made it to the end, here’s what comes after the credits… Another Dave, some more AI, and a masterpiece of storytelling…