Versus Videos

Versus Videos are a type of online video on the website YouTube in which the host will discuss a hypothetical fight mainly involving fictional protagonists from graphic novels, films and television to determine the winner of the fight. Versus Videos can be made by anyone, meaning anyone can adopt the mantle of an “expert” and present their opinions as facts to those viewers less aware of the topic; at times, the recurring issue for some viewers concerns the host's KNOWLEDGE of the opposing protagonist’s abilities and histories, rather than who would win the hypothetical battle. Rule of thumb: be careful who you listen to. There are a general set of unwritten guidelines that YouTubers seem to adhere to, in no set order, when presenting a versus video: (a) the host of the versus video –regardless of their favourite character – should ALWAYS be fair and impartial about the fight; (b) the host of the versus video will discuss ALL the relevant historical and background information about the opposing protagonists; (c) the host of the versus video will discuss ALL the relevant strengths and weaknesses (if there’s any) of the opposing protagonists, and compare and contrast their respective abilities, skills and powers; (d) the host of the versus video will reach a conclusion, based on ALL the evidence, of how the hypothetical fight –in their UNBIASED opinion– will end; (e) the host of the versus video will usually seek the views and opinions of the viewers about the fight.