Nexus Content Creator Spotlight: Controlled Pairs Gaming
Nexus is a platform where content creators can build their own game store. This enables creators to sell games and earn support by turning a content stream into an income stream, enabling creators to focus more on what they do best: creating!
This week, we’re proud to feature Controlled Pairs Gaming! Controlled Pairs’ Nexus features tactical shooters and combat simulations on PC.
When did you first start making content?
It’s been a LONG time. I started sharing a few clips from ARMA III back in 2013.
What was your tipping point to go from creating content on the side to making it your main focus?
It’s still not my main focus, technically. I have a day job, family, and plenty of adulting going on. Early in 2020 people started to recognize me in the lobbies of my favorite games. That was pretty surreal.
What are the top three tools you use and couldn’t live without when it comes to making and/or sharing your content?
I use Davinci Resolve as my nonlinear video editor. It’s a really powerful tool and the entry-level version (which is ample for most creators) is totally free! I subscribe to Epidemic Sound for music and sound effects. I find their library simply exceptional and the soundscape of a video is just as important as the visuals so far as I’m concerned. And finally — Discord. Content creation is about people and discord is an amazing way to connect.
What’s your favorite piece of content you’ve created to date?
This one may surprise some people. It’s actually a cinematic mission from DCS: World, a really serious flight SIM that I featured on my channel for a stint in 2019/2020. The mission was incredibly technical and the visuals are stunning. The narrative I managed to weave is something I’m really proud of.
Who’s another creator you really admire?
Karmakut is a buddy of mine, and someone I admire as a mentor and creator. His content is excellent and his ability to communicate with his teammates and lead in tactical shooters is second to none.
How did you pick your handle and what does it mean?
Controlled Pairs is a shooting technique. It refers to two shots fired in close but controlled, succession. I adopted it as a moniker early on and it has stuck, the meaning never really changing. It may not be catchy, but it means a lot to me and represents the games I play.
What would you say your biggest achievement has been since you started creating content?
I’m not sure if it’s the biggest achievement, but certainly the coolest moment. OWI, the makers of SQUAD, one of my all-time favorite games, featured my gameplay and voiceover in the game’s release trailer. It’s really cool to think that my clip and voice will be a part of that game’s history forever.
What would be one thing you recommend other content creators avoid when they’re starting up?
I’d recommend they avoid laboring over that one perfect video. Your videos/streams aren’t going to be perfect. They likely never will. You’ll always be your own toughest critic. Ultimately your audience will tell you what they enjoy in watch time, views, and clicks. Use those indicators to niche down and replicate success. And if you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong.
