CONTEXT: Historically, I have had mixed feelings towards AVGN, but ultimately I have enjoyed his stuff. Even when he is annoying, there is enough good stuff to counteract the bad.
AVGN's offerings on Swordquest and Ninja Gaiden were good and he didn't resort to the forced/contrived antics.
One thing that really sets AVGN apart from the rest of the crowd, IMO, is that he usually does a decent job incorporating a "guest star"/skit/creativity into some episodes. The Ninja from the Ninja Gaiden episode, the guy who does his theme song in Battle Toads episode, etc. etc. have all been memorable.
He has no budget, but he does an admirable job. His commentary is amusing, even if I don't always agree with it.