Anyone else noticing lower reach on Shorts lately?

Short videos used to be easier to push more widely, but lately YouTube is more selective before giving reach. Retention and initial engagement are more important than view count. This isn't just because of oversaturation; the algorithm now prioritizes clips that keep viewers watching. If a video doesn't maintain good retention, it's very difficult to surpass 1,000 views, even if the content is similar to what previously reached 10,000 views

What I see is the same crap of random faceless footage with a supposed explanation (storytelling) overlaying it

I have nothing against this kind of content but make it original, not the same footage and barely clone story in 100 channels

"AI slop" is becoming good in comparison of these stupid "storytelling" videos

Yes, I have noticed the same drop. It feels like shorts are way more crowded now, and small changes in watch time or engagement make a big difference. Lately it seems harder to get that initial push unless the hook is really strong.