Game
What Are Cutscenes in Gaming?
Explore what cutscenes are and why these non-interactive cinematics are crucial for storytelling, character development, and lore in modern video games.
What is it?
A cutscene is a non-interactive sequence in a video game that temporarily removes gameplay control from the player. Its primary purpose is to advance the narrative, develop characters, provide exposition, or set the mood. These sequences are essentially short films embedded within the game, using cinematic techniques to tell a story. They can be pre-rendered videos (FMV), which are high-quality but not dynamic, or rendered in real-time using the game's engine, allowing for player-customized characters to appear seamlessly within the scene. They are a fundamental tool for game developers to guide the player through the game's lore and emotional arcs.
Why is it trending?
Cutscenes are trending due to their ever-increasing cinematic quality, often rivaling Hollywood productions in terms of visuals, voice acting, and direction. As games become more story-driven, developers use elaborate cutscenes to deliver pivotal plot twists and impactful emotional moments. They are also highly shareable content on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, where viewers enjoy watching streamers' reactions to key story beats. This social sharing amplifies their importance and turns them into major talking points within the gaming community, driving discussions about a game's narrative depth.
How does it affect people?
Cutscenes are designed to create a strong emotional connection between the player and the game. By showing characters' motivations, fears, and triumphs, they make the subsequent gameplay feel more meaningful and personal. A well-crafted cutscene can evoke joy, sadness, or excitement, deeply immersing the player in the game's world. However, their non-interactive nature can also be a point of contention. Some players feel they disrupt the flow of gameplay, leading to the popular debate around whether cutscenes should always be skippable. Ultimately, they shape the player's overall experience and memory of a game's story.