If you’re interested in how computer games work and want to have some fun after making a few successful bets on new online casinos, read about what cutscenes are in video games and why they are used.
Cutscenesย are short video or animated sequences in video games designed to tell the story, develop characters, or set the mood. These are moments when control is temporarily taken from the player, and they become a spectator. Cutscenes can range from just a few seconds to several minutes.
Why Are Cutscenes Used?
Cutscenes are added to games for several reasons:
- Explaining important story points.
- Showing complex events that are hard to present through regular gameplay.
- Creating emotional highlights.
- Immersing players into the gameโs world with stunning visuals.
They can be either interactive (where the player influences the events) or cinematic (where the player simply watches).
Why Are Cutscenes Important?
Cutscenes bridge the gap between games and movies. They help players connect with the characters, feel their emotions, and understand their motivations. Without them, many games would feel dry and less memorable. Think of a game as a play, and cutscenes as the key acts that add drama or reveal secrets.
Cutscenes are also a chance for developers to showcase their creativity with graphics, music, or unexpected plot twists.
Types of Cutscenes
There are a few main types of cutscenes:
- Cinematic (Pre-rendered):
High-quality scenes made in advance, like short movies.
Example: The intro in World of Warcraft or cutscenes in Final Fantasy.
- In-Engine:
These scenes happen within the game, using the same graphics as the gameplay. This keeps the experience seamless.
Example: Dialogues and events in The Witcher 3.
- Interactive:
Players can make decisions or take actions during these scenes, making them more engaging.
Example: Detroit: Become Human or Mass Effect.
- Minimalist:
Simple text or images with voiceovers, often found in indie games.
Example: The Undertale series.
Memorable Cutscenes in Games
Here are some iconic cutscenes that left a mark on players:
- “You’re Too Heavy” โ Shadow of the Colossus
The emotional ending reveals the cost of the heroโs actions, making it a powerful moment.
- The Beginning of The Last of Us
One of the most dramatic openings in gaming history, showing the start of the apocalypse and the loss of a loved one.
- A Choice in Heavy Rain
Players are forced to make tough decisions, like whether to go to extreme lengths to save a child.
- Talking to Your Wife โ Silent Hill 2
The final scene, with the hero hearing his wifeโs letter, reveals the tragedy of the story.
- Betrayal in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
The shocking moment when General Shepherd betrays the player.
- Flying to the Moon โ To the Moon
A touching ending where the main characterโs dream finally comes true, proving that great storytelling doesnโt need big budgets.
- The Normandy Crash โ Mass Effect 2
A breathtaking scene that introduces a new chapter and shows the scale of the disaster.
The Future of Cutscenes
As technology advances, cutscenes are becoming more realistic than ever, thanks to AI, virtual reality, and photogrammetry. Developers are also adding more interactive elements, allowing players to shape the story.
But the heart of cutscenes remains the same: the emotions they evoke. In the end, games arenโt just about funโtheyโre about stories weโll never forget.
Cutscenes are the soul of storytelling in video games. They let players see the story from a fresh perspective, dive deeper into the gameโs world, and experience unforgettable moments. What are the cutscenes that stuck with you?
Let’s take a look back at the coolest games of 2024 and see what’s coming in 2025.
Top games of 2024:
- CyberQuest 2077: Rebirth
A sequel to the iconic game, featuring an even bigger open world and a gripping, complex storyline.
- Elder Scrolls VI: Valenwood
The long-awaited entry in the series that took us to the forests of Valenwood, with stunning graphics and deep lore.
- Star Wars: Galactic Dominion
An epic space saga that lets you take part in massive battles in a galaxy far, far away.
Most anticipated games of 2025:
- Grand Theft Auto VI
Rockstar promises to take us back to Vice City with a brand-new story and a massive open world.
- Fable IV
A return to the magical world of Albion, where you can shape your own destiny and influence the world around you.
- Mass Effect: New Horizons
The next chapter of the space opera, exploring uncharted galaxies and introducing new alien races.