In-game cinematics often frustrate players when they are unskippable, yet the real challenge lies in capturing the audience’s attention without using force. According to Petr Pakař, Cinematic Director at Warhorse Studios, there are effective ways to keep scenes compelling even when a skip option is readily available.
“The essence is to make them as engrossing as possible. Ideally, the player should have no desire to skip; it should be a reward for them. Our philosophy is to craft scenes that are visually stunning, witty, exhilarating, and thick with tension.”
He noted that extended sequences are perfectly viable, provided they consistently deliver something substantial to the audience.
“Some of our cutscenes are quite long, but we strive to avoid monotony. The dialogue must be razor-sharp, and the pacing dynamic. Long takes and atmospheric shots can be both extensive and deeply captivating if executed correctly.”
Pakař believes the secret to masterful cinematics lies not in their duration, but in the quality of the script, the rhythm of the action, and the emotional investment of the player.
Source: iXBT.games