In our ongoing series, Inside XR Design, we’re delving into the art of crafting exceptional VR trailers using only in-game footage. Forget about complex mixed reality setups or intricate compositing. With good planning and a tried-and-true approach, you can create something truly astounding. Stick around until the end, as I’ll be sharing a checklist of critical technical points to elevate your trailer, along with an example that perfectly embodies our discussion.
If you’re eager to dive right in, you can find the complete video below. Alternatively, keep reading for my adapted text version.
So, why do trailers matter so much in the first place? Let’s get on the same wavelength here: it’s not your game that sells itself; it’s your trailer that does the trick.
You might have developed the most amazing game ever, but if you can’t convey to people why they should give it a whirl, many just won’t. Therefore, it’s crucial not to treat marketing as an afterthought in game development—it’s integral to the process. Spending years on development and only a couple of weeks on creating something that draws players in isn’t the most efficient use of your time.
Now, how do you design a trailer that grabs attention without the hassle of mixed reality capture? Here are three straightforward lessons to consider.
### The Hook
Our first and perhaps most vital topic is the hook. This is the unique element that makes your game memorable—the one thing that compels someone to think, “I want to be part of that.”
It might be the thrilling combat, an art style that’s refreshingly different, an innovative weapon, or a game mechanic that sets you apart. This aspect is your game’s signature.
It’s essential that your hook is remarkably fun or intriguing when compared to other titles in your genre. Yes, that means you should actively immerse yourself in other games within your genre. Without a standout hook, players might not see any reason to choose your game over others.
But here’s the catch: your game needs a hook for your trailer to have one. If you’re unsure what your game’s hook is, nailing this down should be your priority before you even think of making a trailer.
Let’s see a hook in practice. Check out this trailer from Mixed Realms’ game, Hellsweeper VR (2023). As we watch, see if you can spot the hook:
So, what did you identify as the hook? If you mentioned something along the lines of “unique combat,” you’ve hit the mark. Right before any logos appear, we’re treated to 10 seconds of truly distinctive VR combat, showcasing intriguing weapons and powers, with dynamic aerial movements.
Throughout the trailer, the emphasis remains on the combat. We’re not bogged down by lore or abstract storylines; the hook takes center stage, clearly saying, “This is why you want to play our game.”
### Show, Don’t Tell
This leads us to our next point: show, don’t tell. The best trailers don’t narrate what’s great—they reveal it. This is especially true for VR; people need to witness the fun to understand why they should don a headset and check out your game.
Developed by Stress Level Zero, Boneworks (2019) perfectly illustrates this by letting gameplay scenes do all the talking. Let’s watch:
This trailer strings together a series of unique moments players can experience, painting a vivid picture of what gameplay feels like.
### Story Structure
Onto our third lesson: the art of storytelling.
Now, by “tell a story,” I’m not suggesting you explain your game’s plot. Your aim is to convey what players will do and how they’ll feel during gameplay. That’s the story your trailer should tell.
Rather than capturing random gameplay and figuring out how to splice it together afterward, it’s better to plan out the key moments you want to highlight.
Decide ahead of time which scenes to showcase and arrange them into a narrative arc. Put simply, this means building up with an introduction, rising action, and a memorable climax.
This is exactly what Respawn Entertainment achieved with their remarkable trailer for Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond (2020). Watch closely as they carefully choreograph and stage scenes to weave a cohesive narrative about the player’s experience.
### Continue on Page 2: Technical Checklist & Final Example »
