What Are Cinematics
Cinematics are visually-driven sequences—often created using techniques from filmmaking and animation—that are used across various forms of media to convey a story, evoke emotions, or provide context. They are typically designed to be immersive, combining visuals, sound, music, and sometimes dialogue to create a powerful narrative moment. Wikipedia: Cinematic explains how cinema, including cinematics, blends these elements to produce compelling storytelling.
While widely known for their role in video games (as cutscenes), cinematics are also used in:
Films and TV: For pre-visualization or stylized sequences, helping to plan and visualize scenes before filming.
Advertising and trailers: To promote games, movies, or products, showcasing key narrative elements to attract audiences.
Virtual production and simulation: In architecture, automotive, education, and more, helping to simulate environments and scenarios before production.
Cinematic animations: Short films or concept pieces showcasing visual storytelling skills. Platforms like ArtStation often feature these types of projects, illustrating how cinematics can blend film and digital art.
Cinematics can be:
Pre-rendered: Created beforehand using high-end rendering engines for maximum quality, as seen in many cinematic animations or films.
Real-time: Rendered live during playback, often using game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity, offering interactivity while maintaining a cinematic experience.
Their main purposes include:
Telling or supporting a story: Helping to convey narrative moments and character development.
Creating emotional impact: Through visuals, music, and sound design to evoke strong emotions in the audience.
Introducing characters or ideas: Used to establish key narrative elements in both films and video games.
Building atmosphere and tone: Cinematics set the mood and establish the visual style of a project, from the lighting to the color grading.
Enhancing the visual experience: Elevating the overall aesthetic of a game, film, or commercial.
Cinematics often blur the line between film and digital art. They are not limited to any one industry—they’re a vital tool for storytelling and presentation in modern visu