In our series, Inside XR Design, we’re diving into the art of crafting exceptional VR trailers using only in-game footage. Forget about complex mixed reality setups or intricate compositing. With smart planning and a reliable strategy, you can create something incredible. Stick with me because, by the end of this article, I’ll share a checklist of must-know technical details to ensure your trailer shines, and I’ll showcase a trailer that perfectly embodies everything we’ll discuss.
You can watch the complete video below, or if you prefer, keep reading for an adapted text version.
Let’s pause for a moment to understand why trailers are so crucial in the first place.
Here’s the deal: your trailer is what actually sells your game, not the game itself. You could develop the best game ever, but if you can’t effectively convey to people why they should give it a shot, then many simply won’t. That’s why it’s imperative to treat the marketing of your game as an integral part of the development process. Devoting years to creating a game but only weeks to crafting what attracts buyers isn’t the best way to allocate your time.
So, how do you create a trailer that captures attention without the complexity of mixed reality capture? Let’s dive into three straightforward lessons.
The Hook
The first, and arguably most vital lesson, is about the hook. The hook is what makes your game stand out. It’s that one compelling element that makes players think, "I have to try that."
This could be unique combat, an innovative art style, a creative weapon, or an engaging mechanic that sets your game apart. It’s the signature of your game.
This hook should make your game appealing or intriguing compared to others in the genre (meaning you should be playing other titles in the space you’re working in). Without the hook, people won’t have a reason to opt for your game over a similar one.
Here’s a crucial point: for your trailer to have a hook, your game needs one. If you haven’t identified your game’s hook, figuring that out is step one, even before considering making a trailer.
Let’s examine the hook in action with an example. The trailer we’re going to explore is from a game called Hellsweeper VR (2023) from Mixed Realms. Watch and see if you can identify the hook:
So, did you catch the hook? If you thought "unique combat," you’re right. Before any logos appear, we’re treated to 10 seconds of genuinely unique-looking VR combat, featuring intriguing weapons, powers, and aerial maneuvers.
The trailer emphasizes combat throughout, foregoing lengthy lore or abstract exposition—it continues to showcase the hook. The message? Here’s why you’ll want to play our game.
Show, Don’t Tell
This brings us to our next essential point: show, don’t tell. Exceptional trailers demonstrate a game’s appeal through visuals. Especially in VR, viewers need to see the fun element to grasp why they should don a headset and dive in.
Boneworks (2019) by Stress Level Zero exemplifies this, letting its gameplay do all the talking. Let’s take a look:
The trailer cleverly pieces together unique moments, giving us a mental picture of what playing the game feels like.
Story Structure
Now, onto our third lesson: telling a story.
To clarify, by "telling a story," I don’t mean explaining your game’s narrative.
The objective is to show viewers what they’ll do and how they’ll feel when engaging with your game. That’s the story your trailer should convey.
While there might be a temptation to capture general gameplay footage and then try to stitch the best clips together later, a more effective approach is to decide beforehand what key moments you want your audience to see.
Plan not just the moments you wish to highlight but also arrange them in a narrative arc—an introduction, rising action, and a climax that leaves a lasting impression.
Respawn Entertainment nailed this with their trailer for Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond (2020). Watch how they choreographed and executed deliberate moments to craft a cohesive story on the player experience.
Continue on Page 2: Technical Checklist & Final Example »
Stay tuned for the next part, where we’ll cover a technical checklist and share a final exemplary trailer!
