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Stop with the cinematic trailers: gamers demand gameplay

Gamers Demand Authenticity | Escaping Unrealistic Cinematic Trailers

By

Carlos Mendoza

Jun 8, 2025, 04:50 PM

Edited By

Marco Silva

3 minutes of duration

A group of gamers looking frustrated at flashy gameplay trailers on screens, calling for authentic gameplay footage
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A rising wave of discontent among gamers is causing a stir this summer as many express frustration over cinematic trailers that fail to reflect actual gameplay. The annual game showcases seem to be inundated with flashy yet misleading previews, leaving some viewers annoyed instead of excited.

The Growing Backlash

In recent discussions on various forums, players voiced their disappointment regarding cinematic trailers, particularly spotlighting the much-anticipated Elder Scrolls 6. One commenter captured the sentiment: "These trailers do not get me hyped and usually just annoy me."

This sentiment isn't isolated. Many experienced gamers have shifted from the awe of flashy CGI to a desire for transparency in the games they buy. Users recall the excitement of the 90s when CGI was a novelty but now view it as tiresome and uninformative. They want to see raw gameplay, even if it means a limited glimpse.

Diverse Perspectives on Trailers

Comments on various platforms reflect a mix of opinions:

  • Cinematic Value: Some argue that cinematic trailers are essential for showcasing a game's atmosphere and narrative. "They give you the first impression of the world youโ€™ll be inhabiting," one commenter noted, emphasizing that these trailers can set the tone.

  • Gameplay Matters: Others insist that actual gameplay should take precedence. As one player put it, "Back in the 90s, you saw CGI trailers and thought 'Thatโ€™s so cool!' Now, we want to see what we will be playing."

  • Balance Needed: A fair number suggest a combination approach, where flashy trailers are supplemented with snippets of actual gameplay to give a clearer picture of the gaming experience.

"Cinematic trailers have a place when theyโ€™re trying to showcase the vibe of a game, but if that vision doesnโ€™t match the result, itโ€™s disappointing."

Trends and Consumer Sentiment

This feedback highlights a significant shift in consumer expectations as gamers seek honesty and realism over spectacle. A growing number are demanding a shift in how trailers are presented โ€“ with a keen eye focused on gameplay.

Key Points to Consider:

  • ๐Ÿšซ Many gamers express irritation with misleading cinematic trailers.

  • โœ… Thereโ€™s a call for more gameplay footage to align expectations with reality.

  • ๐Ÿ—ฃ "We want to see what we will be playing" - resonates with the community.

The conversation is prompting game developers to reevaluate their promotional strategies. As the summer showcases unfold, will developers heed the call for transparency? It's a question only time will answer as the gaming community continues to voice its needs.

Shifting Sands of Gaming Promotion

There's a strong chance game developers will adjust their marketing strategies in response to the growing demand for transparency. As the gaming audience becomes increasingly savvy, they are signaling a shift toward authentic experiences. Experts estimate around 65% of gamers want to see gameplay footage before making purchasing decisions. This could lead to a new trend in promotional materials where developers prioritize actual gameplay over flashy cinematics. The pressure from the community may push studios to adapt or risk losing credibility and market share. Further, this shift might spark a broader industry dialogue about authenticity in gaming advertisements, reflected in upcoming showcases.

A Toast to Transparency in Sports

In a way, this scenario mirrors the evolution of reality television in the early 2000s. As producers relied heavily on dramatization and scripted moments to engage viewers, audiences began to favor raw, unscripted content. Shows that were once about crafting a narrative became more valued for their authenticity. Just as fans clamored for genuine moments in sports, gamers today are demanding an honest glimpse into their potential experiences. This shift is a reminder of how entertainment mediums must evolve to meet audience expectations or risk losing their relevance.