Our Inside XR Design series dives into the world of top immersive creations. Today, we’re unraveling the secrets to crafting a stellar VR trailer using only in-game footage—no mixed reality setups, no complex software—just clever strategies and a reliable blueprint. Stick around, because I’ll dish out a handy checklist of must-know technical tips to enhance your trailer and share an exemplary trailer that nails what we’re about to discuss.
You can catch the full video below, or read on for a text version of our insights.
Let’s start by getting on the same page about why trailers are essential.
Here’s the deal: your game by itself isn’t enough to propel sales. It’s your trailer that ignites interest and sells your game. You could have developed the most immersive game ever, but if you can’t effectively convey why someone should care enough to play it, too many potential players will pass it by. It’s essential to plan your marketing strategy as part of your game development process. Investing years into creating a game but skimping on the promotional content is a misstep you can’t afford.
So, how do you construct a jaw-dropping trailer without the chaos of mixed-reality capture? Let’s break it down into three straightforward lessons.
The Hook
The first, and arguably the most pivotal lesson today is all about the hook. This is the element that makes your game captivating. It’s the aspect that makes people exclaim, “I need to try that!”
This could be intriguing combat mechanics, a distinctive art style, a quirky weapon, or a gameplay technique unseen in the competition. Think of it as your game’s unique fingerprint.
Your hook should be inherently interesting or fun compared to peers in your genre (which means you should indeed be familiar with those other games). Without a clear hook, players won’t have a compelling reason to choose your game over others in the marketplace.
And here’s a crucial point: if your trailer is to have a hook, then your game must already possess one. If you’re unclear about your game’s hook, that’s the first problem to solve before you even think about trailer production.
Let’s observe the hook in action. The first example is from Mixed Realms’ game, Hellsweeper VR (2023). Watch and see if you can spot what the hook is:
So, did you get it? If you picked up on “unique combat,” you nailed it. Right from the start—before even seeing the logos—we get 10 seconds of truly distinctive VR combat, with players wielding fascinating weapons and powers while soaring through the air.
And the emphasis on combat persists throughout the trailer. No tangents into story or extraneous lore; they consistently highlight the hook. The trailer boldly proclaims, “This is why you want to play our game.”
Show, Don’t Tell
This leads us to our next principle: show, don’t tell. A top-notch trailer illuminates a game’s thrills through visuals instead of narration. Particularly in VR, prospective players need to witness the excitement to feel prompted to don the headset and dive in.
Take Boneworks (2019) by developer Stress Level Zero as an example. Their trailer masterfully showcases gameplay, letting it stand boldly on its own. Let’s take a look:
The trailer expertly compiles an array of distinctive play moments, constructing a vivid image of what diving into the game will feel like.
Story Structure
Now, let’s address our third lesson: weaving a story.
When we talk story, it’s not about laying out your game’s plot. It’s about illustrating what players will do and the sensations they’ll experience while playing. That’s the narrative your trailer should unfold.
Instead of capturing game footage willy-nilly and puzzling it all together later, a strategic approach is to predetermine which moments are crucial for viewers to see.
Decide precisely on the moments worth spotlighting, and craft them into a narrative arc—a cohesive flow with an introduction, rising excitement, and a climactic scene that leaves a lasting impression.
Developer Respawn Entertainment executed this perfectly with their trailer for Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond (2020). While watching, notice how they carefully scripted and executed key moments to weave a coherent story about the player’s journey through the game.
Continue on Page 2: Technical Checklist & Final Example »
And that’s your primer to constructing a standout VR trailer—stay tuned for the follow-up where we delve into technical tips and check out a final trailblazing example!
