Creating Compelling VR Trailers Without Mixed Reality Capture: Insights from XR Design

Diving into the realm of VR trailers, this installment of Inside XR Design takes a closer look at capturing stunning trailers exclusively with in-game footage. There’s no need for elaborate setups or intricate compositing—just some clever planning and a go-to strategy. Stick around because by the end, I’ll offer a checklist of crucial technical tips to make your trailer shine, plus a great example that encapsulates all these principles.

You can watch the complete video below, but I’ve also prepared a written version you can read here.

First things first, let’s clarify the significance of trailers.

Here’s the simple truth: your trailer is what will sell your game. Even if you’ve created a masterpiece, without a compelling trailer, potential players might miss out entirely. That’s why thinking of your game’s marketing as just an afterthought isn’t just unwise—it’s detrimental. Developing your game is just one part of the equation. If you dedicate years to creating your game but only a fraction of that time to the trailer that sells it, you’re not making the most of your efforts.

So, what does it take to craft a captivating trailer without relying on the complexities of mixed reality capture? Let’s boil it down to three straightforward guidelines.

The Hook

The first and arguably the most crucial aspect is the hook. This is what makes your game memorable. It’s the one thing that viewers will latch onto and think, “I’ve got to try that.” It might be innovative combat mechanics, an eye-catching art style, a creative weapon, or a gameplay element that sets your game apart. It’s the signature of your gaming experience.

This hook needs to stand out as particularly entertaining or intriguing within your game’s genre. And that implies you should actively engage with other games in the same category. Without this defining element, potential players won’t have a compelling reason to choose your game over others.

Now, here’s a critical insight: for your trailer to have a hook, your game itself must possess one. If you can’t pin down what your game’s hook is, that’s the first challenge you need to tackle before considering a trailer.

Let’s check out an example where this hook concept is in full force. Observe the trailer from Hellsweeper VR (2023) by Mixed Realms and see if you can spot the hook.

Indeed, the hook is “unique combat.” Before any logos flash on the screen, we’re treated to 10 seconds of fresh VR combat featuring imaginative weapons and aerial maneuvers. The whole trailer sticks with this theme. There’s no time wasted on lore or exposition—it keeps the focus on the hook. The message is clear: this is what makes their game a must-play.

Show, Don’t Tell

Moving on, let’s talk about the principle of "show, don’t tell." Exceptional trailers illustrate the strengths of a game rather than just verbalizing them. In VR, this idea is crucial—viewers need to see the excitement to understand why they should don a headset and enter your game’s world.

A prime example is Boneworks (2019) by Stress Level Zero, where gameplay is the true storyteller. Check out how the trailer assembles an array of distinctive moments that together paint a vivid picture of what it’s like to play the game.

Story Structure

Finally, let’s discuss the storytelling aspect.

Importantly, “tell a story” does not mean “narrate your game’s plot.” Instead, focus on demonstrating what players will do and how they’ll feel during gameplay. That’s the narrative your trailer should convey.

While it might be tempting to gather miscellaneous in-game clips and string them together, a superior approach is to plan which key moments will best engage your viewers. Decide in advance not just what to show but arrange these elements into a narrative arc. This means structuring your trailer with an introduction, escalating action, and a memorable climax.

This is precisely what Respawn Entertainment achieved with their Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond (2020) trailer. Notice how they skillfully orchestrated scenes to craft a cohesive story that evokes the player’s emotional journey.

Ready to dive deeper? Continue on Page 2 for a Technical Checklist & Final Example.