Scripted sequence
Encyclopedia
In video games, a scripted sequence is a pre-defined series of events that occurs when triggered by player location or actions.
Some scripted sequences are merely used to play short cut scenes that the player has little control of. However, they are commonly used in games such as Half-Life or Call of Duty
to bring in new enemies or challenges to the player in a seemingly surprising manner while they are still playing. They can also present further plot points without requiring the player to take a break by watching a cut scene. The intended results of this style of presentation is to increase immersion
and to maintain a smoothly-flowing experience that keeps the player's interest.
However, games such as Call of Duty have been particularly criticised for a reliance on these sequences, as many feel they tend to guide a player through a game by the invisible hand of the developers. Also, the use of scripted sequences tends to diminish replay value as the surprise effect is negated upon subsequent play-throughs.
Some scripted sequences are merely used to play short cut scenes that the player has little control of. However, they are commonly used in games such as Half-Life or Call of Duty
Call of Duty
Call of Duty is a first-person shooter video game developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision in 2003. It is the first game in a series with the same name. The game simulates the infantry and combined arms warfare of World War II. The game is based on the Quake III: Team Arena engine...
to bring in new enemies or challenges to the player in a seemingly surprising manner while they are still playing. They can also present further plot points without requiring the player to take a break by watching a cut scene. The intended results of this style of presentation is to increase immersion
Immersion (virtual reality)
Immersion is the state of consciousness where an immersant's awareness of physical self is diminished or lost by being surrounded in an engrossing total environment; often artificial. This mental state is frequently accompanied with spatial excess, intense focus, a distorted sense of time, and...
and to maintain a smoothly-flowing experience that keeps the player's interest.
However, games such as Call of Duty have been particularly criticised for a reliance on these sequences, as many feel they tend to guide a player through a game by the invisible hand of the developers. Also, the use of scripted sequences tends to diminish replay value as the surprise effect is negated upon subsequent play-throughs.