This innovative in-game feature showcases an enthralling transmedia scenario, ushering a thrilling future.
Diving headfirst into the intersection of gaming and cinematography, Thatgamecompany's latest project, Sky: Children of the Light, introduces an animated feature called The Two Embers: Part One, blurring the line between movies and video games like never before.
This cutting-edge amalgamation of film and gameplay breaks new ground, offering a seamless fusion rather than a simple crossover.
In a world dominated by isolated film adaptations from video game franchises, The Two Embers boldly stands apart by merging the two media forms within the game itself. This unique approach is facilitated by innovative in-game streaming technology and a collective simultaneous viewing experience (not to mention some top-notch game development software like the ones listed here).
The mouthwatering short film depicts the universe's origins, a golden age of stars nestled in the clouds, through a wordless narrative that transcends language barriers and appeals to a broader, universal audience. Produced by Light & Realm, Illusorium Studios, and Orchid, it leverages Thatgamecompany's proprietary video streaming technology for an early showing in the in-game Sky Cinema.
The story follows the heartwrenching tale of an orphaned child and a wounded manatee as they navigate a crumbling world plagued by darkness. The film's universal themes — sorrow, fury, and the power of compassion — resonate with viewers of all ages and prompt them to visualize a more empathetic world.
Constructed in Thatgamecompany's signature visual style, The Two Embers' narrative unfolds across two installments, paralleling the adventures of two children separated by time but forever bound by their intertwined fates. This intricate narrative structure weaves an enticing tapestry that promises to shape the destiny of the crumbling kingdom.
Thatgamecompany's Executive Creative Director and CEO, Jenova Chen, describes the ambitious project as a "theater experience, reimagined in a virtual world" where players shift from spectators to participants as each film chapter triggers new game content. This fusion ensures that storytelling transcends the film medium, enriching the Sky universe and fostering an immersive experience for players.
Determined to create an emotional impact, the film's wordless format and compelling narrative are deliberately designed to leave viewers touched, cherishing their loved ones — or even their pets — a little tighter after experiencing the deeply moving tale.
Sky: Children of the Light premiered its in-game streaming capabilities with an AURORA concert at Gamescom 2023, which brought more than 10,000 players together on a single server and snatched the limelight with two Guinness World Records. The AURORA concert is set to return for a limited re-run in June.
Sky: Children of the Light is accessible on various platforms, including PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, the App Store, and Google Play Store. So, grab your preferred device and get ready to embrace this groundbreaking fusion of film and gameplay, where stories unfold in a breathtaking living world meant to be experienced together.
- The Two Embers, an animated feature in Thatgamecompany's Sky: Children of the Light, exemplifies the merging of cinema and gaming, creating a unique blend of 3D animation, UI designs, and creative layouts.
- The first installment of The Two Embers, Part One, doesn't just cross over movie and video game elements, but integrates them, thanks to innovative streaming technology and top-notch game development software.
- Set in a world where a child and a wounded manatee navigate darkness, the film's narrative resonates globally, exploring themes such as sorrow, fury, and compassion, which are articulated through a wordless storyline.
- The universally appealing narrative of The Two Embers unfolds across two installments, mirroring the adventures of two children interlocked by fate, and promising to shape the destiny of the Sky universe.
- Executive Creative Director and CEO of Thatgamecompany, Jenova Chen, describes The Two Embers as a "theater experience reimagined in a virtual world," blending film and gameplay for a seamless immersion.
- The wordless format of The Two Embers is carefully designed to create an emotional impact, inspiring viewers to treasure their relationships and loved ones, including pets, more deeply.
- Sky: Children of the Light premiered its in-game streaming capabilities with an AURORA concert at Gamescom 2023, setting records and showcasing unprecedented multiplayer potential.
- Accessible on platforms like Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, smartphones, and tablets, Sky: Children of the Light invites players to explore and interact within this groundbreaking union of cinematography and gaming, witnessing the intersection of art, technology, and entertainment.
