The Pros and Cons of Cut-Scenes

Cut-scenes, cinematic events that progress the storyline (or other events) without (or with very little) player interaction, are commonplace, and exist in many, many games. Many people view cut-scenes differently. Some see them as an artistic way to address the storyline, while others find them an unnecessary break from actual gameplay. There are, of course, benefits and detriments to using cut-scenes.

Some games or series, like Metal Gear Solid, use hours of cut-scenes to paint a vivid story with multiple elements. Others use less, but still as important, unchangeable moments. These games tend to be one directional, with player actions effecting the storyline little, as possible actions could lead to dozens of necessary cut-scenes for every default one. Additionally, the cut-scenes may ruin player immersion, with the act of the computer taking over their actions removing their mind from the situation. However, they allow the story teller to be easier understood, as if you are doing multiple things at the time of a conversation (say fighting a robot while your (a.i.) teammates are discussing what to do next) it can be very difficult to listen to them while still playing effectively.(I'm looking at you Mass Effect. And you have cutscenes, so shame on you) You can also usually skip past them on your second time through, or if you are too impatient to watch them. These are also great tools for the developer and storyteller, as if you are telling a story, you want people to pay attention.

On the other hand, you encounter the occasional game like Skyrim, where there are no cutscenes whatsoever. You can shape each individual moment to a reasonable degree, and can continue to act while characters are conversing (provided you are not directly taking part in the conversation). However, there are still problems with this. The entire first five minutes of the game
(a scripted event that is the same each time) runs like a cut-scene, with the direction you are looking the only thing you can control. You can also not skip past it, as it is part of the game itself, not a short movie. If you create new accounts often, this can get very frustrating. This does allow for a larger range of choices though, as certain events you can break off by just running away, or attacking an enemy who is trying to give you a speech. It also makes the game feel very connected, with all things part of the others. Some find this more immersive, and easier to connect with.

Personally, I don't mind cut-scenes, as long as they are well done and add to the story. That said, the interactivity you get without them can be nice as well, provided it gives you things to do or ways to interact with the world in scripted events.