We've decided to take a look back and celebrate what we consider to be the top 25 videogame-related cinematics of all time. These can be in-engine cutscenes or pre-rendered openings or even E3 trailers. While looks are a big part of why we like these cinematics, some have been picked for their storytelling, others for their technical achievements, and there are also a few we picked just because they're really, really cool.
Today we bring you our picks for numbers 10 through 6.
15. Final Fantasy VIII (PS2) - Opening
Final Fantasy VIII is nine years old yet its opening montage is still one of the best examples of pre-rendered artistry you'll find. Rinoa is hot, Squall's gunblade is wicked cool, and the rousing soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu is absolutely unforgettable. This opening still gives us chills.
Click here to view it.
14. StarCraft (PC) - 2nd Zerg Cutscene
A group of Terran space marines enter a vast Zerg-infected space station and learn the hard way that it's not always Miller time. Just as these armored lushes sit down with their brews the Zerg show up to make the last few moments of their lives miserable. Even though
StarCraft is rated Teen, this shocking cutscene is not for the kiddies. It's violent, bloody, and intense. Just the way we like it.
Click here to view it.
13. World of Warcraft (PC) - Opening
What
WoW addicts like best about the opening for their controlled gaming substance of choice is how it depicts locales and characters that they recognize. It's easy to look back at the hot pre-rendered graphics and say, "Hey, I've been there! That's Ironforge!" or "Check it out! That's Agamand Mills!" Sure, people may be all hot for those fancy new Blood Elves in the Burning Crusade expansion pack intro, but nothing will ever make us forget the awesome original introduction.
Click here to view it.
12. WarHammer 40K Dawn of War (PC) - Opening
There is nothing subtle about the pre-rendered opening to
WarHammer 40K Dawn of War. The brutal, gritty, and downright dirty violence of the
WarHammer franchise is captured perfectly in this heart-pounding tour de force. Words cannot do this clip justice, just watch it and enjoy.
Click here to view it.
11. Metal Gear Solid 2 (PS2) - Opening
It's a dark and stormy night. A lone figure walks down the George Washington bridge in New York City. He breaks into a run, peels off his poncho, and jumps off the edge. This is how
Metal Gear Solid 2 begins and it's easily one of the most memorable moments in video game cinematic history.
Click here to view it.
