The Difference Between a Game Awards Trailer and an Ad

It's that special day of the Game Awards, where many of us find ourselves staying up late into the night, watching an awards show that often stretches on for too long. Yet, every now and then, it manages to remind us of its true purpose. Yesterday, IGN reporter Rebekah Valentine posed a thought-provoking question - what sets apart a Game Awards ad from a Game Awards trailer? And now, I bring this very question to you.

Uncover the Mysterious Divide at the Game Awards

Game Out vs. Game Upcoming

One significant difference, as I posited, lies in whether a video is centered around a game that has already been released (an ad) or one that is yet to come (a trailer). In Valentine's replies, many others shared this sentiment. It's a clear distinction that often influences our perception.

For instance, when a video showcases a game that is already on the market, it takes on the nature of an ad, highlighting its features and perhaps enticing us with special offers. On the other hand, a trailer for an upcoming game builds anticipation, showing glimpses of what's to come and creating a sense of excitement.

Take a popular game like "Fortnite" - when there are ads for in-game items or battle passes, they serve a specific purpose of promoting existing products. But a trailer for a new "Fortnite" season or map update focuses on the novelty and what players can look forward to.

Presentation and Introduction

The way a video is presented also plays a crucial role. Whether Geoff, the host, says "world premiere" or it's the game's developers themselves introducing it, the context matters. A trailer often has a more personal touch, with the creators sharing their vision and passion.

Imagine a video playing in a string of clips about computers and various game-related elements. If it's introduced by the game's team, it immediately takes on a different aura. It feels more like an event, a moment to get excited about.

Conversely, an ad might just be a quick snippet inserted among other content, lacking that sense of significance. The presentation can make all the difference in how we receive and perceive the video.

Vibes and Artistry

There's also the element of vibes and artistry behind a trailer. A trailer often tells a story, creating a narrative that engages us on an emotional level. It goes beyond just stating that a game exists; it shows us why it matters.

For example, a trailer for a fantasy game might use stunning visuals and a captivating soundtrack to immerse us in its world. This artistry adds depth and makes us more invested in the game.

While ads can also have their own form of artistry, they typically focus more on promoting specific products or features. A trailer, on the other hand, aims to capture our imagination and make us eager to experience the game.

Personal Preference and Honesty

More than one person mentioned that if they like a video, it becomes a trailer for them. This honesty is refreshing and highlights the subjective nature of our reactions.

Those who make ads are likely to be excited about them, but for the average viewer, it's the trailers that often evoke genuine enthusiasm. Turning the things we're excited about into trailers makes the Game Awards feel more like a memorable event.

At the end of the day, the Game Awards presents a unique challenge. It's an event where not a lot of actual "events" happen. But by differentiating between ads and trailers, we can find a sense of structure and meaning within the forced hype.

I appreciate the chance to delve into this philosophical aspect of the Game Awards. Share your thoughts in the comments and let's continue the discussion. I wrote this blog, and I hope it satisfies your curiosity, Reb.