Game Trailer Production
Introduction
Hocus Pocus Studio is a BAFTA-nominated London animation studio specialising in creating game trailers and cinematics for mobile, console, and PC titles. Game trailers need to grab attention fast, telling a story while showing gameplay at its best.
We work directly in Unity, Unreal, and custom engines for real-time capture, and also use Maya, Blender, and After Effects for character animation and cinematic sequences. This lets us combine authentic gameplay footage with augmented sections that can add drama, fun and personality.
Because many campaigns are confidential — under NDA, tied to unannounced titles, or subject to publisher restrictions — we do not list all work publicly or name every client. We can share private links and references on request. The public samples below give a clear sense of our approach and production values.
Watch Our Game Trailer Reel
Mobile Mashup
Game trailer mash-up showcasing some mobile work.
Lightyear Frontier
Cinematic trailer created for Lightyear Frontier, blending gameplay capture with custom animated sequences.
Mobile Puzzle Game (Client Undisclosed)
Promotional trailer for a leading mobile puzzle game.
What is Game Trailer Production?
Game trailer production involves blending in-engine capture with creative animation and storytelling. Trailers can be:
- Launch trailers for console, PC, and mobile
- Cinematics to introduce a game’s story or characters
- Teasers and short promos for campaigns
- Augmented gameplay trailers with added animation or VFX
At Hocus Pocus Studio we create trailers that feel authentic to players while elevating the game world with imaginative cinematic touches. We also produce Explainer Video Production and Brand Animation for game and entertainment campaigns.
Case Study: Lightyear Frontier
For Lightyear Frontier, we delivered a cinematic trailer that combined real-time capture with additional animation to enhance the sense of exploration and atmosphere. The trailer helped position the game as a distinctive console release.
Console game trailer for Lightyear Frontier with cinematic animation.
How Much Does a Game Trailer Cost?
Budgets vary depending on scope, style, and delivery needs. Factors include:
- Engine capture (Unity, Unreal, or custom)
- Additional animation in Maya, Blender, and After Effects
- Cinematic sequences vs gameplay only
- Voiceover, music, and sound design
- Campaign length and number of versions
- Rights and usage
As a guide, game trailers typically range from £12,000–£40,000 depending on complexity.
How Long Does It Take to Make a Game Trailer?
Most game trailers take 4–6 weeks once assets are provided. Complex cinematics or multiple campaign versions may extend timelines. We’re used to working to tight campaign deadlines and can develop quickly when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you only work in Unity?
No. We capture in Unity and Unreal, and we can integrate directly with custom engines.
Can you combine cinematics and gameplay?
Yes. We often animate characters or environments in Maya, Blender, or After Effects, then blend them with gameplay for added drama.
Do you handle console and mobile equally?
Yes – we have experience across mobile, console, and PC trailers.
How much should I budget for a game trailer?
Budgets typically start around £12,000, with larger cinematic projects requiring £20,000–£40,000.
Can you deliver quickly for campaign deadlines?
Yes. Our pipeline is set up for agile development and fast turnaround.