Publishers are always looking for innovative ways to capture the attention of gamers and promote their latest releases. Traditionally, this has involved flashy trailers showcasing a game’s mechanics and storyline. However, a new trend has emerged, where esteemed British actors are being enlisted to provide explanations and insights into the games. The most recent example of this unique approach is evident in the trailer for Capcom’s upcoming release, Dragon’s Dogma 2, scheduled for launch on March 22. In this trailer, viewers are treated to a detailed overview of the game by none other than the renowned actor, Ian McShane.

For those unfamiliar with McShane, he is recognized for his roles in popular shows like Deadwood and American Gods, as well as his appearances in the John Wick films. Now, thanks to a collaboration between Capcom and PlayStation, McShane takes center stage in a trailer that serves as an insightful guide to Dragon’s Dogma 2. Clocking in at nearly eight minutes, the trailer offers a comprehensive breakdown of the game’s narrative, world, and combat mechanics, providing potential buyers with a valuable crash course on what to expect.

McShane adeptly navigates through the game’s premise, emphasizing the protagonist’s daunting task of confronting a colossal dragon that has plagued the lands for generations. Subsequently, the trailer showcases the game’s captivating landscapes and gameplay features, with McShane’s narration adding depth and clarity to elements such as different vocations and the pawn system, essential for players to defend themselves against formidable adversaries.

While the delivery of copious information in a trailer can often be mundane, McShane’s rich, resonant voice, reminiscent of his memorable performances in Deadwood, lends a captivating allure to the presentation. Notably, this isn’t the first instance of a game adopting this approach. In January, Tekken 8 enlisted Brian Cox, known for his role in Succession, to star in a ‘Story So Far’ video, succinctly summarizing the intricate rivalries within the fighting game franchise. The success of this video in making the game’s lore accessible to both new and returning fans mirrors the impact of McShane’s Dragon’s Dogma 2 trailer, further emphasizing the effectiveness of this trend in piquing interest and engagement.

Ultimately, the utilization of esteemed British actors to provide insights into video games has proven to be a compelling and effective strategy in captivating audiences and generating excitement for upcoming releases. As this trend continues to gain traction, it presents a unique opportunity for publishers to enhance the appeal of their games and create immersive experiences that resonate with a diverse audience.