Reviving Interactive Cinema: Wales Interactive's Bold Approach to Gaming

In a unique blend of filmmaking and gaming, Wales Interactive is redefining the interactive movie genre. The studio, co-founded by Dr David Banner, who previously worked on iconic titles like Tomb Raider and Grand Theft Auto, has carved out a niche for itself by creating full-motion video (FMV) games that bypass traditional Hollywood distribution channels. By leveraging the flexibility of game platforms, Wales Interactive offers players an immersive storytelling experience where their choices shape the narrative. This innovative approach has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following, particularly with titles like Sker Ritual and Five Dates. The company's success lies in its ability to merge cinematic techniques with interactive gameplay, creating a fresh take on a decades-old concept.

Wales Interactive's journey began with the realization that FMV games, which were popular in the 1980s and 1990s, had potential for revival. Co-founder Richard Pring noted that while these games had fallen out of favor, they offered a unique way to engage audiences. "We saw an opportunity to bring back this genre and make it relevant again," he said. The studio's first major release, The Bunker, featured live-action footage and branching storylines, allowing players to influence the outcome of the narrative. This format not only provided a novel gaming experience but also opened doors for collaboration with local filmmakers and actors in Wales.

The development process for these FMV games is intricate, requiring a balance between traditional film production and game design. Producer Sam Leigh explained that the studio often shoots extensive footage, much of which may never be seen by players depending on their choices within the game. "It’s about creating a rich, multi-layered story that feels personal to each player," Leigh said. This approach allows for replayability, as players can explore different paths and outcomes, enhancing the overall engagement. The studio's custom framework enables them to visualize the game's structure before filming begins, streamlining the creative process.

One of Wales Interactive's most innovative projects, Five Dates, emerged during the pandemic when traditional filming became challenging. The team pivoted to an app-based format, where players control the protagonist's romantic endeavors through a fictional dating app. "The pandemic forced us to think creatively," said Pring. "We turned a limitation into an opportunity." Filmed remotely using smartphones, Five Dates was conceptualized, developed, and released in just 10 months, showcasing the studio's adaptability and resourcefulness. The game received widespread praise and even earned a BAFTA Cymru nomination, further solidifying Wales Interactive's reputation for pushing boundaries.

Wales Interactive's impact extends beyond the gaming industry. By fostering collaborations with writers, directors, and actors, the studio has revitalized interest in FMV games and introduced the genre to a new generation. Despite operating with a small team, Wales Interactive has achieved remarkable success, taking creative risks that larger studios might hesitate to pursue. "Their work has put Wales on the map as a hub for innovative game development," said Richard Hebblewhite, director of Games Talent Wales. The studio's commitment to creativity and experimentation continues to set it apart, proving that sometimes, less is more when it comes to making groundbreaking entertainment.