As a devoted fan of thatgamecompany's *Sky: Children of the Light*, I'm thrilled about their latest venture into storytelling with the in-game animated feature, *The Two Embers*. This project, marking the first of its kind within the game, is set to premiere its limited screening of *The Two Embers: Part One* starting July 21st. This silent animated feature will delve into the origin story of Sky, captivating players with its unique art style and emotional depth.
A Bit More About the Story
*The Two Embers* unfolds in two parts, with Part One focusing on the journeys of two children, separated by time yet connected in profound ways. The narrative begins with a young orphan living on the outskirts of The Ruler's City, a once-thriving metropolis now teetering on the edge of collapse. The story takes a poignant turn when the child discovers a wounded baby manatee, sparking a tale of grief, loneliness, and the healing power of small acts of kindness. Above, the Ruler observes the kingdom's decline as a menacing storm approaches.
This feature film eschews dialogue and voiceovers, relying solely on visuals, music, and emotional resonance to convey the child's journey of sorrow and the manatee's role as a beacon of hope. *Sky: Children of the Light* has given us a sneak peek with the trailer for *The Two Embers: Part One*, which you can watch right here:
Every week, a new chapter of the film will be unlocked in Sky Cinema, an in-game movie theatre specifically designed for this experience. Alongside each chapter, new in-game content will be released, allowing players to explore the story more deeply through interactive elements.
A Unique Way of Releasing an Animated Feature Within a Game
Instead of opting for a traditional release as a standalone film or on a streaming platform, thatgamecompany has chosen to integrate *The Two Embers* directly into *Sky: Children of the Light*. This innovative approach not only enhances the game's narrative but also elevates it beyond typical gaming experiences. With the upcoming Aurora's concert and now this full-fledged animated feature, *Sky* continues to push the boundaries of what a game can be.
*The Two Embers* is a collaborative production by Light & Realm with thatgamecompany, and co-produced by Illusorium Studios and Orchid. This ambitious project represents a significant step in transmedia storytelling for thatgamecompany. If you haven't yet experienced the magic of *Sky*, you can check it out on the Google Play Store.
