Scripted sequence

In video games, a scripted sequence is a predefined sequence of actions that often occurs when the player has triggered it to start in game.

Some are merely used to begin playing short cut scenes in which the player has little control of. However, it is commonly used in games such as Half-Life or Call of Duty to bring in new enemies and challenges to the player in a seemingly surprising manner while they are still playing. They can also present further plot points without having the player take a break by watching a cut scene. The intended results of this style of presentation is to increase immersion and to maintain a smoothly-flowing experience that keeps the player's interest.

However, games such as Call of Duty have been particularly criticised for a reliance on these sequences, as many feel they tend to guide a player through a game by the invisible hand of the developers. Also these sequences tend to diminish replay value as the surpuise effect is lost upon further play throughs.