PS2-style AI video: the retro game look

How to make early-2000s video game cutscene style videos with AI and use them to sell.

What it is

PS2-style video imitates early-2000s game cutscenes: lower polygon characters, dramatic camera moves and dialogue boxes. It often pairs serious delivery with a funny script.

Why it works

It taps into nostalgia and it looks different from modern ads. The game framing also makes a sales message feel like a story or a joke, so people keep watching.

Best for

• Streetwear and merch
• Gaming and internet culture
• Meme-driven brands
• Products aimed at people who grew up with that era

How to make it

1. Write a one-line joke or dramatic premise.
2. Choose one game-like setting.
3. Put the product into the scene as a key item.
4. Generate the low-poly look with consistent characters.
5. Add subtitles or a dialogue box.
6. Cut it like a cutscene, with slow dramatic moments.

Starter prompt

Early-2000s video game cutscene, low-poly 3D character, slightly blurry textures, dramatic lighting, shopkeeper holding a soda can, dialogue box at the bottom.

Quick specs

Length

15–30 seconds

Ratio

9:16 or 4:3 inside a vertical frame

Pacing

Deadpan, with dramatic pauses

Audio

Retro game music and text sounds

Common mistakes

• Making it too sharp and modern
• Copying a real game's characters
• Jokes that need too much context
• Hiding the product until it's too late

FAQ