MACHINIMA

What Does Machinima Mean?

Machinima is a form of digital filmmaking that uses real-time computer graphics engines, usually from video games, to create movies, including new original content. The term "machinima" is a portmanteau of "machine" and "cinema" and reflects the method by which these films are produced. By utilizing the graphics and character movement capabilities of games, creators can record actions taken within a game environment and edit them to produce films or create parodies.

This filmmaking technique offers a low-cost, accessible way for individuals to produce animated films as it bypasses the need for expensive animation software or extensive animation skills. It allows creators to manipulate game environments, character movements, and camera angles to craft their narrative, often resulting in unique, community-driven stories and visuals. Over the years, Machinima has grown from a niche hobby within gaming communities to a recognized genre that has influenced various forms of media and even professional filmmaking.

Image for Machinima

When I write Machinima, I mean this:

Machinima uses real-time computer graphics engines.

Summary of Key Points

We have summarized the key points in the table below:

Machinima
Definition:	Digital Filmmaking Technique
Type:	Word
Guessability:	4: Difficult to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

An Academic Look at Machinima

image for academic look, showing a teacher with a mortar board

As it is formed by merging two words into one, machinima is a portmanteau word. It is a combination of the words machine and cinema. It can also be considered a neologism (i.e., a newly coined word or term which has emerged into everyday usage). Some neologisms are formally accepted into mainstream language (at which point, they cease to be neologisms), and some wither until they can longer be considered everyday terms. A neologism can be: