workshop guide · trailers
How we make trailers
One formula, three stages, seventeen steps — all laid out on this table.
three stages · 17 steps
Watch the episode or read the guide
Polden Workshop is the trailer studio of the indie games publisher Polden Publishing. The video walks the whole path in one evening. The text has the same 17-step route, written out as 22 steps with examples and checklists to keep at hand.
Read the guideor watch the episode
editor levels
Four levels — like in a game
Level 1
Gather everything the game has: footage, hooks, references. Know the material by heart.
Level 2
Build the story: logic, structure, drama. The trailer starts saying something.
Level 3
Rhythm, editing, sound, titles. The story gets a shape you want to rewatch.
Level 4
Break the formula on purpose. Try what the guide lacks — and bring it back.