http://buttonmasher.co.nz/2008/07/27/story-telling-in-mirrors-edge-will-be-2d/

Three weeks ago EA released some new screenshots and a 2D trailer, for the most part I thought it was an interesting diversion from the normal in-game trailer, it turns out there is something more to it.

I had the chance to talk to one of the producers during the hands on time and while the full interview will be in one of the upcoming ButtonMasher Podcasts this info deserves to be shared before that.

We were talking about how the game flows and what people can expect when they play through the game for the first time.

There is a linear story. The storytelling is done through a unique 2D animation style, we wanted there to be a real contrast between the storytelling and the videogame so that you really take notice of the story, because we feel that the story is a very important part of the game.

If you missed the trailer when it was released here it is now.

I am willing to forgive all types of flaws to play this beautiful game but is animated story telling even a flaw? It does seem a shame to have such beautiful visuals in a game and then break away into a completely different style. What does everyone think about this?

It's a different take on it, that's for sure.

I think the idea is good. By having a stark contrast, you get people to notice another element that may otherwise be forgotten. The challenge is, however, to make sure that the 2D part fits the style of the game and looks appealing. I know they at least have the latter right.

EDIT:ummm, maybe not so mucht he former. The characters moves akwardly.

I think it's a cool idea. Like those stylish unlockable cartoons in Heavenly Sword. Folklore was done sort of like this but with moving storyboards instead of full-on cartoons. It'll be nice if they can pull off the dual styles in the same game.

That's actually a shame, for the 2D animation (if it's the same as the trailer shown) feels quite awkward. I'm all for innovative art design, but it just doesn't feel right to me, especially if the game wants to be taken seriously and from what I heard it actually is about a quite serious topic. In my opinion the atmosphere/epicness of the game could be damaged by the cartoon style cutscenes :/, but let's see what it's like in the final product.

I don't care for the cartoon style cutscenes, though I never really cared for the story in the first place.

I'm getting this game for the 1st person parkour.

MGS4 uses the games engine to tell it's story yet it's considered to be one of the main points of the game. Still, I'm glad that an American developer is taking a risk with the storytelling

2D? I didn't see any 2D in that trailer. I did see a cartoonish style of animation though.

To be honest, I was totally with the style until the main girl came up behind those cops and started fighting. Didn't seem impressive...the punches looked weak.

It just reminds me of the esurance commercials. Which I hate.

It will make for a nice contrast between the story and running around...I just hope the game is almost always running around...

Ah.....Id much rather have had 3D cutscenes. If the 2D doesnt amaze us then I think it will be a fail in there part.
But Im already sold on the gameplay so Im still buying.

Though 3-D cutscenes would be much prefered, i'm sure it won't take away too much from the game. As long as they aren't really low-quality.