A good story can help a game, depends on type of game though. I don't think u need a great story in an action or beat 'em up game but a good story definately helps for RPGs.
As for cut scenes, it depends. Cut scenes are great in a game like skies of arcadia where it complements the story. But in games like final fantasy, where cut scenes take precedence over game play, making it feel very linear like ur watching a movie, i can't stand it.








