Unlike traditional animation techniques that use specialized 3D animation software machinimaa term derived from the words machine and cinemarecords the action in realtime interactive 3D environments such as those found in video games to create a cinematic production. No longer solely the province of hardcore gamers machinima has become central to the convergence between animation television and film but retains its own identity as a unique media format. It has evolved quickly within massive multiplayer gaming and virtual platforms such as Second Life The Sims World of Warcraft and virtual worlds under development. These interviews essays and discussions with leading machinima producers reviewers performers and advocates discuss scripting basics character development and set design as well as tips on crafting machinima through creative use of sound lighting and postproduction.