The graphics were realistic but in keeping with a fantasy story, live actors were not used to portray the characters nor were real settings used for the places. The scenery and look of the characters depicted seemed completely in keeping with the imagery of the Death Gate novels. Every scene is beautiful, created by award-winning fantasy artists and was consistently high quality through out. There is very little animation. Some of the characters when talking make some minor lip movements or other small expressions and body movements.
Cut scenes are full screen, fully animated with appropriate sound effects.
Initially, the cut scenes are dramatic and impressive. However, there really are very few of these and most are seen repeatedly as Haplo travels from realm to realm and within realms. There is music throughout the game. Usually, each different scene has a different associated piece of music. Each piece of music is in keeping with the scene it plays with.