They didn't just try to execute you, but they noticed you weren't on the list to be executed and you were put in the block by mistake... and then decided to try to execute you anyways, and the only reason you're alive is that there was a convenient dragon interruption.
That's the kind of writing you do when you WANT someone to side with the rebels... And I remember that just about everyone I knew sided with the Stormcloaks for that very reason.
Now, the reason they did that was clearly because, at the time, there was that weird trend in games in which there's an intro with a pseudo-cutscene in which you can move the camera but not much else, and you were in the back of a vehicle, often on the way to die or be knocked unconscious.
At least in Far Cry 2 (underrated, problematic, and sometimes a chore to play) you're immobilized because you have malaria, which actually affects the game in the beginning when you're looking for anti-malarial pills.
I never got that you are about to be executed by the Empire but then you immediately get a choice between the Imperials and the Stormcloaks.
Like why would you ever choose the people who were about to execute you?
They didn't just try to execute you, but they noticed you weren't on the list to be executed and you were put in the block by mistake... and then decided to try to execute you anyways, and the only reason you're alive is that there was a convenient dragon interruption.
That's the kind of writing you do when you WANT someone to side with the rebels... And I remember that just about everyone I knew sided with the Stormcloaks for that very reason.
Now, the reason they did that was clearly because, at the time, there was that weird trend in games in which there's an intro with a pseudo-cutscene in which you can move the camera but not much else, and you were in the back of a vehicle, often on the way to die or be knocked unconscious.
Far Cry never stopped doing that and it's very tiresome.
"Oh look you're knocked out unavoidably again! Time for another pretentious insane genius speech!"
At least in Far Cry 2 (underrated, problematic, and sometimes a chore to play) you're immobilized because you have malaria, which actually affects the game in the beginning when you're looking for anti-malarial pills.
That part actually makes some sense for people super new to games to get used to the camera controls.
I sided with the Imperials...but then I'd read the Nu Mantia Intercepts and knew the Thalmor had the Empire over a barrel and were the real threat.
Also, The Prisoner is one of the God-Archetypes of The Elder Scrolls and has to start the game in chains.
I'm excited for the day when Bethesda writers realize chains can be metaphorical.
Kirkbride is way ahead of you