What’s vertical slice? A quick guide

Introduction

A vertical slice is a small section of a video game that is designed to showcase its key features and mechanics. It is often used by game developers to pitch a game to publishers or investors, and it can also be used to demonstrate the game to the public before its release. In this article, we will explore what a vertical slice is, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make one, and examine the pros and cons of creating a vertical slice.

What is a Vertical Slice?

A vertical slice is a fully functional section of a game that is designed to represent the final product. It is often a condensed version of the game that showcases its key features and mechanics. The goal of a vertical slice is to give investors, publishers, or the public a taste of what the final game will be like.

A vertical slice typically includes the following elements:

1. Gameplay Mechanics: The vertical slice should showcase the game’s core mechanics and how they work together. This includes combat, movement, and interaction with the game world.
2. Art and Sound: The vertical slice should include polished art assets and sound design. This is important as it helps to create a sense of immersion and can help to sell the game’s overall aesthetic.
3. User Interface: The vertical slice should have a user interface that is easy to use and visually appealing. This is important as it can help players navigate the game and understand its mechanics.
4. Level Design: The vertical slice should showcase a well-designed level that is representative of the final game. This includes environmental design, enemy placement, and other key level elements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Vertical Slice

Making a vertical slice involves a series of steps that must be carefully planned and executed. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create a vertical slice:

1. Define the Key Features: The first step in creating a vertical slice is to define the game’s key features. This includes combat, movement, level design, and any other important elements.
2. Create a Storyboard: Once the key features have been defined, create a storyboard that outlines the key elements of the vertical slice. This should include the setting, characters, and any other important elements.
3. Develop the Gameplay Mechanics: The next step is to develop the gameplay mechanics. This includes combat, movement, and interaction with the game world. These mechanics should be polished and representative of the final game.
4. Design the Art and Sound: Once the gameplay mechanics are in place, it’s time to design the art and sound. This includes creating polished art assets and sound design that are representative of the final game.
5. Develop the User Interface: The user interface should be easy to use and visually appealing. This includes designing menus, HUD elements, and other important UI elements.
6. Create the Level Design: The level design should be well-designed and representative of the final game. This includes environmental design, enemy placement, and other key level elements.
7. Test and Refine: Once the vertical slice is complete, it’s important to test and refine it. This includes identifying any bugs or issues and making necessary changes to improve the overall experience.

Pros and Cons of Creating a Vertical Slice

Creating a vertical slice has several advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of creating a vertical slice:

Pros:

1. Showcases the Game: A vertical slice allows developers to showcase the game’s key features and mechanics to investors, publishers, or the public.
2. Helps with Funding: A well-made vertical slice can help secure funding for the game’s development.
3. Early Feedback: A vertical slice can provide valuable feedback from players and help developers identify any issues or problems before the final game is released.
4. Testing Mechanics: A vertical slice allows developers to test the game’s mechanics in a controlled environment and make necessary changes before the final game is released.
5. Builds Hype: A well-made vertical slice can help build hype for the game and generate interest from potential players.

Cons:

1. Time and Resources: Creating a vertical slice requires a significant amount of time and resources, which can be a strain on development teams.
2. Expectations: A well-made vertical slice can set high expectations for the final game, which can be difficult to meet.
3. Limited Content: A vertical slice is typically a small section of the game, which means that it may not fully represent the final product.
4. Scope Creep: Creating a vertical slice can lead to scope creep, where developers add more features and content to the game than originally planned.
5. Changing Direction: A well-made vertical slice can lock developers into a specific direction for the game, which can be difficult to change if necessary.

Effect on the Future Final Game

Creating a vertical slice can have a significant impact on the final game. A well-made vertical slice can help developers identify any issues or problems early on and make necessary changes to improve the overall experience. It can also help secure funding for the game’s development and generate interest from potential players.

However, creating a vertical slice can also set high expectations for the final game, which can be difficult to meet. It can also lead to scope creep, where developers add more features and content to the game than originally planned, which can delay the game’s release and increase development costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a vertical slice is a condensed section of a video game that is designed to showcase its key features and mechanics. It can be used to secure funding, generate interest, and provide valuable feedback from players. However, creating a vertical slice requires a significant amount of time and resources, and it can set high expectations for the final game. Developers must carefully plan and execute the creation of a vertical slice to ensure that it accurately represents the final product and meets the expectations of players and investors.

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