GDC 2025 Session Viewer

Standing out in an increasingly crowded game market is one of the biggest challenges facing developers today; securing a publishing deal can be the key to a game's success.

Join Aaron Ludlow, Product Director at Playstack, publishers of hit indie games Balatro and Abiotic Factor, for an insight-packed session on creating the perfect vertical slice, which are becoming more important than ever to grab the attention of potential publishers!.

Drawing from years of experience evaluating hundreds of vertical slices as well as planning and managing his own, Aaron will guide you through the essentials of planning, designing, and presenting a vertical slice that stands out. Learn about common pitfalls to avoid, how to choose the best content to highlight, and techniques to ensure your slice is polished and compelling.

Takeaway

Practical guide to planning and designing an impactful vertical slice
Analyzing your key game pillars to ensure that you are working on the right features
Key features and polish elements that make a vertical slice stand out
Common mistakes to avoid in vertical slice creation
Effective presentation techniques for pitching to publishers

Intended Audience

This session is designed for game developers, game designers, and studio leads looking to secure publishing agreements. It is especially valuable for those seeking to improve their game presentation skills and create a compelling vertical slice that attracts publisher interest.