Published Vertical Slice 0.1

Hello Qwhackers!

After some time, I am finally able to release the first version of the Vertical Slice!

If you are wondering what a "vertical slice" is, let me explain. In this development stage I'm focusing on defining what the game will be, which includes the core game loop, meta progression systems, visual and audio styles. By the end of Vertical Slice, I aim to have an MVP demo that isn't fully complete, but clearly shows the direction Qwhack is heading.

What's different in this version compared with the prototypes:

• First version of the duck art style. We have the same 3 ducks as the prototypes, but now with original sprites.
• First version of the original soundtrack, with a main menu and in-game variation.
• First version of the original sound effects.
• Very basic and placeholder UI.
• The store has been removed for now and replaced with a placeholder screen. It will return after a proper redesign.
• Spawning has been improved, giving me more control over balancing. As expected for a WIP game, things might not be ideally balanced yet.
• Added screen shake and damage numbers!

What’s next for the Vertical Slice?

• More ducks! I expect to have at least five duck variants for the vertical slice.
• Better feedback! This is really important for Qwhack, so I’ll be investing more time in sound and visual effects to give players satisfying whacking and damage feedback.
• The store! I still need to decide on the store’s format, but it’s an essential feature and will be back.
• Ambient sounds and effects. These will likely be minimal in the vertical slice, but should still be present.
• Improved UI. I have some ideas for the UI, which I plan to test during the Vertical Slice phase.

Sometimes I develop the game live on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/codingree

Thank you very much for reading!

Happy Qwhacking!