Midterm
You will create a Vertical Slice Alpha Build that integrates your team’s character, environment, and mechanics into a working scene in Unreal Engine. This project connects directly to Year 3, Semester 1 units:
- Unit 1 — Narrative Design & Game Design Document
- Unit 2 — Team Pitch & Pre-Production
- Unit 3 — Prototyping & Outlining Learning Objectives
- Unit 4 — Vertical Slice Build (Alpha)
Your Alpha build must demonstrate that the project is playable from start to finish, even if art and polish are incomplete. Focus on function and collaboration.
An Alpha build is not polished. It is your chance to prove that your vertical slice works: core mechanics, basic interactions, and a playable loop.
Steps to Completion
Step 1 — Project Setup
Create a shared Unreal Engine project.
Set up version control or agreed team workflow (naming conventions, folders).
Step 2 — Asset Integration
Import your team’s characters, props, and environment blockouts.
Place them in the level and confirm scale and alignment.
Step 3 — Core Gameplay Loop
Implement navigation, interactions, and at least one win condition.
Ensure the game can be played start to finish.
Step 4 — Internal Playtesting
Run multiple playtests within your team.
Log bugs, balance issues, and unclear interactions.
Step 5 — Alpha Build Package
Package the Unreal project and create a playable build.
Capture screenshots and record a short (30–60 sec) video walkthrough.
Step 6 — Documentation & Portfolio
Submit a Debug Report with bugs and fixes planned.
Upload build, screenshots, video, and reflection to your portfolio.
Deliverables
- Packaged Alpha build (Unreal project + executable)
- Debug/playtest report with identified issues and fixes
- Screenshots and short playthrough video
- Team production documentation (roles, tasks completed)
- Portfolio entry with reflection on challenges and progress
Timeline & Milestones
| Milestone | Week | Deliverables |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Project Setup | Unit 1 | Team folder structure, naming conventions |
| Asset Integration | Unit 2 | Characters, props, environments imported |
| Core Gameplay Loop | Unit 3 | Playable start-to-finish slice |
| Final Alpha Submission | Unit 4 | Packaged build + Debug Report + Portfolio entry |
Learning Outcomes
By completing this project, you will:
- Apply team-based workflows in Unreal Engine
- Deliver a playable Alpha build with core mechanics functioning
- Practice debugging, playtesting, and iteration
- Document and reflect on production processes
- Prepare for the Beta build + marketing package in Semester 2
Submission Format
- Folder labeled:
TeamName_VerticalSliceAlpha.zip - Subfolders:
01_Project/→ Unreal project folder02_Build/→ packaged playable build03_Renders/→ screenshots + walkthrough video04_Documents/→ debug/playtest report + portfolio PDF
Rubric (100 pts)
| Criteria | Excellent | Adequate | Weak | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Gameplay Loop | Fully functional, playable start-to-finish | Mostly functional, minor gaps | Broken/incomplete | 25 |
| Asset Integration | Character, props, and environment working together | Most assets working, some issues | Many missing or broken | 20 |
| Playtesting & Debugging | Thorough report, bugs identified, fixes planned | Report present, some gaps | Minimal/no report | 15 |
| Documentation & Portfolio | Complete with screenshots, video, reflection | Partial or missing pieces | Minimal submission | 15 |
| Team Collaboration | Roles clear, tasks documented, deadlines met | Some evidence of teamwork | Poor/no collaboration | 15 |
| Professional Practices | Organized folders, correct naming, credits shown | Minor errors | Disorganized | 10 |
Late work: −10% per week. Missing sources/references: −5 pts. Poor naming/organization: −2 pts.