A (Vertical) Slice of News

The October 2026 industry update highlights the launch of Vertical Slice, a new independent media outlet founded by Chris Kerr. The publication aims to provide fearless, investigative journalism that operates outside the influence of corporate ownership. Kerr argues that traditional trade media has become compromised by access-based reporting and corporate consolidation, which often prioritizes output metrics over critical inquiry. By establishing an independent platform, the outlet seeks to restore rigorous, worker-focused reporting while maintaining financial sustainability through a hybrid model of reader subscriptions and sponsorships for its knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Beyond the launch of Vertical Slice, the industry landscape is marked by significant shifts in development and market dynamics. Epic Games has pivoted to an "AI-first" development strategy for its delayed Star Wars project, mandating the use of AI tools to replace traditional hand-written code. Meanwhile, the market continues to see volatility, with physical media debates persisting as Nintendo maintains its commitment to physical releases, contrasting with broader industry trends toward digital-only models.

The broader industry environment remains characterized by high-profile challenges, including ongoing layoffs at major publishers and the emergence of security threats, such as DDoS attacks targeting major titles like Gears of War: E-Day. Despite these pressures, consumer engagement remains high, evidenced by Steam reaching a record-breaking 43.5 million concurrent users. These developments underscore a period of structural transition, where both media outlets and game developers are navigating the tensions between technological automation, corporate consolidation, and the demand for more transparent, independent industry practices.