Presenting Your Game Like a Pro

Pitching your game to a publisher is a crucial moment. Beyond having a great concept, the way you present your pitch deck can make or break first impressions. Strong visual storytelling, clear structure, and engaging delivery are key.

Public speaking may not be every developer’s forte, but a well-designed presentation can amplify your message and keep the audience focused. Below are the essential do’s and don’ts to make sure your pitch deck leaves an impact — and doesn't get lost in a sea of other pitches.

Pitch Deck Do's

Plan Your Structure Thoughtfully

Publishers receive countless pitches, so yours must get to the point fast. Start with a clear overview:

• Who you are

• What your game is (core concept, genre, hook)

• Why this game matters (market fit, player appeal)

• What you're asking for (publishing deal, funding, etc.)

Then expand on key details like visuals, game mechanics, development timeline, and target platforms.

Apply visual design Principles

Follow layout rules like the Rule of Thirds to keep slides balanced and clean. A cluttered slide full of stats or walls of text will only overwhelm. Instead, use minimalist layouts that guide the viewer’s eye to what matters.

Embrace negative Space

White space is your friend. It helps publishers process key information quickly. Don't cram every inch of the slide — a few bold words, one strong image, and breathing room is often all you need.

Use High-Impact Visuals (no lazy stock assets)

Pitch decks for games should be visually immersive. Include in-game screenshots, concept art, key visuals, or moodboards that reflect the game’s atmosphere. Avoid generic stock photos unless they genuinely add value.

Mind your Fonts & Colors

Choose legible, on-brand fonts. Avoid quirky or difficult-to-read styles. Stick to high-contrast color schemes that ensure clarity, even when presenting on low-quality projectors or screens.

Tell a Story

Games are about experiences. Use storytelling to make publishers feel the game’s unique journey. Whether it’s the narrative arc of your RPG or the emotional tension of your puzzle game, frame your pitch as a story.

Engage the Room

If you’re pitching live, keep the room engaged by asking questions, showing quick live demos or prompting reactions. Your body language, eye contact and energy will be just as important as your slides.

End with a Strong CTA

Wrap up with a clear call to action: “We’re looking for a publishing partner to help us bring this to consoles by Q4 2025.” Leave them with a memorable statement that summarizes your game’s opportunity.

Pitch Deck Don'ts

Don’t cverload with Text

Slides are for highlights, not essays. Speak the details — let your slides be visual cues, not scripts.

Don’t read your slides Word-for-Word

You’re there to add context, passion, and insight beyond what’s written. If your deck speaks for itself, why are you in the room?

Don’t rush or Drag your Speech

Practice your pitch pacing. Speak clearly, at a conversational speed. Rehearse enough to sound natural, not robotic.

Don’t overdo Charts and Graphs

Data is important, but too many slides filled with analytics will bore your audience. Select only the most impactful numbers — like your Steam wishlist count or community growth metrics.

Don’t use Hard-to-Read fonts or Low-Contrast colors

Publishers won’t struggle to decipher your slides. Make sure your text is big, bold, and easy to read — even from the back of a meeting room.

Don’t overuse Animations and Effects

Simple transitions are fine, but avoid flashy effects that slow you down or distract. Your pitch should feel professional, not gimmicky.

Don’t ise Irrelevant, Low-Resolution Images

Low-quality visuals will cheapen your presentation. Only use high-res assets that reflect the visual quality of your game.

Your Pitch Deck is Your First Playable

Remember, your pitch deck is the first "gameplay experience" publishers will have with your project. It's your job to make that experience seamless, memorable, and compelling.

If building a powerful, on-brand pitch deck feels like a lot on top of developing the game itself — that's where Playbase comes in. We craft custom pitch decks designed for the gaming industry, helping developers present their vision with clarity and impact.