Slash Shape Fundamentals

1) Characterized by a single, well-rounded curve with minimal irregularities
2) Shape resembles a flag- Trailing ends are narrower than the leading tip
3) Shape is Motion-Curvature follows the swinging motion of the 'actor'

1) Single, well-rounded curve...

Slashes tend to be curved like crescent moons.

...with minimal irregularities

Stray pixels ruin the fluid motion of a slash animation.

2) Shape resembles a flag...

Examples of flag shapes are torches, windsocks, and kites.

.... Trailing ends are narrower than the leading head.

A narrow end implies the passage of time and speed.

3) Shape is motion...

The shapes you see here are the climax of a slash animation. This means it only exists for 1-2 frames.

...Curvature follows the swinging motion of the 'actor'

The sword swing done by the character. So the Slash effect is a result of that swinging motion.

Character References

Vernal Edge
Sunnyside World Asset Pack
GhostVanguard