Can Slice of Life comics have a plot? Wondering about changing my genre

[sefra114]

I've recently have been told by a few people that my webcomic, Space Pack, has a feeling more akin to the Slice of Life genre than the Sci-fi it's listed under. I honestly somewhat agree, and am considering whether or not to change its genre.

But that's where my question comes in! Can Slice of Life comics have an overarching plot? For example, in my webcomic, there's an overarching plot involving aliens that will eventually lead to some moments of action, some drama, and ultimately, a conclusion. Even with that, though, the comic very light hearted, it follows the teenage cast often going through normal life in the suburbs while getting into some unusual situations along the way with some alien nonsense.

Does this sound like it could fit the genre, and could it maybe appeal more to readers of slice of life stories than sci fi? I would love to hear your thoughts, I'd really appreciate it!!

Thank you so much in advance!
Linking my comic for reference!
https://tapas.io/series/Space-Pack

[VibrantFox]

yes!

even slice of life anime have moments where more "serious" plot stuff can arise. it's part of the natural flow o a story if you think about it even if some conflicts are minor like what to have for a meal or deciding how to spend a day.

as for what the main genre is you can absolutely stick it into both slice of life and sci-fi tho it'll be up to you to decide which you feel best suits your story as the main genre or at the least where it'll perform better

[sefra114]

Thank you so much for your reply, VibrantFox! What you've said really helps me out a lot and answers my question!! With that in mind, I may go through with switching genres! Much appreciated!!

[Anemic-lemon]

I think gintama anime is the perfect example! I think they may have the exact formula you're looking for!

They have loads of episodic day to day arcs that only last one or two episodes.
--- very light hearted, it follows the teenage cast often going through normal life in the suburbs

and longer arc plots lasting maybe six?
----while getting into some unusual situations along the way with some alien nonsense.

But in the background there was also this one main plot recurring. The plot of his past that sometimes show up in the long arcs. Like when he's put in a situation to fight, he gets memories/PTSD. But only for a little bit. But enough to remind readers the point of the story.
------here's an overarching plot involving aliens that will eventually lead to some moments of action, some drama, and ultimately, a conclusion.

They also dedicate episodes solely focusing to the over arching plot.

[sefra114]

Thanks so much for the thoughtful and detailed response! Greatly appreciate it!