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Tronyn reviews: Moldy Tower by Necros

 

Necros has really hit his stride – he’s currently in the middle of one of the most impressive strings of Q1SP map releases ever. This map, a vertically-focused map kind of like recent releases by Neg!ke and Than, is a good example of this as well of the new vertical layout focus. The layout is kind of like the aforementioned Neg!ke map, an intricate up-down/side to side progression including ramps, ladders and elevators. It almost feels like a 3d version of some old arcade game. The theme is initially green/moldy stone with lots of metal detailing, and later moves to less moldy brown stone. Lighting is appropriate throughout.

 

A few custom textures add to the visuals, but mostly visual interest is created by the detailed, varied architecture – lots of little brushes here and there adding to the style. Necros clearly gained experience doing this kind of style (less textures, high brush detail) back with r_speeds be damned! and it shows here.

 

The centrepiece of the map is the coolest elevator in Quake, and Qouth touches/moving parts/etc are well used throughout. The cramped quarters are occupied by low/mid level quoth enemies, providing a challenge but nothing overwhelming (this is good). It was nice to see Centroid Scorpions make an appearance. After the more cerebral exploration style of the map, it was cool and amusing to have a more traditional fire-and-brimstone ending full of slime, explosions and gibs. All in all a great map.

Score: 17.5/20

29.08.2009 in Tronyn Reviews | 7 Comments »

7 Responses to “Tronyn reviews: Moldy Tower by Necros”

  1. Spirit Says:
    29.08.2009 18:38

    Sorry for the delay and not approving some comments (wordpress classified as spam) earlier, I kinda have a life at the moment. ;)

  2. negke Says:
    30.08.2009 19:02

    “3d version of some old arcade game”
    An interesting comparison. Possibly a theme worth expanding.

  3. Spirit Says:
    31.08.2009 13:11

    Yes!
    I had a huge creativity flash about how great Mario/Wario enemy designs could work in an FPS. It could be a whole new genre.

  4. Willem Says:
    20.09.2009 14:33

    Are there any more Tronyn Reviews coming? I love these things…

  5. Spirit Says:
    21.09.2009 18:14

    Once there are new maps, I am sure there will be more reviews. ;)

  6. Trinca Says:
    25.09.2009 10:09

    Necros = pure class = best mapper ever = best imagination ever = inspiracion to everyone!

    Never quit mapping, you born for it!

  7. Tronyn Says:
    03.10.2009 02:30

    Given that we’re all involved in (at the least observing) a really specialized/obscure art form, I have to say from this perspective that it’s hard not to agree. It’s hard to think of an author who’s been hitting “Quakeiness” (that vague term which we all have a similar idea of) more than you Necros. Certain maps by Kell and Vondur’s Castle Koohoo might compete (I myself am generally not going for a Quakey theme, more of a Hexeny theme). What I really find interesting is how your earlier stuff was more blatant/doom1 style evil (which is damned awesome for sure), but how you seem to have evolved to a more desolate, lonely, creepy vision of darkness.

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