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Sunday 29th April 2001

Lthsp5: "Exodus"
(Size: 590 k. Alternative downloads: Lthsp5)
Speedrun demo: 0:12


Note 1: This map follows on from Lthsp4 (review) - you should install it in the same directory, and play Lthsp4 first.
Note 2: This map features coloured lighting if you use the TomazQuake custom engine.

A small level that sees LTH exploring another new style. This time it's a mixture of simple blue walls, plenty of metal trim, and a dark tiled floor - this theme is used very consistently and could get repetitive quickly, but there are enough designs to keep it attractive. Specifically, the map has plenty of curves - including curved tops of walls, metal beam arches, and even "barrel-like" curves that rise from the floor. Different curve designs are used in each area, except for a few very simple corridors, and although many areas would be boxy except for the curves, they do form some nice architecture. Lighting and build quality are good. One curious flaw is the totally black sky (as in void/space maps), which may be an experiment but feels odd and spoils the atmosphere. A decent map with a lot of stylistic potential which isn't explored fully - more textural variation, detailing, and better designs in the simpler areas would have helped.

Due to the map's simplicity there isn't any exploration, but there's one tantalisingly obvious secret that is much easier to see then reach - the item is more useful at the end than you might think. Gameplay is good and well balanced, with plentiful monsters and a few distinctive features. You must play Lthsp4 as noted above to get the required weapons. Medieval monsters are packed in and used in small gangs, with occasional tougher monsters too. Mostly it's straightforward combat, with a few typical, though fun, surprises. However, Deathknight "snipers" on the upper levels are a challenge - it's a rain of hellfire in some areas. Ammo and health are in adequate supply, but there's little to spare, so it's a tricky choice how to take on those Deathknights. And later on there's some good surprises - the final climax being a bit of a dangerous heartstopper. Skill settings are well used too.

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