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Percept: "Perception"
(Size: 475 k. Alternative downloads: Percept.)


A medium sized map with a strong, consistent, "temple" theme of sandstone block walls lined with hieroglypic trim, rocky outdoor sections, and a glowing pinkish sky. The map consists of a mixture of indoor halls and collonades, connected by twisting, fairly natural canyons with some flooded sections. This gives a nice variety, balancing out the ubiquitous texture theme. Architecture is all good, if sometimes simple, due to a solid use of angles - corners, torch holders, archways, pillars, ceilings and alcoves are all well angled, giving a great style. Bulky pillars are common, and a fairly spectacular building jutting out into a flooded cavern is the visual highlight. Elsewhere some more complex designs, structures or details could have improved the look. Lighting is good, fitting the sunny setting, apart from unnaturally dark cliff-tops. Otherwise, the build quality is clean and neat throughout.

The layout is generally straightforward, with no exploration, but the route through the map winds around with some backtracking - this is well covered by reinforcements. There is also a single secret. Gameplay is challenging, with varied and sometimes exciting combat situations, and sparse items. Medieval monsters are used, mostly on medium class. Some combats can be simple with a bit of thought, sometimes there's space to run away and fight at your leisure, and sometimes you face more energetic ambushes, requiring good movement skills. Combats escalate well towards the ending, with a couple of good, tougher climaxes. The map design is fairly spacious, which balances out some of the more vicious attacks. However, supplies, on Hard skill at least, are distinctly sparse, and care must be taken to avoid running out of ammo or health - monster infighting can help. If that's too much of a problem, skill settings are effective.

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