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Mars Attacks II: Dropship Down

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Mars Attacks II: Dropship DownGruntosUK
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5033After the attack on the frigate HMS Lucifer, the Marines are on Mars and ready for battle. Sergeant Casper, separated from the platoon will have to undertake his own mission, rescue the crew of the downed dropship and its important cargo.
all
The level is finally ready, after plenty of distractions and 6 weeks, I have finally finished it. I've gone back to the Siberia style for this level, platforming, puzzles and plenty of criss-crossing paths, this one actually gave me a headache trying to work it all out and link it up. The level is literally at bursting point, I never thought I'd fit in as much as I did. I've started on the third level, but no idea when it will be ready.

Here are some pics

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5033 http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5038

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5037 http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5036

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5035 http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=540&pictureid=5034

Have fun, I'll do any F4F left.

EDIT: I'm rather confident no one will find all secrets, so I've set up a competition here. (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=p=243459#post243459) The person who posts a picture of them with all 8 secrets found will win 500XP

2009-07-21 13:17:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Nice one! I'll have a look at this tonight. Looking forward to it

2009-07-21 13:19:00

Author:
wexfordian

Posts: 1904

Got a sneaky earlier play, and I also played through this finished version. I'm impressed Gruntos. I liked the first one - but thought it was short and sometimes lacking gameplay. This one was far better IMHO. Loved it - 5 stars and a heart

The dog tags were way too tricky for me to find as well - even having played it through with you once.
Oh and that Ccubagge reference was priceless. I almost died laughing at it.

2009-07-21 13:21:00

Author:
Coxy224

Posts: 2645

First off I want to say this is a great level!

The introduction was extremely well done, everything looked very nice during it. The scenery was great throughout the entire level. The boss was pretty cool and original. I also really enjoyed all the platforming and puzzles (I really liked that sticker puzzle

) because it was all so unique and fresh. I think the best part though is just how you transitioned each section, everything felt so cohesive, I don't even know how you did it so well. The story also served its purpose as well, it wasn't overwhelming, but it did make you want to get through the level. There were parts in the level where I got a little confused, but I was never really "stuck" at any certain point

Overall I gave this level:star::star::star::star::star:, tagged it "complex", and hearted it.

I would love if you could F4F my level The Unfair Platformer 2

Thanks!

2009-07-21 14:03:00

Author:
Dr_Vab

Posts: 134

I have to say that I'm a huge fan of the first Mars Attacks level, but this absolutely blows it away!

Gruntos, you are the master of back-tracking and complex level design with intercrossing pathways, but even knowing going in, I found myself amazed again and again at how brilliantly you pulled it off.

As usual, your visual design is second to none, and the atmosphere you created in this level was simply amongst the best I've ever seen in the game. I'm also a huge sucker for opening cinematics, and yours was definitely up there in the pantheon of all-time greats.

However all this incredibly intricate level design comes at a cost, and I have to say that it wasn't until my second play-through that I could complete the level. You did a good job of explaining what all the levers were doing that I had to pull, but there were several points where I was left wandering without a clue. I also managed to fall down before releasing the second brake for the lift which bridged the two platforms and allowed the "fuel" to be carried across, which left me having to restart to finish (as the swings had fallen and it was impossible to retrace my steps).

All that aside, this is one of the most complex and thoroughly engrossing levels I've ever played, and its replayability is through the roof. It goes without saying that I gave it :star::star::star::star::star: and a heart, you really have outdone yourself and I am counting down the days until I can play the next installment.

2009-07-21 14:14:00

Author:
CheesyMcFly

Posts: 211

Thanks for the plays and comments everyone.

However all this incredibly intricate level design comes at a cost, and I have to say that it wasn't until my second play-through that I could complete the level. You did a good job of explaining what all the levers were doing that I had to pull, but there were several points where I was left wandering without a clue. I also managed to fall down before releasing the second brake for the lift which bridged the two platforms and allowed the "fuel" to be carried across, which left me having to restart to finish (as the swings had fallen and it was impossible to retrace my steps).

I've fixed this and republished, its now impossible to leave that section without first hitting the switch.

I'll play the F4F now.

2009-07-21 14:42:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

First off, the level had a stunning and eye-catching introduction, very well put together and very well executed. This almost reminded me of Starcruiser in it's level of detail. The flickering lights, stickers, decorations, sounds, and everything else were all meticulously placed and worked perfectly into the level. There was a speech bubble at the beginning that said "I'd better unlock this lift..." and there was a lowercase "i". This is incredibly nitpicky on my part, but I figured it was unintentional, so I thought it would be good to mention it. I did get stuck in the ceiling above the monster, forcing me to kill myself. There was a great use of all three layers, and all of the platforming and grabbing along a ceiling was done well. I liked how there were different paths (or at least the illusion of it), but I felt like when I advanced through something, it was by luck that I had found it. There wasn't really a clear direction to go in the level. There were a bunch of side objectives, but I never really knew what to do or where to go. I'm not sure if you meant the level to work like that, and it isn't really a mark against it, I just felt lost in such a large world. I had flipped a bunch of switches and I didn't know what they did, and random lights were turning on, it just felt odd. I did like how the level seemed to lap back on itself, how you would be in the same section but on a newly opened path and going in the other direction. The level seemed to pull itself together here, though I still really wasn't sure what was going on. For example, at one point I flipped a switch and then I was attacked by aliens that I fought with the paintinator. It was all very strange to me. I did like the basic puzzles, like the sticker one and moving the three platforms around. The mineshaft part was very cool, though you could see the creature brain on top of it. Considering the artistic ability you've shown off in this level, I'm sure you can think of some way of hiding it.

Overall, I liked the length and detail of it, it was way longer and so much more detailed than most. It gave off a great feel to it and I got #2 on the highscore board for the time being. I obviously gave it :star::star::star::star::star: and a heart.

For F4F, please check out my LittleBigMemory level: https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=13198

2009-07-21 14:46:00

Author:
BSprague

Posts: 2325

It's out!!!! I'm going to go home over lunch and play the final version.... you KNOW I'm excited if I spend my lunch driving home to play your level - I've only done that a few times, including Manufacturered Madness.

2009-07-21 14:46:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

@BSprague

First off, the level had a stunning and eye-catching introduction, very well put together and very well executed. This almost reminded me of Starcruiser in it's level of detail. The flickering lights, stickers, decorations, sounds, and everything else were all meticulously placed and worked perfectly into the level.

Thanks, I appreciate it

There was a speech bubble at the beginning that said "I'd better unlock this lift..." and there was a lowercase "i". This is incredibly nitpicky on my part, but I figured it was unintentional, so I thought it would be good to mention it.

I'll take a look at that now.

I did get stuck in the ceiling above the monster, forcing me to kill myself. There was a great use of all three layers, and all of the platforming and grabbing along a ceiling was done well. I liked how there were different paths (or at least the illusion of it), but I felt like when I advanced through something, it was by luck that I had found it. There wasn't really a clear direction to go in the level. There were a bunch of side objectives, but I never really knew what to do or where to go. I'm not sure if you meant the level to work like that, and it isn't really a mark against it, I just felt lost in such a large world. I had flipped a bunch of switches and I didn't know what they did, and random lights were turning on, it just felt odd. I did like how the level seemed to lap back on itself, how you would be in the same section but on a newly opened path and going in the other direction. The level seemed to pull itself together here, though I still really wasn't sure what was going on. For example, at one point I flipped a switch and then I was attacked by aliens that I fought with the paintinator. It was all very strange to me. I did like the basic puzzles, like the sticker one and moving the three platforms around.

All my levels are built this way. I had'nt intended to continue with this series in that way but it seemed after the first its what most people wanted.

Overall, I liked the length and detail of it, it was way longer and so much more detailed than most. It gave off a great feel to it and I got #2 on the highscore board for the time being. I obviously gave it and a heart.

Thank you very much kind sir

The actual level, after the lift into the mine and the intro, is crammed into exactly half a bar of thermo.

@Ccubbage

It's out!!!! I'm going to go home over lunch and play the final version.... you KNOW I'm excited if I spend my lunch driving home to play your level - I've only done that a few times, including Manufacturered Madness.

It certainly is, its been published for about an hour. Thanks for spending your lunch break driving. I hope its worth it lol!

2009-07-21 15:06:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

It certainly is, its been published for about an hour. Thanks for spending your lunch break driving. I hope its worth it lol!

Well I guess I'm not the one doing all the driving in my lunch break, but I still say that it is DEFINITELY worth it.

2009-07-21 15:47:00

Author:
CheesyMcFly

Posts: 211

2009-07-21 18:16:00

Author:
Unknown User

Looks absolutely great like all your previous work.

However, I have now played this several times but cannot figure out the sticker puzzle. I'd be very eager to play the rest of the stage and would really appreciate any hint / assistance.

Just put the stickers on in the correct places. The solution is in the previous room you run through. Just copy that and the way will open.

2009-07-21 18:19:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

That's what I've tried to do but I don't have any sticker with black / yellow stripes.

2009-07-21 18:27:00

Author:
Unknown User

Ok, I just got back from lunch. Played it. Here are my thoughts:

PROS:

+ I'M A GENERAL!!!!!! This is more exciting than when they put me as a colonel in Half Life 2!
+ Fantastic presentation, and quite possibly the BEST intro section in any level I've ever seen.
+ The progression through the level is fantastic. You are definately the master of "I'm not sure if I'm lost or not, but somehow I end up going in the right direction" gameplay.
+ The boss - fantastic design for climbing to the top of the boss, and clever mini-puzzle for finishing the boss in the right order.
+ Placement of the last dog tag - brilliant!

CONS:

- None that come to mind.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHT:

Ok, as I was playing this an idea came to mind - unlike the Siberia series, this level has a TON of little graphical details - which look great. However, it may add a bit more confusion to the player as to whether they are progressing or lost (even though WE know they can't really get lost) since the detail can give you a bit of sensory overload.

So, maybe on the next parts of the series think about planning the different sections to use a slightly different material/sticker/ light combination from each other so the player can tell when they've entered a new section. This could be enough to make them feel like they're progressing.

5 stars and hearted... and I noticed I hadn't hearted you as a creator so I popped that on too (that one was long overdue).

Great job!

2009-07-21 18:45:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

Ok first of great level, lovin the design, but before i post a full review could u please guide me on what to do after you get the cube with the hazard sticker on it, because i really want to get to the end

2009-07-21 18:52:00

Author:
springs86

Posts: 785

Isn't this the cube you bring to the left to get up on the platform to the left and ultimately push into the power thingamajig?

2009-07-21 18:59:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

+ I'M A GENERAL!!!!!! This is more exciting than when they put me as a colonel in Half Life 2!

I was struggling to think of a general's name when you posted in the project thread, its seemed perfect

+ Fantastic presentation, and quite possibly the BEST intro section in any level I've ever seen.
+ The progression through the level is fantastic. You are definately the master of "I'm not sure if I'm lost or not, but somehow I end up going in the right direction" gameplay.
+ The boss - fantastic design for climbing to the top of the boss, and clever mini-puzzle for finishing the boss in the right order.
+ Placement of the last dog tag - brilliant!

Thanks Cub, pleased you did'nt waste your dinnertime

ADDITIONAL THOUGHT:

Ok, as I was playing this an idea came to mind - unlike the Siberia series, this level has a TON of little graphical details - which look great. However, it may add a bit more confusion to the player as to whether they are progressing or lost (even though WE know they can't really get lost) since the detail can give you a bit of sensory overload.

So, maybe on the next parts of the series think about planning the different sections to use a slightly different material/sticker/ light combination from each other so the player can tell when they've entered a new section. This could be enough to make them feel like they're progressing.

Thats a good idea, I'll use that. It might also cut down on the repetition of stickers and decorations in the level.

5 stars and hearted... and I noticed I hadn't hearted you as a creator so I popped that on too (that one was long overdue).

Great job!

Great feedback, thanks again!!

Isn't this the cube you bring to the left to get up on the platform to the left and ultimately push into the power thingamajig?

Yup, thats the thingymajig.

I am wondering about the sticker problem posted previously, I made sure I used ones from the main game, because Coxy did'nt own some of the ones I previously used. Does this mean that people that hav'nt collected it in the main game won't be able to pass??

2009-07-21 19:08:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Does this mean that people that hav'nt collected it in the main game won't be able to pass??

Yes, it does.

Anyways, I played the level this morning. As usual, it was fantastic. The introduction was very well done, indeed. I suppose the cool thing is give a rundown of pros and cons:

++Great level design, as usual
+Some unique puzzles
+Great detail throughout.
+Backtracking worked fantastically
+Introduction was nicely done
+Great little scripted moment at the end
+General Cubbage! Ha ha.
+Nice little story to accompany the well made level.

+/- I only found 2 dog-tags

-I was confused at first on how to beat the mini-boss. I know there were speech bubbles telling me kill it, but I wasn't sure how to get to its head.
-The gas on the mini-boss seemed a bit high on the far left of its body. I would jump from the ledge, touch its body, and die... it was semi-frustrating
-I didn't have a problem with it, but some people may not be able to continue if they don't have all of the stickers used in the sticker puzzle
-A few typos in early speech bubbles
-I am familiar with your level style, but others may be confused where to go on account of the insane detail throughout.

Needless to say, you received :star::star::star::star::star: and heart from me. I would give you a creator heart, but I did that a while ago

. You deserve that crown!

Here's looking forward to whatever you come up with next!

2009-07-21 20:07:00

Author:
comphermc

Posts: 5338

Could they not move the stickers from one room to the other using the sticker editing tool? <ight be a bit of a faff mind you.

2009-07-21 20:33:00

Author:
Matt 82

Posts: 1096

Could they not move the stickers from one room to the other using the sticker editing tool? <ight be a bit of a faff mind you.

Ha ha, nice. Yes they could, assuming they figure that much out. Might have to stick it to sackboy, though, as they are spread quite a bit apart. And if you accidentally deleted it, you are screwed.

2009-07-21 20:43:00

Author:
comphermc

Posts: 5338

I have already tried the editing tool but it did not allow me to paste the sticker anywhere

I have about 95 % of the main game stickers. This hazard sticker must be one of those that require four players to obtain.

2009-07-21 21:03:00

Author:
Unknown User

I played (part) of this level with Rustbukkit. I played part of it twice, because each time we couldn't complete it.

Now, this isn't really your fault because we did some stupid things, but I figure I should let you know what happened that prevented us from completing it, as their probably reasonably easy fixes, and it'll make your level that much more perfect

The first time, we got to where the martian guy comes down from the air to attack you. When you go into the area where he's waiting, a bunch of fire boulders fall behind you so you can't go back. However, Rustbukkit was still behind there. I died, and he accidentally activated the checkpoint behind the flaming wall, so we both ended up coming out there. We couldn't get back to the alien guy and therefore couldn't progress.

The second time was even before this, after we defeated the first big enemy who has the two grab switches on him. We defeated him and continued on, up to the elevator that you're supposed to go up. I got on the elevator, pulled the lever, and accidentally walked off

- I guess I was close enough to the ground so it just went off it when I moved against the elevator wall.
So yeah, the elevator went up without us. Maybe just make a bit of an enclosing on the sides of the elevator so you can't run off it right as it's starting up.

One more suggestion: on Rustbukkit's tv, with the sun glaring in, he said it was hard to see the grab switches on the enemy. Maybe it's just him

but you might want to consider making them just a tad more noticeable.

Anyways, what I saw was incredible despite what seems like negative feedback above. I'll definitely go back and finish this level sometime soon. I rated it 5 stars, and hearted it because I knew judging by what I'd already played that the rest would be just as awesome

Great stuff, never stop creating!

2009-07-21 21:17:00

Author:
hilightnotes

Posts: 1230

I just finished giving this a go. Unfortunately, during the mine shaft drop, I died and it said I ran out of lives! Oh well, I will be back to finish!

I assume I played most of the level though, so I'll give my impressions thus far. Right off the bat, I loved the title sequence. I thought it was almost a recap of sorts. The drop ships and explosions and tell the palyer that a battle has been raging and they are in the middle of it!

The rest of the visuals were top notch and well detailed. The level design was solid and even though I did wonder if I was going the right way, I always was. I never got stuck. I also loved how you traversed the area in a strange order where you would see a room at the beginning that you wouldn't actually get to until the end. There were a couple moments were I felt the backtracking was unnecessary, but for the most part, I thought you handled it very well.

The creature sequence was pretty fun and the creatures looked good (I liked how they went to one knee to shoot). The boss fight was nice and it was an interesting choice to have it so early in the level, I liked that.

Great Level!

2009-07-21 21:20:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer

Posts: 1335

Nice work, man. No complaints... I think this is your best work yet, and shows off everything you've mastered in your style as time's gone on. 5 stars for the non-believers out there.

Wow, only 3 dog tags out of 8...

2009-07-21 21:40:00

Author:
Unknown User

I didn't know this was out already but I played it earlier when just checking your levels to see if there was anything new.

As soon as I entered the level there was no mistaking the style. The design was amazing as always.

I didn't have a clue where to use all those stickers though. I put some of them on the 3 squares on the wall to the left after the boss and after jumping across the platforms above the gas. I heard the sound but didn't actually see anything happen so I've no idea what it did.

I killed the boss in the correct way by popping the brains then doing the grabs but I don't know what difference that made either as nothing was indicated. Oh by the way when I did the last grab and it died it dropped me in the gas which I wasn't very chuffed about.

Then I rode the elevator way up and killed the alien thing but when I was fighting the aliens that dropped down on either side and I had to shoot them with the paintinator I couldn't finish because it had a major breakdown.

I think it was the 5th one that dropped down ( on the left hand side ) that caused the problem. I shot it as I had all the others but when it died it left part of the brain and some thin layer parts still lying around. I tried shooting them and jumping up and down on the half-brain but it wouldn't disappear and then nothing else happened so I was just stuck there with no way out.

I took a couple of photos to show you but my PC isn't recognising the memory stick at the moment ( It always does that. It only recognises them the first time they're plugged in. If I want to put one in again I have to restart the PC - Weird !! ) so I'll have to try and post them here again later today when I get up.

2009-07-22 02:20:00

Author:
mistervista

Posts: 2210

Juicy, gritty, zany, coordinated madness. You sir are a genius!!

I loved it.. I am still in awe at how you reuse level parts. You gain quite a bit of immersion by interweaving the platforming back and forth over the overlapping scenery where the rest of us just build more rooms where we need to! Incredible.

I've said it to you before, but your levels are the only ones I have ever felt like I needed to keep notes or have an in-game GPS system!!

I can't list all the pros.. as the level is the definition of pro!

Cons.. none really!! ...well, except giving CCubbage the rank of general!LOL!

A few nitpicks.. A few minor spelling mistakes at the beginning. Did see a wobble bolt on the left lower part of the big martian beast. ..and my girlfriend said she saw a speaker somewhere, but I never did. I was busy!!
I did like CCubbage's suggestion for the next part about slightly changing the decoration so you realize better than you are in a new area. Maybe just slight lighting changes. ...but have to dig horribly deep to find anything to nitpick!!!

I only found two dog tags.. actually SAW 3, but haven't figured out how to get the other yet as I saw it too late.. I will have to give it another go!!!!

5 stars and a heart! Wish I could give more stars!!

2009-07-22 02:34:00

Author:
jwwphotos

Posts: 11383

juicy, gritty, zany, coordinated madness. You sir are a genius!!

I loved it.. I am still in awe at how you reuse level parts. You gain quite a bit of immersion by interweaving the platforming back and forth over the overlapping scenery where the rest of us just build more rooms where we need to! Incredible.

I've said it to you before, but your levels are the only ones i have ever felt like i needed to keep notes or have an in-game gps system!!

I can't list all the pros.. As the level is the definition of pro!

Cons.. None really!! ...well, except giving ccubbage the rank of general!lol!

A few nitpicks.. A few minor spelling mistakes at the beginning. Did see a wobble bolt on the left lower part of the big martian beast. ..and my girlfriend said she saw a speaker somewhere, but i never did. I was busy!!
I did like ccubbage's suggestion for the next part about slightly changing the decoration so you realize better than you are in a new area. Maybe just slight lighting changes. ...but have to dig horribly deep to find anything to nitpick!!!

I only found two dog tags.. Actually saw 3, but haven't figured out how to get the other yet as i saw it too late.. I will have to give it another go!!!!

5 stars and a heart! Wish i could give more stars!!
Do I hear a hint of disrespect, private???! DOWN ON YOUR KNEES! GIVE ME 100!

2009-07-22 02:41:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

Do I hear a hint of disrespect, private???! DOWN ON YOUR KNEES! GIVE ME 100!

Again??!! Dang it... You read this stuff huh?

2009-07-22 03:25:00

Author:
jwwphotos

Posts: 11383

Could someone please let me know what is the name of the sticker with yellow and black stripes. I could then try to find it in the main game.

By the way I found one issue as well. When fighting the red monster and jumpin on top of it I ended up inside the rock ceiling. I was able to move there but could not get out.

2009-07-22 08:47:00

Author:
Unknown User

Just managed to get the photos of the broken part off my memory stick so here they are :

Sorry they're a bit small. Just click them to view bigger. You should be able to see what I mean.

2009-07-22 11:36:00

Author:
mistervista

Posts: 2210

Played it earlier this morning. As with part one it was too messy for my liking. I prefer clear clean levels, but I enjoyed it anyway.

The only thing I noticed that you might want to fix is that there is a huge gap above the monster in which you can get trapped. edit: Oh, tee-jii already mentioned that. Unlike him I could get out, though.
I had picture, but I had to delete because my profile was full. :/

PS: Oh, and the soundeffects of the enemies you shoot down don't disappear with them so if you walk to the place where they died you can still hear them scream.

2009-07-22 11:45:00

Author:
Syroc

Posts: 3193

Woohoo!

Just played this level with my cousin on his account (jae moon), and we've now set the highest single player score!!

7/8 dog-tags found! grr but I have no idea how to get to that last one...

Anyway, just thought I should let you know I found a few more parts where the player can get away with things that he/she shouldn't be able to. I noticed when doing the sticker switch challenge this time that red/blue/yellow square stickers all yield the "success" sound, even when placed on the wrong square...is this meant to happen?

Also, I was exploring for dog tags at the section where the Martians fly down and fight you, and I managed to jump on one's head and up to the higher platform, from where I could go exploring across the top of the level and do a bit of sight-seeing

Anyway, great job fixing that part where I fell down earlier, I noticed the changes and they were perfect. This level just keeps getting better and better!

2009-07-22 13:24:00

Author:
CheesyMcFly

Posts: 211

I was a fan of the first in the series, and here's what I thought of the second.

A great introduction sets the scene for a madcap mix of puzzles and platforming. Love the timbre of colours. Like others have said, it was definitely a case for me that the first one served as hors d'oevres to this main meal!

PROS
+ Brilliant introduction
+ Lavish, detailed environments
+ Some tricky puzzles
+ Nice, but sometimes panicked, flow about it
+ Even better when the first is played immediately beforehand

CONS
- The dogtags: where've you hidden the last one? My guess is it's embedded offscreen somewhere!

OVERALL
I sometimes forget why a creator is among my favourites. This level reminded me. Great stuff, nice work.

5*, hearted, and tagged with 'Satisfying'. Well done, and thank you.

2009-07-22 13:39:00

Author:
MrsSpookyBuz

Posts: 1492

Could someone please let me know what is the name of the sticker with yellow and black stripes. I could then try to find it in the main game.
I believe it is called Danger Chevron.

2009-07-22 13:53:00

Author:
BSprague

Posts: 2325

I had worried about people not having the sun sticker in FI3 myself and went with what I remembered being one of the first stickers I got, hoped for the best, but basically thought "screw it... if they don't have it, oh well!".

Maybe for the sticker switch puzzle, you could have the stickers already in the 2nd area, but all in the wrong order... that way players who don't have the stickers could just rearrange them as needed... even then, there's a risk that they could accidentally delete the stickers instead of placing them down, and it might make the solution seem really obscure, but it might still be a better alternative to someone not having the stickers at all.

If all else fails you could replace all those stickers with custom stickers that are collected in the level, somewhere in a spot that makes sense. It wouldn't have to be all different either, just photograph the stickers like they are. There are people stubborn enough to refuse turning on prizes... but you could always have General Ccubbage order them to enable prizes right before they collect it, in some hilarious fashion.

2009-07-22 14:02:00

Author:
Unknown User

Thanks BSprague. It seems that this sticker comes with MGS package that I have not downloaded. So it would cost me 6 ? to complete this stage

To NinjaMicWZ - it seems not to be possible to copy / paste stickers that you don't own.

2009-07-22 14:24:00

Author:
Unknown User

@comphermc

-I was confused at first on how to beat the mini-boss. I know there were speech bubbles telling me kill it, but I wasn't sure how to get to its head.

It was orginally just a normal hazard filled room, but keldurs post on the level inspired me to make it a boss instead. The speech telling you what to do and movement of the arms are easy enough to follow, thanks for pointing it out, but I'm leaving it as is

-The gas on the mini-boss seemed a bit high on the far left of its body. I would jump from the ledge, touch its body, and die... it was semi-frustrating

Its now reduced in size, and the problem seems to have stopped.

-I didn't have a problem with it, but some people may not be able to continue if they don't have all of the stickers used in the sticker puzzle

Changed, NinjaMicWiz recommended a solution that worked perfectly.

-A few typos in early speech bubbles

All my levels have this, its like a trademark ;p

-I am familiar with your level style, but others may be confused where to go on account of the insane detail throughout.

There fault for not playing my earlier levels

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate the good comments, and have fixed the main bad ones, again, thanks for playing and taking the time to leave what you thought.

@hiilightnotes

The first time, we got to where the martian guy comes down from the air to attack you. When you go into the area where he's waiting, a bunch of fire boulders fall behind you so you can't go back. However, Rustbukkit was still behind there. I died, and he accidentally activated the checkpoint behind the flaming wall, so we both ended up coming out there. We couldn't get back to the alien guy and therefore couldn't progress.

Prox. switch changed to require all, this will stop that happening

The second time was even before this, after we defeated the first big enemy who has the two grab switches on him. We defeated him and continued on, up to the elevator that you're supposed to go up. I got on the elevator, pulled the lever, and accidentally walked off - I guess I was close enough to the ground so it just went off it when I moved against the elevator wall. So yeah, the elevator went up without us. Maybe just make a bit of an enclosing on the sides of the elevator so you can't run off it right as it's starting up.

I'll slim the sides in, they are a little non-symetrical at the moment, I noticed this after you pointed it out, cheers.

One more suggestion: on Rustbukkit's tv, with the sun glaring in, he said it was hard to see the grab switches on the enemy. Maybe it's just him but you might want to consider making them just a tad more noticeable.

Ive zoomed the camera in a tad, hopefully to make the switches more noticable.

@jwwphotos

A few minor spelling mistakes at the beginning.

Sort of a trademark (excuse), see above

Did see a wobble bolt on the left lower part of the big martian beast.

Hidden

..and my girlfriend said she saw a speaker somewhere, but I never did. I was busy!!

She must remember where, this thing bugs me. If she can't, I'll send the general round!!! He's got drills to make people remember stuff

Thanks for all the good stuff you said to, pleased you enjoyed the level.

@mistervista

Youre the second person this has happened to, jump_button got the same yesterday, I'll seriously look into this thanks

@cheesymcfly

Anyway, just thought I should let you know I found a few more parts where the player can get away with things that he/she shouldn't be able to. I noticed when doing the sticker switch challenge this time that red/blue/yellow square stickers all yield the "success" sound, even when placed on the wrong square...is this meant to happen?

No its not, and I don't know why it is, maybe its just the game??

Also, I was exploring for dog tags at the section where the Martians fly down and fight you, and I managed to jump on one's head and up to the higher platform, from where I could go exploring across the top of the level and do a bit of sight-seeing

People always find cool places I SHOULD have hidden secrets after the game is out and the thermo is bursting, I don't think this is anything major though, but I'll have a look

And congrats on the top score

@mrsspookybuzz

Thanks for the kind comments, pleased you enjoyed the level.

The dogtags: where've you hidden the last one? My guess is it's embedded offscreen somewhere!

It depends which one you mean?? The one you think maybe the last, is'nt

@ninjamicwiz

I've implemented that, thanks for the suggestion. I think the mention of general cubbage at the start is fear enough for most

@tee-jii

Thanks BSprague. It seems that this sticker comes with MGS package that I have not downloaded. So it would cost me 6 ? to complete this stage

To NinjaMicWZ - it seems not to be possible to copy / paste stickers that you don't own.

I've completely changed this section, you should now be able to pass it, have fun!!

Thanks to everyone again for the feedback, its invaluble for making my levels work correctly, and its always nice to read the good things people say

2009-07-22 14:28:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Hmmm.... the thing MisterVista ran into sounds like an issue I've had a few times, where the paintinator breaks light material. So, if the alien is made out of cardboard or something else light, that main material disappears instead of firing the paintinator switch.

The way I solved this in the past is putting a magnetic switch on the object and using a magnetic key set to inverse to fire the resulting action. The paintinator switch would still be set to destroy the brain, but that way if the magnetic key disappears because of the paintinator switch OR the material its on disappears you get the same result.

Its a pain in the neck, but every splat invaders creature worked that way.

Same thing happened to me at the final boss in H.A.T.E II twice.

2009-07-22 14:33:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

Thanks Cubbage, although that would require one hell of a work around. I'll change the material to something heavier if you think that might solve it, because it is made of cardboard at the moment

2009-07-22 14:37:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Just playing the level now, here's what I think as I play it.

+WHOA! That's the best intro I've ever seen!

-Not really a big deal but there's a rusty material, like when you first show up after the intro, that when the decoration is too small it goes through it so it looks weird, I think you should change it to a flat material and put the Rust Patch sticker (under Realistic). I wouldn't think you would want to change it though, as I'm going through the level there's a lot of this material lol.

+Yay backtracking!

+-That Martian Strike Force thing looks awesome! Again just nitpicking here, there's a bolt visible on it (the ones you fight and the one that shows up in the text bubble) though.

-Another nitpick, you should move the thing on the right side of the scoreboard since it covers up the letters on it a little bit. Also, I think you should color the scoreboard.

Brilliant level! Sorry for all the nitpicking, that's the only thing I can do since I really had no cons. It was a beautiful level and the backtracking was done brilliantly. :star::star::star::star::star: and I have you hearted as an author.

Edit: I'm ashamed to say this but I only found 2 dog tags

2009-07-23 01:49:00

Author:
brnxblze

Posts: 1318

Played it last night (oh yea - you were there!)

Loved it! It's got your trademarks all over it. Thought the lighting was particularly nice in this level and the alien design was awesome. The one thing about your levels that drives me nuts are the secrets and this one doesn't disappoint. I think I found 3 my first time through and after the second time I think I could manage 5....I can't say for sure as now I know where some are that I didn't find without help.

You know the parts I had troubles with because you watched me do them so I won't go into details here. The only other thing I'd say is that people not used to playing a GrantosUK (tm) level are going to get a bit confused as to where to go next but that's the price of admission to one of your levels I think. It's what makes them fun for the more experienced players.

5 stars - hearted! And based on your track record for pumping out levels I'm expecting part three tomorrow....ok maybe Friday

Thanks for sharing your unique brand of level design with us yet again!

2009-07-23 01:53:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

All my levels have this, its like a trademark ;p

Hmm.. wouldn't that be trademakr ?

2009-07-23 02:02:00

Author:
jwwphotos

Posts: 11383

Managed to finish this time. The aliens died ok this time so it seems you fixed it thanks. I only found 3 dogtags though and I tried looking and jumping everywhere I could. I don't know how people find them.

I did encounter another problem though , sorry. Because I was jumping everywhere looking for those darn dogtags I jumped up from the mini-boss's head and ended up going behind the scenery off to the right and got totally stuck. I had to hit try again to get out.

I took a photo and uploaded it in the level but I don't know if it's appeared yet. I'm terrible for finding bits I shouldn't find and breaking stuff. It's weird how I do that but never find what I'm looking for.

I think I'm a Jinx , LOL.

2009-07-23 02:18:00

Author:
mistervista

Posts: 2210

My brain always curdles when i play your levels Grant. I don't know how you do it, but you use the planes so efficiently and cleverly it just amazes me every time. Half the time i don't even know if I'm going the right way but it always turns out I am and thats brilliant design.

The intro is wowsers, the entire level is packed with attention to detail and everything looks top notch, awesome stuff!!

2009-07-23 22:03:00

Author:
julesyjules

Posts: 1156

Okay, Vmethos and i played this one tonight. Sorry it took me so long. Amazing, Grant. I liked the first one a bit better... UNTIL I GOT TO THE MINE SHAFT! That was brilliant. We all know how much I love mines and stuff. Vmethos and I left you a whole bunch of pictures, so I hope you enjoy them. We really liked the level!

2009-07-24 02:48:00

Author:
xkappax

Posts: 2569

Hey, I just played through most of this (I managed to get stuck and couldn't work out where I was going. I got to the bit where it said the pumping room was open, then ended up back at the beginning of the level and there seemed to be nothing I could do. Not really sure what happened there.

So, overall it's a visually stuning level, as ever. All the scenery is really engaging and the way al of the sections fit together so you keep seeing where you are going to be / where you have been and the backtracking is excellent as well - it makes the scenery around the edges far less purely for show, if that makes sense? The platforming was pretty good and there were some nice twists on common obstacles (the jets "pushing" the electric bar back and forth for example, and the positioning the blocks using levers in advance so you can make your jumps across the gas).

OK, so now for the negatives / issues I found (all nitpicky BTW)
I got to the first dogtage before knowing what they were about, you may want to move the speach slightly, IDK.
On the first monster, there is small patch of gas that can kill you to the left of it. I can't see it but twice it killed me when I was making a legitimate jump.
On that boss I got trapped on the back layer at the top of the screen and couldn't get down. There is some kind of walkway and I jumped around for a couple of minutes but couldn't get out - I had to quit.
There is an ungassed section you can fall in to the right of the boss. Who playtested that boss for you? I tihnk you need someone better

A couple of times I wasn't sure what was going on. Before the attack, there were two grab switch es and a lever I pulled... I wasn't sure why but all they seemed to do, except signal an attack :s I probably wasn't paying attention enough though.
The set pieces end and a blockage magically dissapears. I know it's not a big deal and doesn't really affect gameplay, but I always like it when there is some logical reason.

Obviously those are all minor things, and the level is still definately :star::star::star::star::star: and a heart from me. I'll play again when I can and see if I can complete it.

F4F: I should finally be publishing my first level next week, so watch out for that thread

2009-07-24 13:25:00

Author:
rtm223

Posts: 6497

comphermc with the assist...

On that boss I got trapped on the back layer at the top of the screen and couldn't get down. There is some kind of walkway and I jumped around for a couple of minutes but couldn't get out - I had to quit.

The walkway should've allowed you to walk to the left and fall back down near the checkpoint. I did this my first time through as well.

2009-07-24 14:34:00

Author:
comphermc

Posts: 5338

Hey Fluffles, I have played your latest addition to the world of LBP multiple times by now but it has been kinda hard for me lately to post feedback.
Found the time to do it and yes, I in fact did it!!

Let me start off by saying I will address you today as Fluffles, king of layers and backtracking. And that brings me to my first point:

+ You are just so good at making use of different layers on a large scale.
Sometimes I have no idea how you do it, as well as implementing it with all the backtracking and have it all make sense when you solve the puzzles.
It is your greatest talent and one that has certainly earned you that shiny crown I've seen you with.

+ You have a certain visual style that has slowly evolved over time to include more details with each level. It is also very much you and makes a Fluffles-level instantly recognisable, wich I love.

+ The intro was done in an original way and served as a neat little "previously on Mars Attacks"

+ The lighting was quite good as well and presented us with an athmosphere mix between spooky and just plain awesome.

+ The dog tags were great in this one as well, you sure know how to hide your secrets. This was the hardest one yet!! I found six... with that last one you see just in front of the scoreboard taunting me every time I passed by.
Kudos to Burnvictim for finding them all!!!

+/- I did have some trouble with that bossfight in some areas...
Let us just say that I got squished in his armpits on a regular basis.

Those are things on top of my head, I didn't expect otherwise but you've made another solid addition to you ever expanding library of levels.

Very well done, Fluffers!!

Gave it 5 stars and a dogtag..I mean heart.

2009-07-24 20:42:00

Author:
Zwollie

Posts: 2173

I got to the bit where it said the pumping room was open, then ended up back at the beginning of the level and there seemed to be nothing I could do. Not really sure what happened there.
Well now I know. I wasn't paying attention was I. Meh I suppose that the price you pay for creating a level that overlaps itself so many times - stupid and ignorant gamers are going to get lost. IMO - let them (us?) suffer, as I said in my previous post, the fact that the paths overlap and you keep coming round as doors open and things activate is a great way to make your level. It's also difficult and you've pulled it off brilliantly.

This though:

5. A couple of times I wasn't sure what was going on. Before the attack, there were two grab switch es and a lever I pulled... I wasn't sure why but all they seemed to do, except signal an attack :s I probably wasn't paying attention enough though.

I still don't really get it. Can someone explain to me what the grab switches do. I deliberately didn't get them this time and wasn't sure what the diference was :/ AM I still just being stupid?

BTW, by the last (I assume last - it's near the end, don't wanna give any more info than that! ) dogtag you can see some mag switches / keys in the dark. TBH I though they were eyes of the beast below so it doesn't really matter

2009-07-25 14:05:00

Author:
rtm223

Posts: 6497

@rtm - the grab switches are related to a secret (but you need to find all of them).

@grantosuk - I found the elusive visible speaker that was mentioned before. It's the one that's attached to the sponge on a rope that breaks and falls into the gas pit (right before alien boss). It's a little orange speaker, and I assume it's the sound of the breaking rope.

Also, in the part right before the wave of baddies that shoot plasma balls, I was able to grab and remove the dissolve barrier before pulling the switch. It's not a huge deal, but I figured it was worth mentioning. Then, in the fight itself, I was jumping on their heads for 'funzies' and I got one of those weird super-sack-jumps and ended up on the second ledge above them (the one that's not gassed yet). Thanks

2009-07-25 14:22:00

Author:
comphermc

Posts: 5338

okay this is my first play through. I just played part I and loved it!. Congrats on your spotlight, btw!

~ the opening credits are terrific! I love how athe action of the plot causes the text to become visible! absolutely wonderful!

~ I'm fighting a big creature (prompt says to use graps last). I just bounced off the top brain, and got vaulted up into a little path behind a layer. There doesn't seem to be anything here and I'm having trouble getting back down. it'd be a cool place to stach some score bubbles, though. (repeatable. happened on 2'nd time through as well)

~ oops! I just rode the elivator up, ans slid down the shute that used to lead to the monster. now I can't get back up to move the blocks or go back. (restarting)

Martian strike force: they seemed a little standard and format compaired with the rest of your level. I thought you'd have 'em moving around as they shot at you or somthing. Also, you might consider using 1 or two less of them. By the 4'th one it was starting to get a little stale.

3 of your switch triggers are set to accept multiple stickers?. the other ones, I assume were meant for the LBPC logo (nice touch), and the camo guy. not sure if is't me not getting the puzzle, or if the puzzle is broken.

weolp, that's as far as i got. is that task working properly?

------
This level looks great and is great fun to play! As far as I got, I loved it. I'll try again later.

2009-08-08 12:19:00

Author:
swanbrown

Posts: 898

I've always liked your levels and this one is no different. Chalk full of great stuff. One thing I really like is the amount of freedom we have about where we want to go, and how you are able to squeeze everything together in one area. It really makes the place feel life-like. I too liked the intro, it was full of action and explosions and it gave a good recap on what happened in the last level.

As usual, your obstacles were all well designed and functioned perfectly. And that boss fight was very cool. I liked how we climbed all over that bugger and showed it who's the boss. Unfortunately, I didn't get to finish the level. When the elevator falls down the hole, my elevator got stuck. Now that was a week or 2 ago, so maybe you fixed it. But if not, now you know.

:star::star::star::star::star: and a heart

2009-08-11 00:31:00

Author:
RickTheRipper

Posts: 345

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