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The Adventures of the Prince: Chapter 1 The Attack

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The Adventures of the Prince: Chapter 1 The AttackFrazer951
http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01266.jpgThere once was a Prince who led a pampered and pedantic life, consisting of little more than lounging in luxury and wooing his whims. To say he was unlike a Hollywood starlet would be to lie. There too was a Sensei, whose pupil was the Prince, and in his old age he had become sarcastic, senile and had grown an affinity for pur?ed food and adult diapers. Together these two formed a union as unholy as a marriage between a Prideful Peacock and a Toothless Tortoise. But on the eve of the Prince?s sixteenth birthday the two were rattled into action, for an ancient threat had returned to claim the lives of the world.
all

YouTube - LBP - The Adventures of the Prince: Chapter 1 The Attack

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01260.jpg
And the Throne, it glistened.

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01263.jpg
And the Market, it bustled.

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01264.jpg
And the Sparks, they soared.

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01270.jpg
And the Gears, they spun.

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01278.jpg
And the Fires, they smoldered.

http://i968.photobucket.com/albums/ae164/howdydoody_951/DSC01266.jpg
And the Monster, it seethed.

Hello Everyone,

This is my first level ever and I really hope you enjoy it. I think it turned out fairly well, but I will let you be the judge of that. I tried to do a lot with lighting and I also tried to make the environments varied and beautiful in their own little way.While it was a bit trying at times I had a wonderful time creating it, so I hope my positive energy flows from my controller to yours!

Obviously I would love to hear feedback from all of you! Just let me know what level of yours you want me to play. If you feel like being extra kind it might even be nice if you left a link to your thread so that I could find it easily.

Happy gallavanting!

Sincerely,
Frazer Quin Huard (Frazer951)

2009-08-13 01:22:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

woah, those pics are huge. lol

Anyway, I got done playing this and it was lotsa fun. I loved the dialogue, I kept laughing throughout the level (that old man was great). The story is also interesting and I can't wait for the sequel (ending was cool). Everything about how the level looked/played was very well done and a joy to explore. The obstacles were unique and fun. My favorite were the spinning wheels guarding platforms. Very good job.

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

2009-08-13 05:53:00

Author:
RickTheRipper

Posts: 345

WOW, realy good stuff here.
We've got a personal and vivid artstyle, good gameplay, good flow, some tricky part, but overall a 5 stars.

2009-08-13 13:11:00

Author:
OmegaSlayer

Posts: 5112

This is a great looking level. I am struck by the visual density you have in many areas that are full of small decorations, knick-knacks and level elements. This is a lush looking level that always has something on the screen to pull you attention.

This may be a bit much for some players with the screen being too busy but I enjoyed all of it. There are just so many details in this level that you've really done an amazing job. The pictures you've included don't really do justice to some of the better looking sections of the level.

You've also done a very good job with the music as it really stuck out in a few places as being a good accompaniment to the type of action going on in the level.

Your two main characters are greatly realized through their dialogue and in the bang up writing you in the level description and supporting characters.

The level is long enough that it is very satisfying to play through with enough score bubbles and platforming challenges that give it a good bit of replayability.

The creature attack is handled superbly both in setting the scene and during the actual creature reveal towards the end of the game. You even re-emit the creature should the player fail which was something I seriously worried about when I died and respawned back at the top.

The story sequence at the end of the level is displayed and worked into the level with skill and show your ability for setting the scene and telling a story.

You've been consistent on this level in regards to showing pistons and wobble bolts and the like. At least I think you have. I did notice quite a bit of the moving pistons in the second half of the level and if it is your intention to incorporate this into the level image then that is fine but if it wasn't then you have a bit to set invisible.

This level really needs more than the 11 plays it had on it last night but it is telling that of those 11 plays you had 8-9 hearts. This level deserves it. Good job.

2009-08-13 16:46:00

Author:
Trindall

Posts: 297

The big fire monster that chases you is very bright, and makes it a little hard to navigate, but it's really not to bad of an issue as long as the player realizes that they are supposed to run away to the left from it. I died a few times trying to dodge the legs and sneak to the right.

the blue wheel with the fire obstacles inside is really hard. especially with the other two wheels before it. The difficulty curve makes a sudden jump here. The rest of the level is easy (comparatively) and the parts of the level before this are really easy.you might want to take it down a notch or two I imagine if you are going to loose a player, this is the spot where it will happen.

the summit: Fantastic look I like the glowy effect. a little hard to look at for long, but you keep it short and sweet (see rant below). Kudos.
rant:
I've seen creators try to make whole levels based on this kind of glitz effect or another, and I am usually a little put off by it. If you take away the effect those levels would be easily recognizable as sub-par. This is not the case here, in TAP chapter 1.

This is a GREAT looking, fun to play level!

I didn't rate it because my connection crapped out while I was playing, but I will heart it, and give it ...five. Yes, this is a five star level.

2009-08-13 17:01:00

Author:
swanbrown

Posts: 898

Just finished it and loved it!

The hands down best parts for me was the dialogue and your amazing use of lighting. The blending of colors throughout the level combined with the color correction stuff from the global lighting made this entire level a joy to just look at.

The dialogue was hilarious naturally. The fact that the princes voices for his dialogue was also giggle worthy made it even better.

I see what you mean about sticker usage. Kinda blew my mind in terms of how stickers can be used in that sense. Oo;;

All around, great level! No complaints! :star::star::star::star::star: + <3

Can't wait for part 2!

2009-08-13 19:25:00

Author:
Chaos

Posts: 16

i played it today
and i loved it

hearted it

2009-08-13 20:23:00

Author:
Unknown User

Did you just do your own wind effects on that video?

I'll be sure to check this out as the video and pics leave a very good impression.

Cya soon with feedback!!

2009-08-13 20:58:00

Author:
Zwollie

Posts: 2173

Hi Frazer - just played your level, and here's what I thought...

Okay, this certainly was a 'full' level - there was hardly a pixel wasted - and there was quite a bit of variety, too.

There were plenty of nice touches of humour in your storyline, and I thought the challenge was a mixture of both easy and challenging (those wheels of fire burnt my tush a few times!).

As I say, the level was quite busy, and personally I think its look could be improved if you made your pistons invisible. This is a personal thing, though, and it didn't stop the flow of the level.

Also - just a note - the level featured some good lighting and lots of fiery objects. There were a few places of slowdown when all this pyrotechnica was taking place.

PROS
+ Good story, with touches of humour throughout
+ Good balance of platforming
+ Loved the ending sequence (especially the lettering in blocks)
+ Fun!

CONS
- Sometimes, less can be more - I'm certain people will still enjoy this with slightly less busy areas
- A surreal, funny story that I enjoyed - but a few players may miss the mirth which would be a shame.

OVERALL
A good, solid, enjoyable level. And if this is your first, then I tip my hat to you and look forward to more.

I rate 4*, hearted you, and tagged with 'Satisfying'.

2009-08-13 21:11:00

Author:
MrsSpookyBuz

Posts: 1492

The big fire monster that chases you is very bright, and makes it a little hard to navigate, but it's really not to bad of an issue as long as the player realizes that they are supposed to run away to the left from it. I died a few times trying to dodge the legs and sneak to the right.

the blue wheel with the fire obstacles inside is really hard. especially with the other two wheels before it. The difficulty curve makes a sudden jump here. The rest of the level is easy (comparatively) and the parts of the level before this are really easy.you might want to take it down a notch or two I imagine if you are going to loose a player, this is the spot where it will happen.

Okay, I can definitely see what you mean by the monster chase scene. I was hoping that the bright lights would drive the character away from the monster rather than lure them towards it. I will add an arrow indicating which way to run... hopefully that clears up the confusion.

I knew that the spinning blue wheel would be a trickier part of the level, but I felt that the difficulty was fair. However, you may be right, it might drive some people away from my level. I really like the look of it (and have been given a few compliments on that section as well) so I think I will keep it, but slow it down a little bit to make it a bit (and I mean a BIT) easier.

Thanks for the feedback. Hopefully I have addressed your issues!

2009-08-13 21:33:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

Alrighty then, you asked for feedback, and you shall recieve o' prince!

Apologies for the Wall of Text that is sure to follow.

Okeydokey, so you start off in the throne room, it looks great, i always like being worshipped by the ladies ;p You leave the room via a lever... i'm not sure i get why he'd have a drawbridge to leave his house, but i guess it matched the furniture or something

Nice intro picture, i like how it incorporates a lot of the level.

Alright, so i'm lowering the drawbridge... lazy peasant *grumbles*, and i notice a few things. 1) the lights are hanging from clouds... Maybe a building or structure would make more sense? 2) the light on the switch is coming from nowhere- maybe put it in the darma head, make it a lit pagoda or something. It works as it is, its just a little odd IMO. Fun butterflies.

Woohoo! PARTAAAAAY!!!! Fun little dialogue there with the sensei.

Again, we have swinging clouds, and now some MM fans. I'm not entirely sure they fit in with what you're doing here... i guess they work, but my guess is you could probably make it your own more. Especially compared to other parts of the level, this looks kinda like a lazy transition. Nice lighting effects though.

Aaaagh! My intestines! Oh wait, those are just my ears... Nice work on the "intestinal art", it looks good, and is very creative. The ruins look good and wrecked. The door here doesn't have a bottlecap on it i notice.

Some nice scenery on the way up the mountain, hey look! Its gramps! Again, nice little dialogue, sets up the rest of the level rather nicely.

Now, we have some jumping fire... i'm not sure i like this to be honest. Its not all too creative, having logs jump up like that, but i think what irks me the most is the lack of sound. It just feels odd not having music playing.

Now the chase begins! Nothing particularly special about the chase, it works, but for one, i can't see the entire monster (hand), and for another, you didn't light up all the pieces. The hand also will dissapear if you stay still at the end for too long, it might be nice to keep it there until you leave (ie: lifetime infinite, max emitted one).

I really like the spinny gears. This is a mechanic i generally haven't seen used, and it works well. The blue wheel is a little hectic, as you have to jump rather precisely to get in, but other than that its great. The next room is cool as well, i like dodging the same obstacle twice, not to mention the look and effect of the lighting. The wheels after it are the same, an innovative way to use spinning wheels, which makes it more difficult and more satisfying to complete. The platforms work well, though it feels odd to have rock moving around like that, the elevators where more of a mechanical feel than just these rocks for some reason.

I like your exit a good deal. The climb up has the bubbles which is a great way of keeping the player engaged for that long climb. Then you have the story cutouts and the car... I think some of your cutouts could be done better (ie: the prince, and the temple) It looks like you just gave it a lazy attempt when you leave a bunch of white space like that.

You have some great dialogue which helps develop the character of the prince, a lazy playboy in a way... but it seems he does still have a heart

The sensei however seemed to have a little less explanation. I get the relationship between the two, but if i hadn't read the description just now i wouldnt have realized he was a sensei! Did you even put the word in there? I'm not sure you did. perhaps in chapeter 2

The level all looks very nice, you have some good lighting effects, and use stickers and decorations well.

Some of the platforming is inspired... some isn't, but overall, its pretty good.

Overall, this was definitely a good level, and perhaps i'm being too nitpicky, but not quite good enough for 5 stars from me. 4 stars, keep up the great work.

If theres anything more you want from feedback/specific feedback/clarification, please tell me. No F4F necessary (you read it wrong, i do feedback for free

)

2009-08-13 22:18:00

Author:
Burnvictim42

Posts: 3322

The story sequence at the end of the level is displayed and worked into the level with skill and show your ability for setting the scene and telling a story.

You've been consistent on this level in regards to showing pistons and wobble bolts and the like. At least I think you have. I did notice quite a bit of the moving pistons in the second half of the level and if it is your intention to incorporate this into the level image then that is fine but if it wasn't then you have a bit to set invisible.

This level really needs more than the 11 plays it had on it last night but it is telling that of those 11 plays you had 8-9 hearts. This level deserves it. Good job.

Thank you so much for the awesome feedback. I just have a few comments to make.

Firstly, I'm glad you liked the ending art panel things, but I think I will be reworking them a tiny bit, especially the first panel, which burn victim thought looked lazy.

Also, since someone else commented on me leaving the pistons visible, I may choose to make them invisible, but honestly, it was a conscious decision to leave them visible as I wanted the moving platform to look mechanical, not magical.

Again thank you for the feedback! I really appreciate it!

2009-08-13 22:38:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

As I say, the level was quite busy, and personally I think its look could be improved if you made your pistons invisible. This is a personal thing, though, and it didn't stop the flow of the level.

Also - just a note - the level featured some good lighting and lots of fiery objects. There were a few places of slowdown when all this pyrotechnica was taking place.

CONS
- Sometimes, less can be more - I'm certain people will still enjoy this with slightly less busy areas
- A surreal, funny story that I enjoyed - but a few players may miss the mirth which would be a shame.

OVERALL
A good, solid, enjoyable level. And if this is your first, then I tip my hat to you and look forward to more.

Thank you very much for the feedback.

I'm really debating if I want to make the pistons invisible or not. I kind of wanted that area to look more mechanical than magical. But I understand what you are saying and I will try tweaking them all to invisible and seeing if I like the way that looks. I have to be honest though, that may not change.

Also, if the slowdown from the lighting was worth you mentioning, then I will be sure to tweak some of that as well. Even if it looks great it is not worth sacrificing the gameplay.

I will also try cutting down on some of the visual excesses as well. Someone else mentioned that it might be a bit too much, and if that is the case then it will be fixed!

And lastly, this was my first level, although it went through many re-imaginings and rebuilds to get it to the level that it is now. Believe me, if I published the level the way I had first finished it, you would not have been so kind in your review!

Thanks again!

2009-08-13 23:31:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

i didn't think the art panel looked lazy... just those two cutouts, as there was a good deal of blank canvas that didn't need to be on those cutouts.

2009-08-14 00:48:00

Author:
Burnvictim42

Posts: 3322

i didn't think the art panel looked lazy... just those two cutouts, as there was a good deal of blank canvas that didn't need to be on those cutouts.

I just re-read what I wrote in a previous post and I am sorry for coming off so bitter. I did not mean to sound ungrateful about your feedback; indeed, quite the opposite is true! I appreciate everything that everybody has to say, and if you or anybody feels that any part of my level seems lazy, then I will try my best to make it better.

2009-08-14 02:00:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

Hello Everyone!

I have read through all of your assessments and taken them all into account. I went through my level last night and republished it with the following fixes. Hopefully I have addressed many of your criticisms by doing so.

- added a bottlecap to the previously "blank" checkpoint.

- made every piston invisible. While it had been a conscious decision to leave them visible to make them look more mechanical, I actually like the effect that they are given by being invisible as well... it looks a tidier.

- I went through the art panels towards the end of the level and re-shaped them to give them a better appearance.

- I cut down on some of the pyrotechnics during the fire sequence of the level to help with the slowdown some people have been experiencing.

- I added two more lines of dialogue between the Prince and the Sensei to help establish the connection between them better.

- I edited the in-game level description so that it was more akin to the level description I posted on this thread. Due to a word limit imposed on me for the in-game description, I wasn't able to be quite as detailed as I was on this thread, but at least this way there is even more set-up between the Prince and the Sensei. I also made it a touch funnier as the description before was a fairly somber.

- The spinning blue gear platform was slowed down to make it easier.

- During the monster chase sequence, I added arrows so that you know to run away from the monster and in what direction.

- The spotlight coming out of nowhere at the beginning of the level has been removed. I adjusted the camera angle so that you can rely on your own eyes to seek out the switch, rather than a light doing it for you.

- I reworked some of the decorations to help with frame rate issues and to make certain visually excessive areas appear more eye-friendly.

- Added more tempo to the music at the start of the stage so that it could be better heard.

- I added a few more prize bubbles in sneaky areas for more replayability.

- I made the Mm fans a touch more my own, but they are still in there. That section of the level needs to be rather simple because the pyrotechnics that go on during it would cause a lot of lag in a more complicated looking area. Also, I really didn't want players to die in the middle of all of that and miss out on how great the lighting is there.

Other than that stuff the other few changes I made were rather minor. I fixed a few bugs that I noticed during a play-through and retouched some other stuff. I hope that my changes have made this a more enjoyable level for you to play through!

Happy playing!

Sincerely,
Frazer Quin Huard

2009-08-14 17:20:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

I thought this level was very good. I found the dialogue between the various characters cute and funny, and it really helped to set the scene. The level goes from cute and funny to quite dark and scary (but with a humorous edge) relatively quickly, and definitely keeps you on your toes. The sensei character was particularly funny.

I also really enjoyed the part with the Godzilla-type fire monster - and the fact that it re-emits is great too. I thought the music and style of the level were well thought out, although personally I would have made the pistons on the moving platforms when you're climbing the mountain invisible, as I felt this might look better - but obviously it's your call!

I think the blue fiery wheel was quite difficult to get past, and the less experienced players might give up at this point, maybe you could just slow it down or put in an alternate route?

Thought the obstacles were very varied, and incorporated skill and timing together well. I also liked the finish of the level, with the summary of the story so far - perfect preparation for part II of your adventure. I'll look forward to playing it - well done!

You got :star::star::star::star::star: from me!

Frazer - I just realised that you already made the changes I suggested, which made my post pretty useless - I played the level yesterday morning and only got online to type a review today (laptop battery died else I'd have done it sooner!) Sorry for not reading your changes properly, and I'll definitely have a go on your updated level!

Had a go on the level again - really super, loved it! have hearted it and you, so will look forward to playing the next part of the adventure, and much prefer the platforms without the pistons, and the speed of the fiery rotating wheel! Great level

2009-08-15 12:59:00

Author:
littlebot

Posts: 60

Wow, it looks like I should play this one again after all those changes!

PS - Frazer, I hope you didn't feel pressured to make the pistons invisible. I only suggested it to give a possible option. I'll have a see how things look without them, but remember regardless of feedback, you, as author, always have the final say.

2009-08-15 16:42:00

Author:
MrsSpookyBuz

Posts: 1492

This is an excellent level, and what a debut! Funny dialogue, great platforming, remindeed me of Zwoltopia's Sir Sackboy series, along with a couple of Mm levels as well. Suggestions?

- You need to make some bolts and things invisible! Always looks better

2009-08-15 19:51:00

Author:
KoRnDawwg

Posts: 1424

I have to say this is a very good level. The dialogue is funny, It looks amazing and the gameplay is good.
The only problems I had was the minor slowdown at parts and at the beginning when the guy tells you to run away for some reason it took me a little while to realize that there was a platform(the lift) below me when I ran back. At the moment I'm stuck using my old 19in. sdtv so it may be harder for me to spot things.
I felt your level deserved a 5 star rating and a heart.
Good job!

2009-08-17 06:46:00

Author:
Unknown User

Hey,

I gave it a play through on my own with the pistons invisible and I liked the way it looked as well. I was never disappointed with the pistons being visible but if it is something that people thought detracted from the appearance of the level then I do not mind complying to that. I liked the way it looked either way, so why not please the masses?

- You need to make some bolts and things invisible! Always looks better

- An extra checkpoint here and there would help.
- The part with the burning horse-thing, you may want a moving checkpoint. I died and it seemed unrealistic to do see the horse come out of the mist once again. Unless you want a thing about rewinding time like the Prince of Persia games, which I think would be great.

:star::star::star::star::star: and a heart, the play count annoys me =(

I thought I made almost every single bolt and piston invisible. I know that I left a bolt on the drawbridge in the throne room and I also left the piston visible on purpose for the lift down to the monster chase that way people didn't try to swing or anything like that.
It was a conscious decision to make the monster re-emit if you died. It has always been a pet peeve of mine that you miss you an entire section of someones level for dying. I agree with you that it does seem strange though, but I would rather people get to enjoy that section to it's fullest!

2009-08-17 07:45:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

An all around great level! Fantastic use of decoration and stickers used here, this must have taken some time to compete and i reward your effort with 5 stars and a heart!

My only criticism is that the description and one of the speech bubbles (sorry forgot which one) are censored, try looking up the list of censored words on LBP and correct the 'offensing' material, im sure its just another case of 'ha ppen' >

2009-08-17 17:12:00

Author:
Mr_T-Shirt

Posts: 1477

It was a concious decision to make the monster re-emit if you died. It has always been a pet peeve of mine that you miss you an entire section of someones level for dying. I agree with you that it does seem strange though, but I would rahter people get to enjoy that section to it's fullest!

Yep, perfectly reasonably within a computer game. It is a set piece - think about boss fights etc. Quite regularly you have to complete the boss fight, or at least the boss fight stage, in one go. I say stick with it - I hate that some creators only give you one shot at a section, especially when the reason is clearly because making it reset was a little to much effort

I did actually play this the other night. I did like it quite a lot, but there were things that annoyed me about it. I can't actually remember enough to give proper feedback now - I just wanted to post that paragrah above. I f I play again I will give proper feedback.

Sorry

2009-08-17 17:55:00

Author:
rtm223

Posts: 6497

Just finished playing! WOW! Is that your first level? Its fantastic!...Anyway here's how I interpereted it...

LIKES:
* creative well-balanced platformer with a little bit of crude humor

* lighting and quirky details everywhere! fun to look at
* spinning gear concept...how you progressively added different flaming log patterns to them
* hearted for replayability and creativeness - might be fun to come back to this one again! can't wait for the expansions!

DISLIKES:
* well honestly, I didnt know what to think when I entered the level...I saw some swinging lanterns and hoped for the best! Boy! u sure didn't disappoint...it got better and better throughout!! Not much to complain about...u got your own style here, and it works well!

Nice Job & thx for your feedback on my lvl!

Graphics/Detail: :star::star::star: (just personal taste - I prefer sleek design over chaotic, intense art styles)
Logic/Creativity: :star::star::star::star::star:
Replayability: :star::star::star::star::star:

2009-08-17 18:44:00

Author:
miltonTPS

Posts: 126

Hello All,

Despite my best efforts to get everything fixed within one update, I fear I may have missed a thing or two that was brought to my attention. Additionally, some other things have been brought up as well so I have republished my level again with the following fixes and updates:

-The monster chase sequence has had a major overhaul that should fix all known issues with it, however, you would be hard pressed to really see the differences that have been made to it. The lighting has been changed to be less graphically intensive. Also, the monster has been programmed to start off slowly but gradually become quicker so that players get a chance to gather their wits before the monsters is right on top of them. I have also made him larger, reworked the camera angle, fixed parts of his body that had not been set aflame, and made all of the bolts invisible. Oh yeah, and I also made his lifetime infinite, so you can watch him for years if you would like, but he is always going to try and get ya'!

-I attached lights to the monster that attacks the dojo just to make him look a little spiffier.

-After the dojo is attacked, I attached lights directly to the platform to highlight its location better.

- I have reworked some of the lighting to make it just a bit more dynamic. Just a bit though... nothing too major.

And I think that is everything. The changes I made were not too huge. They mostly just helped the flow of the level, and fixed some discrepancies as well.

Thank you to all of those that have played and helped to make my level reach the Cool Levels thread! I appreciate all of your feedback immensely. I am still participating in F4F so for those of you who have not left any feedback yet, feel free to.

Thanks again, and I look forward to hearing more of your comments and criticisms.

Sincerely,
Frazer Quin Huard

2009-08-17 21:42:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

Okay, I just got done playing this. Very fun level! I went through it twice to try and up my score... but got less the 2nd time. I need to go back and give it another shot, though.

I loved the visual style. I don't think I've seen it before - it seems pretty original and there's a TON of stuff to look at.

Fantastic, well-thought-out gameplay that isn't too easy or hard.

By the way, that's one CREEPY looking baby with his limbs floundering around!

A few issues:

- The description on your level is censored. (we have a thread somewhere that shows a list of words that, even if embedded in other words, would cause censoring).

- Right after the speech bubble that says "Goodbye Sensei" or something like that, the very next bubble is censored.

- Huge monster - I died as soon as he was emitted, then I dropped down and followed him - he got stuck at the end of the section and didn't disappear for a long time. I waited, and tried to get around him but obviously died. Eventually he DID disappear after I died once and emitted again, but there may be an adjustment needed to make sure whatever switch (sensor?) activates the emitting of the beast actually gets triggered.. AND put a limit on how long before he disappears so that if the creator doesn't get re-emitted the player can still continue. By the way, "I" like that he is emitted again. I had the exact same thought in Starship Troopers - I wanted the players to have to get past every section so I did a lot of re-emitting.

Great job! 5 stars and hearted.

2009-08-18 00:28:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

Overall this is a great level. I loved the dialogue and atmosphere. The rotating heads at the end were my favorite bit. Everything was entertaining. The only few gripes I can think of were those peircing string noises. Those alone would have made me want to quit because they were very annoying after awhile. You could have a little less of those. Also, it was kinda hard to tell that the cresent at the peak was a ride. maybe you should make the material something lighter so it's easier to see? Just my 2 cents.

2009-08-18 02:11:00

Author:
Professor

Posts: 9

i just played your level and hearted it. it was pretty fun. really nice environments and atmosphere. and it is challenging but not really annoying, so that's good. very well done.

2009-08-18 05:42:00

Author:
Unknown User

Okay. I have an inkling now of why the level annoyed me and why I didn't post any feedback. I think I may have been in a crappy mood when I played through the first time

Second time through I really enjoyed it! The dialogue still annoyed me a tad - basically I found that the protagonist's character didn't go down well with me - too aggressive and arrogant. I know he's the prince so it does make sense and as I said to you before, it seems most people enjoyed the dialogue and it's your level, so I wouldn't change a thing there if I were you.

Other than that it's really good fun. The visuals are great, that opening room looks fantastic, and this continues with plenty of detail and stuff to look at and the gameplay is a decent challenge as well. It does take a sudden step up at one point as you get to the platforming, but that's not a particularly bad thing - the level has a logical split from slow (ish) plot based to action based platforming and I don't see a real issue there.

One nice obstacle was the wheel where you have to jump into it and their is fire inside. I love that while I'm waiting for that to spin round I have to dodge the previous obstacle - totally caught me by suprise the first time on both runs through

Minor points:
Nearly all of the points in the level are in that final pull up section. And any you miss just drop onto the platforms below so you can go pick them up after. Try to string your points into combos that are slightly difficult to get. It adds replay value.
Your secrets seem to mostly consist of a single prize bubble. As most people have prizes turned off, a points stash is a much better incentive to get people exploring.

At the moment nothing much else springs to mind. I gave it 5 stars on my second run through - I probably forgot to heart, I often do, but next time I'm round that way I'll be sure to do it

2009-08-18 13:23:00

Author:
rtm223

Posts: 6497

i liked it there wasn't much of a story but i get why i liked the visuals and how you used the level picture and made the ending sequence and thanks again for the review

2009-08-18 16:33:00

Author:
mat1629

Posts: 55

The beginning and end of this level are great. Between that I think there is too much of a little bit of everything!

I enjoyed the humor, even with absolutely no attention span I could be bothered to read the text and not just run along.

I saw a nasty piece of dark matter in the middle of the air near the start. Also some parts like the moving platforms were too square - they broke the flow with the environment! Take out the corner editing tool of your bag and make some jagged platforms.

Intro is beautiful and the ascending butterflies a nice touch. But the ride up the ice cavern is the my favorite part of the level.

Difficulty was a little mild for me but the gererous amount of bubbles kept me occupied.

2009-08-19 03:07:00

Author:
Kipmonlin

Posts: 251

Wow...what a cool, bizzare level! First off, let me say I'm not a fan of using pre-made MM objects myself, but I think you used them to great effect here. You augmented the overall look of the level with some fantastic use of global lighting, artistic composition and camera perspective, as well as some nicely sculpted terrain. I liked the way you used various dolls as NPCs here too...very creepy! The first half of the level had me laughing at some of the conversations and staged events, while the second half offered some great platforming sections, which were consistently challenging without ever becoming frustrating. Also, I'm intrigued to know where you're going with the story, and I liked the way you left the player with questions at the end, setting things up for a sequel.

But there are always gripes to be had, and I've got a couple for you. I had to restart twice because things...well...broke. First of all, you know that lift around the section where a kabuki doll complains that her intestines are splattered on a rock? Well, on my first attempt I fell off the lift when it reached the top and I couldn't get back up, meaning I had to restart the whole thing. Second attempt, I got screwed over by the giant flaming spider type thing, because it somehow destroyed the winch object that was supposed to lift me out of there after I had cleared all the firepit jumps. The creature stamped on the sponge and crushed it I think, but whatever...I had to start again. It's a shame because I was impressed with the creature and this would have been an awesome section otherwise, but my experience was marred by getting "trapped" here. Third playthrough I finally competed it without any more setbacks, but I worry that many players would not give a level too many chances after being forced to quit. Personally, I enjoyed it so much that I was willing to overlook the frustration of restarting and I persevered to the end, but you might want to take a look at those issues. Oh, and last of all a very minor thing...one of the legs of the wooden tables after lowering the first bridge looks slightly broken. Or is it meant to be like that, with a missing bit?

Anyway, 4 stars and hearted, with a "fun" tag from me, and I'll definitely play the sequel when it's ready.

2009-08-19 12:54:00

Author:
Ungreth

Posts: 2130

That was a really nice level! It sucks that it has less than 100 plays

I can see you spent a lot of time on the level. The story was great as were the conversations with the sensei (lol). I also really liked the bit at the end, you should make the bolts on the wheels invisible though. I really dislike the noise they make. I'll make sure to play the sequel when it comes out.

2009-08-20 00:45:00

Author:
brnxblze

Posts: 1318

Hello All,

I was just letting everyone know that the description has been redone (I can't believe the word "happened" sets of the censor!) as has the one censored speech bubbles.

I have also fixed the problem that Ccubbage notices with the fire monster... I hope.

I have read everyone elses gripes with this level and I will let you know when they have been fixed via a post similair to this one. I should be able to fix the problems by tomorrow I hope, but alas, I only have time to post this and now I must run to dinner!

Thank you for all of the feedback and all of the kind words! Your comments make the excutiating amount of time I have put into this level well worth it!

With Thanks,
Frazer Quin Huard

2009-08-20 02:43:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

Sorry for the my extremely late F4F, but here it is:

+ I like the style of everything, how colorful and decorated the things are.
+ Story seems nice.
= The game play is somewhat generic for me.
- There is a steep difficulty curve in the middle part of the level, at the part with the spinning wheels.

One thing I liked is when the attack happens. Some levels would most likely be like: Oh no! A monster attacked us! And you walk over and find a few buildings with the Lethalize tool simply applied to them.
But I like the way how you start swinging through the place, and then you start hearing chaos, and lights start flashing about, sparks fly out, and then you find things in disrepair.

Great level! I forgot what I rated it, most likely 5 stars, and I hearted the level too.

2009-08-20 03:29:00

Author:
warlord_evil

Posts: 4193

Hello All,

I was just letting everyone know that the description has been redone (I can't believe the word "happened" sets of the censor!) as has the one censored speech bubbles.

It's because "happened" contains the word pene, which is Spanish for the thing that dangles between a man's legs.

Strangely though, you used the word cr@p without being censored.

2009-08-20 07:37:00

Author:
Ungreth

Posts: 2130

Just played through it and thought it was really a fun level to play. Most of what I'd like to comment on has already been mentioned so I'll keep it brief

+ Great platforming challenges
+ Nice variety of them too
+ Great "flow" of one skill into the next (a very hard thing to do imo)
+ Interesting story
+ Lighting in most areas is excellent and I love some of the light combinations you've blended
+ The scoreboard area is gorgeous - xkappax you gotta see if if you haven't yet
+ I like the idea of the teaser scenes at the end

Couple of things could really push this level up in terms of polish for me

- While I love lush decorations, if you have a lot going on visually it becomes distracting. Especially when some of the decorations don't seem to fit the theme of the area they are in. If you can stick to a few types of decorations in an area it makes it easier on the eyes and more clear where to go next. Some of your areas are great in this respect but others are just too much for me (just my opinion)
- The old man used from baby parts is really creative but just a little too weird for my taste.
- the title sequence at the end is hard to read for me. It's either the shapes you have used or the lack of contrast between the letter colors and the background. It was hard for me to narrow down which one was causing me to have an issue with it.

Overall this is a fantastically fun level to play with some real moments of genius. The core platforming is great and just about perfect for difficulty. I think if you re-evaluated some of the material choices and decorations you've set up the level would look a little more polished and cohesive as a whole. I gave it 4 stars and hearted it and I'm really looking forward to more levels from you. Thanks for sharing it!

2009-08-20 08:10:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Hi Frazer, thank you for your comments on my level.

I played through yours last night and was really impressed that you pulled this off being your very first level.

I thought the lighting was very well done and the obstacles creative.

I loved the flowers floating upwars with the lights.

I liked the circular parts with the fire very much.

The story was nicely put together.

I also really liked the ending.

When I was playing it my fiancee walked past and I told her that this was your first level and just said "wow, it looks great"

Stylistically I would have prefered a less busy approach but that of course is only my opinion and not a fault.

Also, for your next level I would play around with making your own character and obstacles from scratch as it can really add some zing to a level.

Overal I thought it was a really enjoyable level and a real achievement for your first time out. I'll be keeping an eye out for your next

2009-08-20 09:14:00

Author:
wexfordian

Posts: 1904

Hello Everyone who chooses (and has chosen) to visit my level thread,

I have went over all of your gripes and made a lot of fixes to the level. Below is a list of things that have been revamped, deleted, or added.

-The piece of dark matter floating in the middle of nowhere has been covered up.

-Secret prize bubble locations now have more points bubbles to make looking for them even more fruitful.

-I have added points throughout the level in order to allow players to make point combos more effectively, therefore separating the scores between people who lucked out on the last climb of the level, and those who took the time to string combo's together and search for point stashes.

-The lift at the end of the monster chase sequence has been changed to something more akin to an elevator, which should keep the monster from being able to destroy the lift accidentally.

-The end title sequence has been reworked so that it is easier to read and funner to watch.

And that is about it everybody. I have made a few little changes other than those ones, but none that are worth listing.

I hope you have a wonderful time playing my level, and hopefully people returning to my level will agree that the changes I have made make the level far more enjoyable!

Thanks to everybody for the amazing feedback, and don't forget that this still is an F4F thread, so feel free to let me know what you would like me to play in exchange for playing my level.

Thanks again!

2009-08-25 22:30:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

Great, great level. It was terrific I must say. Everything from gameplay to design was well thought out. The traps were innovative, the design was stunning, and the music was very appropriate. Amazing level, highly recommended! :star::star::star::star:

2009-08-29 01:05:00

Author:
galacemiguel

Posts: 179

Hello again,

In an attempt to make my level as best as it can be, I have republished it yet again with the following fixes:

-All lifts have been outiftted with a proximity switch rather than a two way switch. This should fix any problems anybody would have had with the elevators. I really do not know why I just did that now... it should have been done that way from step 1!

-More point bubbles have been added throughout the level.

And that is about it. Hopefully this fixes almost every problem with my level. I know that some people have said a negative thing or two about my abundant use of decorations, but I just cannot bring myself to change things too much. I have toned down the graphical intensity in some areas, and tried to remove any decorations that blocked the players perception of where to move next. I really cannot bring myself to do much else to the visuals in my level. One of the most frequently used tags to describe my level has been "beautiful" and quite frankly, that tag makes me prouder than any other.

Thanks for everyone's input; you have helped to make my level better than it was when I first published it.

Remember, this is still an F4F thread, so feel free to tell me what you want me to play in exchnage for playing my level.

Thank you all so very much!

2009-08-31 22:33:00

Author:
Frazer951

Posts: 117

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