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Pretty Simple by jackofcourse

Archive: 67 posts

Pretty Simple by jackofcourse

It's very different from my other stuff so I'd say check out for yourself first hand...pictures are there if you want to look though

An old adversary that has evaded all our Sackboys on many an occassion is up to no good, and it is down to you and your Sackboy to save the day.

A lot different my previous stuff as you can see from the pictures (if you choose to look). The mechanics are much simpler than any of my other levels. A lot of gravity and physics based gameplay as appose to the mass of over engineered platforms that you usually get.

You should also prepare yourself for a truly epic tale...

Pictures and Video
YouTube - LittleBigPlanet | Pretty Simple by jackofcourse | Gameplay (HD)

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/1-1.jpg http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/2-1.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/3-1.jpg http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/4-1.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/5-1.jpg http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n195/jackofcourse/6-1.jpg		2009-09-16 22:12:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

That looks very interesting. I'll take a look asap.2009-09-16 22:14:00

Author:
mistervista
Posts: 2210

Just gave it a run through and I loved every second of it, you didn't change your style, which is a plus, but you added a story, and a very epic one at that.

One aesthetic problem, magnetic key is visible at the end, and I mean very end, the little bouncer thing that takes you to the scoreboard.

Other then that, loved it. I especially loved the little platform things that switch sides and what not, haven't seen that done before.

Once again, good job.

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

Who would've thunk scoreboards could be oh so evil...		2009-09-16 22:59:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

Just gave it a run through and I loved every second of it, you didn't change your style, which is a plus, but you added a story, and a very epic one at that.

One aesthetic problem, magnetic key is visible at the end, and I mean very end, the little bouncer thing that takes you to the scoreboard.

Other then that, loved it. I especially loved the little platform things that switch sides and what not, haven't seen that done before.

Once again, good job.

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


Thanks a lot I will sort that little mag switch out!
Oh no you've ruined the story, spoiler/edit the post please haha		2009-09-16 23:07:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

I enjoyed it very much... i did think however that more sound effects were needed- especially with the moving 'stairs' platforms. I just didnt feel the wooden clunk suited the level. Also the story element was minimal really.

Still, loved the style and everything works very well. Another great level to add to ur collection!		2009-09-16 23:13:00

Author:
ladylyn1
Posts: 836

Really fun level with a very unique style. Nice job.

:star::star::star::star::star:		2009-09-16 23:16:00

Author:
Killian
Posts: 2575

I enjoyed it very much... i did think however that more sound effects were needed- especially with the moving 'stairs' platforms. I just didnt feel the wooden clunk suited the level. Also the story element was minimal really.

Still, loved the style and everything works very well. Another great level to add to ur collection!

I understand what you mean about the sound effects, usually my levels are full of them, but through messing around and playing with them here I found they just didn't fit very well. It took away from the brooding nature and just the calm feel of it all in general.

The story element was minimal? How dare you!! I think you'll find it is epic beyond epicness!!

Thanks for playing!		2009-09-16 23:19:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Darnit, I just powered off my system, but this means I have to go turn it back on. 2009-09-16 23:22:00

Author:
comphermc
Posts: 5338

:star:Just played

The sound was pretty good but for some reason, I didn't think the music fit very well (probably just me)

The graphics were great! Very original and I've never seen anything like it. The mix of colours were perfected and very well done. The gameplay was fairly good and new however seemed *somewhat* similar to me throughout the level. Despite this, I enjoyed it quite a lot!

I'm stuck on time so I'll make this shorter and sweeter!

:star::star::star::star::star: Level due to 'epic' story... lol. Nice job		2009-09-16 23:25:00

Author:
iGotFancyPants
Posts: 1355

Thanks for playing Yes I think the music is going to be a bit hit and miss with a few people.

I've had comments that it fits really well and others say they aren't keen already. Unfortunately due to it being a calm moody level and the lack of music that fits this kind of level, there isn't much choice to go on

Thanks for playing, glad you liked it.		2009-09-16 23:32:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Ooh, this looks cool! I'ma go play it!2009-09-16 23:35:00

Author:
CaptainCowboyHat
Posts: 153

Thanks a lot I will sort that little mag switch out!
Oh no you've ruined the story, spoiler/edit the post please haha

Oh sorry about that, completely skipped my mind. Spoilerfied!		2009-09-16 23:35:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

No problem..

It was something that just had to be taken care of though, we can't have it ruined for everybody...it's life changing stuff after all...		2009-09-16 23:37:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

No problem..

It was something that just had to be taken care of though, we can't have it ruined for everybody...it's life changing stuff after all...

Indeed, the story had me tear driven the whole time, I'll be hoping to see another sequel or something, more stories like this!		2009-09-16 23:39:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

Played it, and it was a fun little level. It means more to us here, after you had that lbp-dilemma a while back, where you felt criticized for not having any story in your levels. This'll show 'em!

I liked all the little mechanisms going on throughout, and I even saw some demitter technology on the glass doors (woot!). How much DM did you use to block off the back layer...? I'd imagine a ton! The only suggestion I would have is to put some sort of sound on the explosive majigger, as I didn't expect it to blow up. Good stuff. 		2009-09-16 23:41:00

Author:
comphermc
Posts: 5338

I just played it (I got the lowest score... I suck! )

It was delightful; you need to teach a class on how to make all those little gadgets and such. I just can't manage stuff like those platforms that flipped over but were navigable either way.

My only minor quibble? The "3x only" sign over the platform-maker made me think you were telling me I need two other players... So I ran around like a big stupidhead looking for the single player route. When I realized my mistake, I felt stupid. WHY DID YOU MAKE ME STUPID?!

...

Sorry, I'm a little emotional right now because of the epic storyline in this level. I haven't cried that much in years! 		2009-09-17 00:07:00

Author:
CaptainCowboyHat
Posts: 153

My only minor quibble? The "3x only" sign over the platform-maker made me think you were telling me I need two other players... So I ran around like a big stupidhead looking for the single player route. When I realized my mistake, I felt stupid. WHY DID YOU MAKE ME STUPID?!

Oh yeah, I kind of felt like that as well. Though I quickly realized it after 10 or so seconds.		2009-09-17 00:12:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

He did it again...and in a great way!

As always, good platforming et mechanic ideas!
I liked the little story...

I'm not gonna say that it's my favorite in terms of visuals
but the level has a strong and "pretty simple" graphical identity which works well !

:star::star::star::star::star: Nice job!		2009-09-17 00:28:00

Author:
dajdaj03
Posts: 1486

Ooh, the graphical style looks really cool - I have always loved "pretty simple" visuals

Unfortunately, I'm banned from the PS3 today, so I will have to play tomorrow 		2009-09-17 00:36:00

Author:
goldenclaw13
Posts: 224

Oh yeah, I kind of felt like that as well. Though I quickly realized it after 10 or so seconds.

Clearly you are roughly 50 seconds smarter than me.		2009-09-17 01:36:00

Author:
CaptainCowboyHat
Posts: 153

I just finished playing this, brilliant job as always. I loved the nearly monochromatic color scheme with the occasional dash of red, and the story line was genius. The platforming/puzzle elements worked seamlessly and I can only imagine how long it took to perfect them. There were lots of opportunities for combos and such, and my only complaint is that I wish it was longer. Fantastic job, this one is sure to be a hit! 2009-09-17 02:17:00

Author:
BSprague
Posts: 2325

i really felt no connection between the story and the course lol

as if you had added it in after you finished.

otherwise this has been an awsome experience. Only a genius would think of all these new obstacles that can be done upside down and right side up and all that junk, like nothing ive seen before and the abstract look gave it a cool spin.

five stars
:star::star::star::star::star:		2009-09-17 06:03:00

Author:
Littlebigdude805
Posts: 1924

I definately think the well-designed point bubble combo system helped here. I saw all these ways of getting more points and ended up playing it through 4 times. Based on that, I personally had more fun in this one than your other levels.

Layout was fantastic, concept was original. Great adicting fun!

5 stars and a heart! Nice job!		2009-09-17 12:01:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Played this last night with mrsv and really loved it. The colours and design are absolutely beautiful, fantastic work from a very talented creator.

Icey		2009-09-17 13:25:00

Author:
IceMaiden
Posts: 1057

Oh, wait...a lot of 5 stars here...what...jackofcourse...the one that nearly a month ago didn't know how to evolve its style...
Good stuff, man!		2009-09-17 14:54:00

Author:
OmegaSlayer
Posts: 5112

i really felt no connection between the story and the course lol


Yeah that was the point really. It's pretty much an anti-story, it's whole purpose was to just have a humorous dig at the people who said my levels needed a story!

Glad everyone is liking it so far. It seems to be doing well, other than being on 4 stars because some little $%$%? rated it 1 star straight away!		2009-09-17 15:57:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

I really enjoyed it! I love the simple, clean, minimalist style. It was a little dark, but not too bad. The layout and flow worked really well and as always, you have some great platforming contraptions that all performed flawlessly. The part with the sponge being moved from section to section was probably my favorite. I found the story to be hilarious and loved the concept.

And speaking about the story, I know that you did this to poke fun at the request for stories in your levels, but I actually felt that this level benefited greatly from this "anti-story". I think it would still have been a solid level with out it, just like your other levels, but the story you came up with was very creative and entertaining. It gave the level a little something special.

I loved it! Well done!		2009-09-17 17:21:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Dang, that sucks that the level only has 4 stars. It is a 5 star level! Man, I really don't like 1 star rating n00bs. I hearted the level and gave it 5 stars. *Hearted you as an author months ago.*2009-09-17 17:27:00

Author:
theonlybub
Posts: 690

Looks really bad but i'll check it out anyway, i'll tell you how to improve it once i have.2009-09-17 19:46:00

Author:
anpostteller
Posts: 16

Looks really bad but i'll check it out anyway, i'll tell you how to improve it once i have.

Honestly I hope you are kidding. If not, read below:

First of all, the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover" really comes to mind here. You are assuming it is a bad level from some arbitrary idea that has no foundation whatsoever. Jackofcourse has consistently made levels that far exceed the creations of the average creator, and this level is no different. If you had read through this thread, you would have seen glowing remarks from every person who has posted in it. And as for you "telling him how to improve it", why don't you save your "constructive criticism" for after you have played the level? I don't mean to be harsh, but there is no reason for this type of negative tone here.		2009-09-17 20:02:00

Author:
BSprague
Posts: 2325

Honestly I hope you are kidding. If not, read below:

First of all, the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover" really comes to mind here. You are assuming it is a bad level from some arbitrary idea that has no foundation whatsoever. Jackofcourse has consistently made levels that far exceed the creations of the average creator, and this level is no different. If you had read through this thread, you would have seen glowing remarks from every person who has posted in it. And as for you "telling him how to improve it", why don't you save your "constructive criticism" for after you have played the level? I don't mean to be harsh, but there is no reason for this type of negative tone here.

True dat sir! :kz:		2009-09-17 20:12:00

Author:
iGotFancyPants
Posts: 1355

Honestly I hope you are kidding. If not, read below:

First of all, the phrase "Don't judge a book by it's cover" really comes to mind here. You are assuming it is a bad level from some arbitrary idea that has no foundation whatsoever. Jackofcourse has consistently made levels that far exceed the creations of the average creator, and this level is no different. If you had read through this thread, you would have seen glowing remarks from every person who has posted in it. And as for you "telling him how to improve it", why don't you save your "constructive criticism" for after you have played the level? I don't mean to be harsh, but there is no reason for this type of negative tone here.

Ha ha, i wanted to see how long it would take to get a reply Pretty fast it would seem!
I love all of his levels, from the looks of it this could be my favourite, can't wait to play it! And even if i thought it looked bad i wouldn't actually say it, im not an a******. lol You're da man jack!		2009-09-17 20:16:00

Author:
anpostteller
Posts: 16

Ha ha, i wanted to see how long it would take to get a reply Pretty fast it would seem!
I love all of his levels, from the looks of it this could be my favourite, can't wait to play it! And even if i thought it looked bad i wouldn't actually say it, im not an a******. lol You're da man jack!

That's better :blush:		2009-09-17 20:19:00

Author:
iGotFancyPants
Posts: 1355

That's better :blush:

Ya, lol, maybe i should delete my comment and see what other replies i get, i got a good laugh out of that!		2009-09-17 20:26:00

Author:
anpostteller
Posts: 16

I was actually hoping you were being serious and was going to come back with loads of things that you thought were wrong with it...that would have been an interesting read! haha

Hope you liked it anyhow! 		2009-09-17 20:58:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

I was actually hoping you were being serious and was going to come back with loads of things that you thought were wrong with it...that would have been an interesting read! haha

Hope you liked it anyhow!

Oh, well i'll still tell you what i thought, if i find something wrong (which is unlikely) i'll be sure to give you my opinion on how to fix it, though you probably dont need any help from me! 		2009-09-17 21:24:00

Author:
anpostteller
Posts: 16

I really enjoyed the multi purpose platforming elements and mechanics of this level. Making charaters out of the scoreboards was also a great touch.

I wasnt too sure about the visual style though. It looked a lot like your other levels (which i really like aesthically) but less detailed and with a colour filter enabled.

I gave this a 5 star and hearted. good job 		2009-09-17 23:01:00

Author:
SteveBigGuns
Posts: 423

great job it kinda reminded me of simplexity by rayvolution ...

you remind me of him... jk i know how much you hate that

:star::star::star::star::star: and a heart		2009-09-17 23:24:00

Author:
TheMonkeyBlade
Posts: 687

Thanks for all the feedback so far. Really appreciated. I'm probably more eager to see the reaction of this one than the others as it is so different.2009-09-18 14:35:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Amazing. The 'boss' scoreboard at the end looked a bit wimpish though(maybe its intended?). Instead of the custom arms maybe use the white muscly arms you used on the small scoreboards? You could make them flail around with some invisible chains attached to them.2009-09-18 14:57:00

Author:
Unknown User

I enjoyed this a lot, the whole vibe is unusual and slightly surreal. The multi-use platforms are very clever, nice work there.

Probably my favourite bit is the two arms-aloft scoreboards jigging around in the background - I'd have liked to have had a few more thwarted attempts at reaching the scoreboard during the level, the one that bounced you away was a neat idea, you could have mined that angle a wee bit more for some extra comedy platforming!		2009-09-18 17:53:00

Author:
julesyjules
Posts: 1156

Yeah I thought of having a few more sections where you get oh so close to it and then it just flew off etc. The reason I didn't do it in the end is because the story element was pretty much just a joke and a dig at people who want me levels to have story. If I had had the scoreboard kept running off, it meant I would have had to have the NCP guy keep popping up talking a lot more.

Even though there is a 'story' in it, I didn't want it at any stage to detract from the usual platforming that my levels are full of.

Thanks for playing Glad you liked it!		2009-09-18 17:59:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

My feedback is over on the workshop mate.2009-09-18 19:19:00

Author:
KQuinn94Z
Posts: 1758

Played through this the other day and it's a cute idea for a level. Really liked a few things:
+ Loved the flip platform mechanics
+ Nice use of the layers
+ Clean design and neat shapes
+ The idea of the story is funny

That said - there's a lot of aspects of the level that I'm not so keen on:

- color scheme is so dark. The black and white is cool but when it's pared with that dark brown the whole level feels heavy and a bit depressing imo. I'm wondering if accenting it with a brighter color or different material would have made it more friendly feeling.
- The story, while cute and I know people have been bugging you for a story, felt very forced and it almost was like - "ok, ya want a story, here's your story. And while telling the story I'm going to mock story levels" Not that extreme of course but there's a hint of sarcasm I'm picking up in it. I might be misreading it completely but I just didn't think your heart was in it.
- Lighting is pretty flat - just my preference for more dramatic lighting
- Hardly any sound fx. You have them on major parts of the level but when things move or you jump there's no sound... it's a bit unnatural feeling.

I'm a big fan of your work so I don't want you to think I hate the level because I don't. It just didn't have that spark you bring to level design that I'm used to seeing. I gave it 5 stars.		2009-09-18 19:39:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Played through this the other day and it's a cute idea for a level. Really liked a few things:
+ Loved the flip platform mechanics
+ Nice use of the layers
+ Clean design and neat shapes
+ The idea of the story is funny

That said - there's a lot of aspects of the level that I'm not so keen on:

- color scheme is so dark. The black and white is cool but when it's pared with that dark brown the whole level feels heavy and a bit depressing imo. I'm wondering if accenting it with a brighter color or different material would have made it more friendly feeling.
- The story, while cute and I know people have been bugging you for a story, felt very forced and it almost was like - "ok, ya want a story, here's your story. And while telling the story I'm going to mock story levels" Not that extreme of course but there's a hint of sarcasm I'm picking up in it. I might be misreading it completely but I just didn't think your heart was in it.
- Lighting is pretty flat - just my preference for more dramatic lighting
- Hardly any sound fx. You have them on major parts of the level but when things move or you jump there's no sound... it's a bit unnatural feeling.

I'm a big fan of your work so I don't want you to think I hate the level because I don't. It just didn't have that spark you bring to level design that I'm used to seeing. I gave it 5 stars.

Thanks for your feedback. I knew the level as a whole would not be to some peoples taste and just hoped that they could appreciate it even if it wasn't there thing. So thank you for that

I understand what you mean about how you thought it was depressing. I intended the level to feel very dark and brooding. I actually had it as quite a bright orange colour at the start instead of the brown but it eventually wore off on me. I used the sponge as the 'out there' material in it. That was actually one of the first things that inspired me to continue, I had made the opening scene with the black brown and white and then added that sponge material and it just kind of stood out and I really liked it.

I also know what you mean about the sounds. Usually my levels are full of them for the tiniest thing but no matter what I did here it didn't seem to fit and I preferred it with being quite eerie and silent. You said it feels a bit unnatural but that is partly the feeling I was going for. I wanted it to feel a little surreal and dream like. Having sounds for doors opening etc just kind of took away from that.

As for the story. The whole purpose of it was to have a dig at the people who said my levels need a story. It wasn't that I was trying to satisfy them by adding a story in any way.

I would say it's more of an 'anti story' if anything. The 'story' is basically that you have to get to the scoreboard and stand on it...

While it's no secret that I don't really like story-heavy levels, by no means does that mean my heart wasn't in this one. I very much doubt I will ever do a story again and the only reason I did this one was because I thought up the little plot and thought it would be quite a funny thing to do. Saying that, because of it's purpose and the satire that I was trying to get across I enjoyed it very much.

Thanks again, and I appreciate your honest feedback a great deal! 		2009-09-18 20:19:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Havn't played yet, just turned off system, sounds rubbish, would never play...

Just joking, sounds AWSOMELY AWSOMEIST EPICLY EPICIST level eva, in the history of levels. WHOA!

I'd reset my system 2500 times to get 2 play this level. 		2009-09-18 20:46:00

Author:
ILikeLBP123
Posts: 9

Sorry the feedback has taken so long, I played the level days ago and have just gotten round to leaving you some

I thought the level was great, I loved the platforming and all the mechanics you used. You really have a flair for intuitive sections, and some of the puzzles were spot on. Its excellent how the most of the level moves under your control in some way, its a joy to watch.

As always, the level looks great, although I actually prefer your materials to show, you always have a great choice when you use them, although its no bad thing to do something different once in a while. And great job on the story

***** and hearted		2009-09-19 11:10:00

Author:
GruntosUK
Posts: 1754

Havn't played yet, just turned off system, sounds rubbish, would never play...

Just joking, sounds AWSOMELY AWSOMEIST EPICLY EPICIST level eva, in the history of levels. WHOA!

I'd reset my system 2500 times to get 2 play this level.

Sorry buddy, but i beat you to it, only i didn't say it was a joke until i got some replies

Well i played it yesterday jack.... and... well... lets just say i didn't like it as much as i thouht i would Sorry
It's not bad, in fact its quite good.

+ I loved the use of colours, very stylish.
+ I also liked all the physics based obstacles.
+ I found the story very funny too, if people didn't realise it was a joke then thats their problem.

But...

- The sound, yes i have seen all of the comments, but i think the music and lack of sound effects really brings the level down, it made it feel boring and depressing for me, which is fine but this atmosphere doesn't go well with the story and obstacles. Probably just me...
- The gameplay is a bit repetitive and its alot like your other levels.
- The camera. This is something that isn't down to opinnion, like many other great levels the camera is bad, for some reason people dont seem to put much effort into the camera work. It jerks around alot when you are moving from one set camera angle to another, there are alot of camera angles so this happens way too much, you might jump and end up going into another camera zone for a second before you land back in the first one. You should use more angles that follow the player and pay more attention to where the camera zones meet. Most creaters need to improve the camera.

Sorry Im not trying to find all the bad things, im just giving my opinion, i still gave it :star::star::star::star:
You're an excellent creator, one of the best. 		2009-09-19 13:45:00

Author:
anpostteller
Posts: 16

Sorry buddy, but i beat you to it, only i didn't say it was a joke until i got some replies

Well i played it yesterday jack.... and... well... lets just say i didn't like it as much as i thouht i would Sorry
It's not bad, in fact its quite good.

+ I loved the use of colours, very stylish.
+ I also liked all the physics based obstacles.
+ I found the story very funny too, if people didn't realise it was a joke then thats their problem.

But...

- The sound, yes i have seen all of the comments, but i think the music and lack of sound effects really brings the level down, it made it feel boring and depressing for me, which is fine but this atmosphere doesn't go well with the story and obstacles. Probably just me...
- The gameplay is a bit repetitive and its alot like your other levels.
- The camera. This is something that isn't down to opinnion, like many other great levels the camera is bad, for some reason people dont seem to put much effort into the camera work. It jerks around alot when you are moving from one set camera angle to another, there are alot of camera angles so this happens way too much, you might jump and end up going into another camera zone for a second before you land back in the first one. You should use more angles that follow the player and pay more attention to where the camera zones meet. Most creaters need to improve the camera.

Sorry Im not trying to find all the bad things, im just giving my opinion, i still gave it :star::star::star::star:
You're an excellent creator, one of the best.

Thank you for the feedback.

The level is meant to have a brooding and dark feel to it. That doesn't necessarily mean that it has to feel depressing and boring. It is exactly as I intended it so I can't really do more than that, I've said quite a few times in this that I knew the level style would be a bit hit and miss with some people, and I was just hoping they could appreciate it for what it is regardless of whether they personally liked it.

I'm very intrigued by your comment that the gameplay is a lot like my other levels. This is the one level that is actually quite different. Examples of which parts you felt where the same?

As for repetitive, it was a conscious decision not to include so many different ideas in this level. Sometimes a level can feel a little all over the place if you use too many. If you look at the story mode levels in a lot of them they have a set idea of it and just expand and work around that particular gameplay element. That is what I did here with the platforms that you move around on the bolts and can use both ways. The only thing that I used more than once in the exact same way was the moving stairs and even then I only used them twice.

The camera angles, I do think about them a lot, and they are fixed in a lot of positions because that's what fits the level best, both in terms of visuals and game play. Cameras are something I play around with a lot and see what feels best. It would seem you prefer the camera to follow you around more but in some cases it just isn't an option. Laying the 3 blocks to jump over for example, or the ending with the platform that you have to spin around to get past it. These along with a few other parts just don't work right if you have player tracking on. I understand your point with it and the way it can jump around depending on what you're doing but the way I have it now is personally how I feel fits best both in terms of visuals and gameplay.

Thanks a lot for your honest feedback! 		2009-09-19 17:04:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Hi Jack, sorry for the late feedback,
well... I'm just one more fan of your work, so I really enjoied every step in this level.
I appreciate your will of making something new/different of your previous levels, but (don't take it bad) I could recognize a "Jack's-made" level even if you fit 5000 stickers in it. But, that's probably why I liked this level that much.

Indeed this level is different, but it's not a "U turn" in your stile. You've made of "switch-that-makes-a-platform-mechanism-work" your own hallmark. And this is good, and I don't want you to change you're stile!!

Anyway... probably not my prefered level of your collection, but still a great job again. Congrats Jack!		2009-09-20 21:45:00

Author:
poms
Posts: 383

Hi Jack, sorry for the late feedback,
well... I'm just one more fan of your work, so I really enjoied every step in this level.
I appreciate your will of making something new/different of your previous levels, but (don't take it bad) I could recognize a "Jack's-made" level even if you fit 5000 stickers in it. But, that's probably why I liked this level that much.

Indeed this level is different, but it's not a "U turn" in your stile. You've made of "switch-that-makes-a-platform-mechanism-work" your own hallmark. And this is good, and I don't want you to change you're stile!!

Anyway... probably not my prefered level of your collection, but still a great job again. Congrats Jack!

Thanks Yeah I didn't want to make a level that is totally unrecognisable and I'm sure that this level still 'feels' like one of mine. I just wanted to do something that little bit different. Both in terms of visuals and gameplay.

Thanks a lot for your feedback! 		2009-09-20 22:03:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Played it this weekend, it was good fun, nice and smooth play. Personally, I liked the aesthetics, though I wouldn't have called it brooding. I'd call it... clean, unemotional, abstract.

It's funny though, you kind of disproved your point. The story added some humour, which means tacking a story on does work after all. 		2009-09-21 15:56:00

Author:
Rogar
Posts: 2284

Played it this weekend, it was good fun, nice and smooth play. Personally, I liked the aesthetics, though I wouldn't have called it brooding. I'd call it... clean, unemotional, abstract.

It's funny though, you kind of disproved your point. The story added some humour, which means tacking a story on does work after all.

Thank you very much for the feedback

I think you may have misunderstood my point slightly. I never meant it as in platforming levels shouldn't have stories, my point was merely that I don't believe they lose anything by not having a story like some people were suggesting. The majority of stories are also far too text heavy and don't really add anything to the experience too. If done right they can be a great addition, but that's not to say a level isn't as good just because it doesn't have one.

I think this worked well because of the humour and the whole reason behind the story really.

My point was that people were saying that my levels weren't 'complete' or the 'full package' because they lacked a story. Whereas I disagree, I don't think a level needs a story to be 'complete'.

Thanks again for your feedback 		2009-09-21 16:04:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Played this today finally, and I agree with a lot of antposteller's points.
I thought it was a fantastic level, but at the same time it felt a little lacking to me.

I agree that something about the atmosphere just lost me about halfway through the level. I would fiddle around with music and sound effects a bit more to see if you can give it a bit more to grab the attention.

I really liked the style. It kept true to your own unique, quality, style but at the same time felt more unique and inspired.

Epic story!

The ending for me was kinda outta nowhere. I did not expect it to end there whatsoever - it felt to me like "oh, it's the end? Okay, great level!" Instead of "Wow, what an ending! That level was incredible!"
I understand the story was meant to be a bit random, but the ending was just a bit too abrupt for me.

As usual, great little platforming contraptions! I think you need to start mixing things up a bit more and bring in some new ideas.

I gave the level 4 stars and a heart.

Anyways, I went very harsh on this review, but that's my honest opinion. I'm a huge fan of your levels, and I loved this one as well and thought it was great. But it just didn't leave me with that great feeling I usually get at the end of your levels of having just played something utterly fantastic.		2009-09-22 01:14:00

Author:
hilightnotes
Posts: 1230

Thanks for your feedback.

I'm still intrigued with antposteller's comment that the platforming felt too much like my other levels, and then you saying something similar.

I'm not really understanding this at all. There isn't really any of the crazy over engineered platforms in this level. Everything is quite simple and straight forward and a lot of the things (the spinning stairs etc) are done using just bolts so are basically just gravity/physics based. This was something I did intentionally to differ the gameplay from my previous levels. I'd be interested in hearing what parts you thought were the same?		2009-09-22 01:36:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

I guess what it comes down to is that the platforming seems very trivial. But.. not really. I mean, you have a unique edge to your platforming, but it is always the same unique edge. It's often that same clear-cut platforming you have: push button, activate platforms to move where you need to access them, progress. Rinse and repeat.
I by no means mean to say that you reuse the same ideas over and over again, and it doesn't quite get boring. But it does begin to feel a bit stale to me.
Take also, for example, the section where you have to pass a row of spikes by going up to, moving around the little machine, pressing the button, and plopping out a platform. You've done it before, we've done it before, and while it's neat and effective, it doesn't feel new.

I think for your next level, you should not think of a platform as a platform when creating it. Think of the environment as a platform, and how your unique environment molds itself to create your platforms - what unique properties does your environment have, that creates a unique experience when crossing it?

I'm going to point you to a new, very difficult, level. If you can cope with the insane difficulty level, you'll find in this level he creates some very interesting platforming.


Anyways, I don't want you or anyone else to get the impression after reading my comments that this isn't an amazing level. It is. But it just wasn't that 'amazing I]new[/I] experience' I think you might have been hoping to bring to the table, set uniquely apart from your other levels.		2009-09-22 01:44:00

Author:
hilightnotes
Posts: 1230

I think I'm going to disagree with highlightnotes. I mean, there are very obvious similarities between each of your levels and I would probably be able to determine that your levels were made by the same person if I didn't know who the author was. However, I never felt that any ideas were recycled. The only thing I saw that you tend to use is complex "unfoldings" of the environment, but even that is varied enough that it never really felt stale to me.2009-09-22 01:51:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

Yeah... Really, I don't think the gameplay was a problem in this level, but I could see it getting stale by the next one if it isn't shaken up a bit.

However, I still definitely stand by my opinion that I just felt something began to feel lacking as I got through the level, and especially the ending. I would have to play it again to pinpoint it, but I'm guessing that it was largely the sound/music choice. And the abrupt ending.		2009-09-22 01:56:00

Author:
hilightnotes
Posts: 1230

I played this one yesterday and you made me grin all the time while playing!

This is just an amazing level to me, and like I wrote in your level-comments online: this one doesn't need eye-catching visuals, gigantic sound-effects or some stuff like this: the plattforming-elements are the best that we can find in a custom level. More than that: MM should have used this level to show the power of the games physic-engine: it is so unique in style (i love the simplicity because I was more focused on what's happening with the game's elements), the gameplay is incredible, the elements of the plattforming are just amazing and the story - oh boy: it's so cute and nice to bring up THE SCOREBOARD as some sort of opponent - that's so cool and fresh.

What I love the most are the constructions where a button activates a catapult to elevate a piece of wood to push a bridge to the right direction - I've seen such elements in a different way in your Tribal Ruins (what I've played 2 weeks ago) and I was totally impressed by this great physics that you're using there. Or such the great idea to swing down on a latex-stripe do flip the pillow to the button above - wow! I'm also totally impressed by the guy that leads us through this level - his look is just amazing - the idea to use a wobbling rope as a mouth: LOL - brilliant ?:?

I noticed one thing that maybee has been unrecognized by you right now:
(I didn't read the whole thread, so maybee someone has mentioned it already - so sorry for double-posting)

- the mag-key-switch at the last lift is visible (I think this wasn't planned ^^)


So to make it short: this level is one of the best levels that I've played right now - and that's a "pretty simple" observation - I grinned throughout the whole level while enjoying the world that you build.

It's a pitty that this level is just 4stared online - I can't see any reason to give a lower score than 5stars.

:star::star::star::star::star: and of course a Heart (author heart has been given immediately after playing tribal ruins a few weeks ago! :-)

Amazing work jackofcourse!!! I will be a fan for all of my life! Amen!

Greets and thanks for sharing this jewel to the community.

Neo

ps: sorry for my bad english - I hope it's understandable :-)
ps2: and like Cartman wrotes above: yes indeed: your style is so unique that it would have clear to me taht it HAS to be a jackofcourse level if I wouldn't have known the creator before playing it.		2009-09-22 06:40:00

Author:
(___NEO___)
Posts: 206

Felt very much like your other levels, solve a puzzle move onto the next section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section... You see how repetive it can get? I'm a fan of your levels but they're starting to all feel the same. They're great levels, but they seem like they could all be the same one just with different materials.

-Didnt like the look of the level, especially the material you used.
-I think you should have picked a different song.
-Level could have used more decoration instead of just the rectangles.

+I thought the use of the scoreboards as creatures was genius!
+gameplay always fun and especially fun to get all the point combos.
+nice puzzles.

Another good level Jack! 4 Stars and a heart. =)		2009-09-22 07:02:00

Author:
TheFirstAvenger
Posts: 787

Felt very much like your other levels, solve a puzzle move onto the next section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section, solve a puzzle move onto another section... You see how repetive it can get? I'm a fan of your levels but they're starting to all feel the same. They're great levels, but they seem like they could all be the same one just with different materials.

That what you just described is pretty much every game ever created. You complete an objective, then progress to the next part. That's just how games work so I'm not quite sure what you mean.

I may just be seeing things differently than a lot of people so I think I need it explaining to me.

In my opinion the gameplay in this one differs from my other levels, so I think you may be commenting on something other aspect that I'm not really sure of.

Also, for some reason my levels get picked up on being the same quite a lot. This has intrigued me after thinking about it last night.

Take Gruntos' levels for example (if you read this gruntos by no means am I having a go it's just the best way I could think to explain it) ...

All his levels are built around backtracking, you go somewhere, complete an objective, that will open up a new area back where you were, you can then pull a switch or go to a new area and you progress through it like that.

Now this gameplay element is built throughout every level, yet I've never seen a comment saying that he should try and do something different, even though it is essentially the same idea in all the levels. (Again, I love his levels and not having a go, it's just the best example I could think of).

What makes it so that my levels seem so similar even when like this level, the mechanics are totally different?

That is a genuine question by the way and not just trying to make a point. I am truly interested how people perceive the two elements so differently.		2009-09-22 15:57:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

Jack, I've played all your levels and I'd say don't worry about it. Of course your levels will have similarities, because that's your style as a creator! And I agree with what you said, "That what you just described is pretty much every game ever created." I think what he's trying to say is that you're in one area, do something, then you go to the next. Where as some levels are more open ended. But this is LBP - going from one area to another is a major part of the game, and a particular style that you do very well.

With that said, I played your level the other day. Here are a few initial thoughts:

Pros:
- It's my favorite level you've created
- I love the color scheme (that must have taken a ton of stickers)
- The lighting was done well .. and I particularly liked the spot lights, even though they weren't needed, they enhanced the levels' quirky feel
- I liked that it was original .. I've never seen anyone use the you know what like that (not sure if I need to worry about spoilers anymore?)
- The story was fun, and at times hilarious .. oh, and for some reason it's memorable! I think that may be due to the simplicity of it.
- I found no bugs.. very solid level
- I didn't get frustrated at all
- Unlike some people, I expected that explosion because I could see the two arrows counting down - I also understood that puzzle right away (3X), but I think that's because you've done something similar? Am I right? It was either you or someone else that did a similar puzzle
- I got a top ten score! I'm not sure how the others above me got a better score though? Maybe there are secret areas that I didn't find?

Cons:
- I honestly can't think of any - everything was done very well

Overall:
5 :star:'s
Tag: Brilliant (I think?)
Hearted		2009-09-22 16:13:00

Author:
Powershifter
Posts: 668

That what you just described is pretty much every game ever created. You complete an objective, then progress to the next part. That's just how games work so I'm not quite sure what you mean.

I may just be seeing things differently than a lot of people so I think I need it explaining to me.

In my opinion the gameplay in this one differs from my other levels, so I think you may be commenting on something other aspect that I'm not really sure of.

Also, for some reason my levels get picked up on being the same quite a lot. This has intrigued me after thinking about it last night.

Take Gruntos' levels for example (if you read this gruntos by no means am I having a go it's just the best way I could think to explain it) ...

All his levels are built around backtracking, you go somewhere, complete an objective, that will open up a new area back where you were, you can then pull a switch or go to a new area and you progress through it like that.

Now this gameplay element is built throughout every level, yet I've never seen a comment saying that he should try and do something different, even though it is essentially the same idea in all the levels. (Again, I love his levels and not having a go, it's just the best example I could think of).

What makes it so that my levels seem so similar even when like this level, the mechanics are totally different?

That is a genuine question by the way and not just trying to make a point. I am truly interested how people perceive the two elements so differently.

Hmm... Well that sure is a great question, I'm sure others will have a different answer but after thinking about it here is mine:


It's probably because his levels come with the "whole package." And by that I mean his levels include a story, characters, boss battles, etc.. Yours on the other hand, are alot more simpler so it might be alot easier to criticize you than him.		2009-09-23 06:57:00

Author:
TheFirstAvenger
Posts: 787

Another great level with pure genious mechanic.
The tree branches with the spring pistons, the bomb section, everything was really cool and well done!
Again a 5 stars.		2009-09-26 21:26:00

Author:
OmegaSlayer
Posts: 5112

Video is now online

A big thanks to Chimpanzee once again for his fantastic recording!

YouTube - LittleBigPlanet | Pretty Simple by jackofcourse | Gameplay (HD)		2009-10-01 20:55:00

Author:
jackofcourse
Posts: 1494

I played this level weeks ago but don't think that i posted about it.

'twas epic, seriously every second was awesome
great visuals
great obsticles
great puzzles

this was a joy to play 5:star: but really should be more

PS is was great because i had a matching (color) sack outfit at the time 		2009-10-02 01:06:00

Author:
springs86
Posts: 785

lol okay it turned out not to be too late XD okay i'll be writin stuff down whilst im playing, i've already playe it once but i just wanted to refresh my memory okay

I remember encountering this quite a few times through the level actually and at dirst wondering how on earth you do it and then realised it was the buttons were on one shot at you had two blocks with pistons on the fliper setting XD can't believe me how long it took to figure it out i didn't even notice the blocks and pistons until about the fourth time i did it XD okay so that was a good thing i liked

oh right now for a con and i remember thinking this the first time i played through, not a big thing but i really disliked the way the glass randomly disappeared from those tunnels, perhaps you could use a thin layer attatched to a piston and then have it slide down between layers, i dunno lol

I also love how everything fits together so nicely when it falls its amazing really!

I would prefer a grab switch block coming down rather than the lift going up for some reason sorry if im being unreasonably picky XD

I remember being a bit confused with the next bit first time around as i thought it meant it was a 3 player section but soon realised i was stupid and that it was genious XD the piston set to one shot pushing down gives a feel that it is really emmited and pushed outa somewhere i dunno that's just me.

Like the 'Cause and Effect-esque' think going on on the next section

Remember being slightly confused what to do with that little moving block with the explosives inside first time around but when i figured it out it was awesome

lol reminded me of the fact that i actual laugh when playing this level, loved the 'minions' as you call them, that bit was funny. Also the scientist character has some good lines!

A nice varient on the flipper switch platform thing here

Liked the random scream of the scoreboard before being given another lecture XD

Plus a really good way to finish off the level. I remember chuckling the first time I played it and I did this time as well. Overall the level was well crafted and layed out pretty evenly although there was a few times where nothing seemed to be of interest. A rated it 5 stars, another amazing level Also, i just noticed you've put a link to a youtube video on here, how on earth do you get 'ChimpanzeePS3' (lol) to tape your levels?! It would be amazing if I had video footage to put up here! Did you just ask him or is it some type of secret club if so put in a good word for me (joking) it would be great to have a vid to display on youtube though! i tried to comment on his page aksing him but to no avail oh well. thanks again for playing my level, this is my first F4F so i probably have overdone it lol		2009-10-29 00:12:00

Author:
Hallm3
Posts: 252


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