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Dragons of Myth: Egypt SPOTLIGHTED!

Archive: 61 posts

Dragons of Myth: EgyptMorgana25
http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_9-10.jpgMake your way through the desert to the pyramid of the keeper of myth. Face the dangers of the pyramid and travel to the underworld to do battle with Apophis the serpent dragon. Many secrets to find and a winners scoreboard and a losing scoreboard. Hope you like it!
all

awesome trailer by Scoutsboo! Thanks!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNt6k50g3rI

I'd like to think that the releasing of a level without water, especially one that takes place in a desert is more ironic than bad planning on my part

Still, dry as it is I think it's pretty cool and hope you enjoy it.

It's taken 3 months to put together. Mostly because of I couldn't get time to work on it a lot.

I want to make sure to mention all the great people who gave me their time, expertise and support. Comphermc for help with the logic and for giving me some inside expertise for how the boss track would work. To rtm23 for his multiple stop piston tutorial and to the whole crew of the logic pack (who's work is featured in a few areas). To claptonfann for his desire to help, his logic work and never ending desire to learn. To Joey (xtrophx) for countless run throughs, some cool suggestions and his patience while I spent too much time in create mode. Lastly and certainly not least to jwwphotos

For letting me monopolize his evenings for far too long, for asking more than anyone should for help with logic stuff, for putting up with my frustrations and questions and generally being awesome! Thank you guys so much!

Feedback is always appreciated and as always thanks to LBPC for all the support!

some pics

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto-13.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_1-14.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_10-9.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_11-9.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_12-7.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_13-7.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_14-7.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_15-6.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_16-6.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_17-6.jpg

http://i629.photobucket.com/albums/uu15/Morgana25_photos/APhoto_19-4.jpg

2010-01-03 20:08:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Had totally forgot about this, will play asap

2010-01-03 20:21:00

Author:
Littlebigdude805

Posts: 1924

Awesome.

I've been waiting for this series to start up!

I'd like to think that the releasing of a level without water, especially one that takes place in a desert is more ironic than bad planning on my part

Leviathan ... ...

2010-01-03 21:14:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

Had fun with this earlier.

It has some of your lovely trademark visuals, a good balance of puzzles and platforming, a great opening sequence and a dragon to die for!

The search for Ankhs added replay value - I rushed through a bit, so I only found 4 or 5 - and the dragon chase at the end was suitably dramatic and well orchestrated. (Is it just me, or is the music from the PotC bloody awesome?!!).

Very well done. I remember you mentioning this idea a few months back, and it was great to finally play it.

Problems? Nope, not many at all. In places, the level is a little dark, but that is only an observation not a criticism.

When I was on the barge being chased by the mighty dragon, a fireball dropped and broke the grab switch that was firing plasma. I'm not sure whether this was meant to happen, or whether it was just a freak thing, but I grabbed the other one and continued okay.

Very good level - I hope there're more.

2010-01-03 21:41:00

Author:
MrsSpookyBuz

Posts: 1492

I am probably a bit biased for seeing this one grow up all the way from the beginning sandstorm, but I think this is your best level yet!!

I loved all the lighting, colors and decorations. ..yup, another freaking beautiful as everything Morgana level. This one has a wonderful blend of exploration, platforming, as well as the expected trademarked eye candy.

If I had to nitpick, there is some frame drop later in the level around the spinny things and still possibly a touch around the moving platforms. However, I figure making that big of a trip to combat flying mythology based, corner edited, decorated cardboard is well worth it.

...and thanks so much for the wonderful compliment and thanks. You are most welcome for the help!! It was fun being a part of the experience, but kinda glad you got it done so I can get back to my level !!! LOL!!

5 stars and a heart.

2010-01-03 23:10:00

Author:
jwwphotos

Posts: 11383

This is DEFINATELY your best work yet. Beautiful, fun, mysterious... it really felt fresh and unique. The map and graphics were outstanding!

I would like to mention the boss for a moment.

The first time I played I struggled with how to aim the gun a bit, and when I fired I had no idea which part of the dragon I was supposed to fire at, and I couldn't discern any specific thing that happened that let me know I was hitting him. I died...

The 2nd time I played it I grabbed the sponge and got under it, and just stayed that way through the entire battle. So, the entire battle ended up being me holding the grab button and snuggling under the sponge.

Now, don't get me wrong - the dragon was beautiful and it was very cool to watch, but I felt players could really get confused in this area.

My initial suggestion for the boss (keeping in mind I'm not totally clear on the reason for its design and may be missing something) would be to either just pre-aim the gun and have the player grab it for as long as possible, then run away - instead of having a slightly clumsy aiming experience. Or, have a way to aim the gun using a 3 way switch and then grab. Or, have some really obvious effect that happens when you successfully hit the dragon.

I would just hate for this masterpiece to get frustrating tags because a player felt they lost the battle cheaply near the end - the kiddies may not appreciate the work that went into it.

I gave it 5 stars and a heart - with a beautiful tag.

2010-01-04 00:01:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

Oooooh, a new morgana level and not in the chroma stones series (too bad that ended)

Yeah, it's epic.

Five stars and a heart. I'm too tired for more feedback.

2010-01-04 00:13:00

Author:
Coxy224

Posts: 2645

Glad I could contribute to your latest and greatest, Morgy. I wonder which mythology we'll have an adventure in for the next dragon?

2010-01-04 00:39:00

Author:
claptonfann

Posts: 228

I would like to mention the boss for a moment.

The first time I played I struggled with how to aim the gun a bit, and when I fired I had no idea which part of the dragon I was supposed to fire at, and I couldn't discern any specific thing that happened that let me know I was hitting him. I died...

The 2nd time I played it I grabbed the sponge and got under it, and just stayed that way through the entire battle. So, the entire battle ended up being me holding the grab button and snuggling under the sponge.

Now, don't get me wrong - the dragon was beautiful and it was very cool to watch, but I felt players could really get confused in this area.

My initial suggestion for the boss (keeping in mind I'm not totally clear on the reason for its design and may be missing something) would be to either just pre-aim the gun and have the player grab it for as long as possible, then run away - instead of having a slightly clumsy aiming experience. Or, have a way to aim the gun using a 3 way switch and then grab. Or, have some really obvious effect that happens when you successfully hit the dragon.

I would just hate for this masterpiece to get frustrating tags because a player felt they lost the battle cheaply near the end - the kiddies may not appreciate the work that went into it.

I totally hear you about the not clear where to aim part and that it can be a bit of a cake walk if you get under the handle. Initially I set it up as simply a keep him at bay kind of encounter where you just shot at him and he slowed up a bit. Essentially that's still what's happening in the level now but we added the dragon attack late in the game. There is actually an audio cue that says your hitting him but no visual feedback. I'd like to put one in but am unsure at this point how I'd manage it. The gun was in a locked position at an earlier design phase too but I thought it was way too easy to just grab it and didn't seem challenging at all. Now that the fire is in I suppose the challenge would come from avoiding the fire then getting back to to the suppression gun.

Anyone have a suggestion as to how to visually indicate he's being hit that won't affect the movement or design of the dragon? Closest thought I've had is to put a paint switch on him and have him pulse when hit.... I'd love some suggestions though

Thanks everyone for playing it and giving it a good send off. It was a bit rocky at first... 2 stars to start. argh

It's holding at 4 now.

2010-01-04 00:39:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

I have to say I really was very impressed by this piece.

The moment I knew I loved it was when the cutscene began and the camera panned up to the stars. Absolutely brilliant.

I have to admit it, and I may very well be unpopular for saying so, but I wasn't really a big fan of the Chroma series. Don't get me wrong, it definitely found its target audience, I just wasn't in it.

This series though I'm entirely on board. In fact, if you don't announce the next dragon soon, I'm probably just going to bother you every week or so with the names of some great dragons that would contrast well with this first one ... and you don't want that, do you?

I cannot wait to even hear more about this series.

Also, is the boss not beatable? Do you always fail? Because I failed, but honestly, it made perfect sense that I would fail - so I began to wonder if I was doomed to failure. That's a big positive though, just for the record, as it's a far more interesting ending.

Fantastic.

2010-01-04 00:41:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

I have a suggestion for the visual indicator of a hit: Since the plasma balls from the cannon have mag keys on them, just hook up a corresponding mag switch to an effect on the dragon itself (preferably some kind of flash of light or something).

2010-01-04 00:42:00

Author:
claptonfann

Posts: 228

Anyone have a suggestion as to how to visually indicate he's being hit that won't affect the movement or design of the dragon? Closest thought I've had is to put a paint switch on him and have him pulse when hit.... I'd love some suggestions though

I think I had suggested awhile ago to make his eye pulse and maybe an impact sound... maybe the one of the ICO colossus sounds. ..or he could emit a weird blue glow of sorts when he recoils a bit. ..or all 3 !!

2010-01-04 00:45:00

Author:
jwwphotos

Posts: 11383

Also, is the boss not beatable? Do you always fail? Because I failed, but honestly, it made perfect sense that I would fail - so I began to wonder if I was doomed to failure. That's a big positive though, just for the record, as it's a far more interesting ending.

Fantastic.

Wow - thanks! Yea I didn't figure you for a Chroma Fan

It's all good. Different tastes is a good thing.

It is possible to beat the dragon (just not kill him.) It's a matter of keeping enough plasma shooting at his head to keep his speed from ramping up. There's an audio cue but no visual one yet... I'm working on that I think.

Glad you like it and as for the next dragon..... I was going to go for quetzequatl but he may have to wait for a Leviathan showdown... not sure yet

Stay tuned!

2010-01-04 00:56:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

For the effect when shooting the dragon... I'm not sure if you're using the front layer or not, but if you take rubber, sticker it white, embed a tiny white LED light in the middle and make it REALLY bright it looks like a bright flash. If you emit it and have it disappear really quickly it looks like a big impact. I used this technique for the impact explosions in the SMACU for Splat III. But, of course, it will only work if you have a layer to put it in.

2010-01-04 01:02:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

I think the front layer is open.... I'm going to take a look at that!

2010-01-04 01:09:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

I just played this is solo Morgana and I love it. Much more enjoyable than at 4am in the morning.
I love it, I also think its some of your best work. What I like is that you knew how to give that narrow corridor feeling of a pyramid and close environnement yet not making it boring or confusing. In many LBP it's wide open so this particularity was pleasing to me. The signs you grab for points is also a nice idea that compliment your level well. It gave me juuuust the right dose of will to explore around.

My only con for this level would be that it's possible to get stuck at many places and then you need to pop yourself. I could replay the level and note those places down if you're interested.

Great levels can't stop popping, the beginning of 2010 is absolutely fabulous and your level clearly is a part of that incredible beginning. I have one secret yet to find and score right under CCubbage. I will play this again for sure, as soon as I can breath a little from all those wonderful level popping everywhere.

:star::star::star::star::star: + heart

2010-01-04 01:11:00

Author:
RangerZero

Posts: 3901

I had the chance of playing it this morning and I think it's a great level. In my opinion the platforming and visuals shine the most, I also found the characters to be very detailed and refined. The little movie at the beginning was also very well made and helped introduce the story in a great way. The stickers and materials were also used very effectively.

5 Stared and Hearted.

2010-01-04 02:09:00

Author:
TheFirstAvenger

Posts: 787

Glad you like it and as for the next dragon.....

... *gasp* ...

I was going to go for quetzequatl...

... curses! Oh well, I can still dre ...

but he may have to wait for a Leviathan showdown

... *gasp* *gasp* ...

... not sure yet

Stay tuned!

... (stares at screen) ...

2010-01-04 02:19:00

Author:
Jagrevi

Posts: 1154

You had me at the sandstorm! @.@!!!!

This level is so incredibly gorgeous, beautiful, moody and mesmerizing. I've been waiting for this level with bated breath for a while now and I am simply amazed at what you've got here. I just loved the secret areas, the gameplay was splendid, the flow seamless and the dragon at the end was magnificent!

Not that I expected any less from a creator such as you, but you've really created a magical world here that only you could have done so perfectly - I guess your wand does things other than scary things?

Now, we must lock away all your new toys and put you back to work on the next installment!

Amazing.

2010-01-04 05:09:00

Author:
ScoutsBoo

Posts: 63

Hi, I played this level and I love it!!! The decoration is awesome, it really make you feel like you are in Egypt. The lighting effects are great too and I really like the story at the beginning. The dragon looks good and the combination of the ambient and the music is excellent. I also like the idea of having two different endings. At first I was a little confused in the dragon chase and I got the bad ending lol, but I got the good one on my second run. The idea of finding the Ankhs is fun and adds good replay value.

As a fan of ancient Egypt I have to say that this level rocks!!! I'm going to play your other levels too (I haven't played them because I'm new here) and will be waiting for your other projects

Have a nice day

2010-01-04 06:57:00

Author:
cronotrigguer

Posts: 12

I'm absolutely tickled that there's a great creator out there who is as fascinated with mythology as I am.

And as for the gameplay? Like buttah. Your lighting work keeps getting better...just as detailed as Chroma Stone, but a lot less slowdown.

I left you a present. The scarab lever room reminded me of Journey's Escape album cover...I hope that comes out in the picture bin for the level.

I didn't experience a lot of Sudden Crush Death, but I did break the cannon. The handle popped right off. Moving parts are a particular bane of mine, and the only advice I've ever gotten that work was from Ccubbage: the strength of the connected items dictates the strength of the connection.

I'm of a mind to support Ccubbage on this one: freeze the entire gun assembly in place. The player is already interacting by dodging incoming fire.

2010-01-04 14:19:00

Author:
coyote_blue

Posts: 422

Yeah, I would definately make a quick change to freeze the gun in place - this would only take a moment and could save you from poor ratings. Maybe then go back and do some other special effects when shooting the dragon, but freezing the gun would make it acceptable for now. Dodging the fire is still a great obstacle for that part - just make sure you don't allow the player to hide under the sponge.

2010-01-04 16:58:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

I'll take a look at it tonight. I'll fuse the gun to the ship and try and add some visual clue that he's being hit as well.

@ Coyote_blue - awesome pic - I noticed it yesterday. Made me laugh quite a bit.

2010-01-04 17:29:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Just got done playing it Morgana. Excellent level as always. I thought it was a little more claustrophobic and cramped than the Chromo levels, but thats a great thing, you really felt cramped and confined. Lighting was great as always, and the secret hunt was a nice addition.

The cutscene was superbly done, and really set the scene well. You've got a great start of a story here and I can't wait to see more.

I had the same problem with the dragon, I was'nt sure where to aim. I thought I was missing because the plasma balls go straight through the dragon (or am I dumb and I was missing lol?) The magic mouths were clear enough to me I only had to keep it at bay, but it definetly needs a visual indication in there (and stop the plasma balls if I'm not dumb).

Great start to what I'm sure will be a great series.

***** and hearted.

2010-01-04 22:34:00

Author:
GruntosUK

Posts: 1754

Fantastic level, Morgana! I loved it when I played it with you those few times, and loved it even more with this its nice coat of polish. The lighting was superb, I loved snooping around for secrets, and the claustrophobic feel was perfect. Nice work with the boss fight thing as well... see, you could do it all by yourself!

5 stars and a heart (which was inexplicably already there?)

2010-01-04 23:01:00

Author:
comphermc

Posts: 5338

Great Level, Morgan. I hope to see the next Dragons of Myth. (If there's a next one)

Completed this level all by myself.

2010-01-04 23:04:00

Author:
TheDerek

Posts: 15

Nice work with the boss fight thing as well... see, you could do it all by yourself!

Well..... jwwphotos is the brains behind a lot of that

but he was always cool with me fiddling around with it and adding stuff

I did build the track and got that timed though and rigged up the drop of the ship... that was fun

2010-01-04 23:16:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

This is a great level, the cut-scene story was really a nice touch and beautifully done. I was also impressed that you could pack that much stuff into a level, it's a good length with a lot of nice climbing about in nooks and crannies. Couple really minor nit-picks...I didn't like the way the ankh score bubbles were glued together...diffilcult to know how they'd fall over/messes up getting multipler...but definitely not worth changing. The other was I think at the 2nd arm, there's 2 blocks you slide...but you can only grab 1 side...I blocked the exit and had to pop...would be nice if you could grab both sides. I've noticed a lot of levels lately adding a bank of leds at the end showing secrets found...I have to say I'm a fan of this...it adds some nice replay value and I'm always surprised how much I missed the first time through. Great work, very deserving of 5 stars.

2010-01-05 01:11:00

Author:
fullofwin

Posts: 1214

Update: Made some modifications to the boss encounter.

+ decreased the life of the fire that drops on you but increased frequency from 5 to 3
+ locked down the gun and eliminated the "safe" zone from underneath the sponge
+ added paint sensor effect to the head of the dragon when hit
+ moved sound effect closer to player so it's louder when you hit

Also - I put another grab and blocked the left path so you can't get that block stuck anymore. Vortex warned me about it last night and I didn't get a chance to fix it until tonight

Thanks guys for the suggestions - hope you like the pacing better - it feels more dangerous now so I think that's a good thing!

2010-01-05 05:16:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Ah, the gun is fixed now...
Actually 13 hours ago the sponge broke on me and I couldn't aim anymnore, thus I got the bad ending.

Anyway, wonderful level, and you nailed perfectly the claustrophobic vibe.

2010-01-05 08:09:00

Author:
OmegaSlayer

Posts: 5112

I went in and played it again this morning - I definately think the boss fight is a major improvement. It's actually an easier fight, but it FEELS more dangerous - which is exactly what you want for this level. With the pacing in the rest of the level, this level is well-balanced for everyone.

2010-01-05 13:13:00

Author:
CCubbage

Posts: 4430

... I don't get to a thread like this in the first few hours...

Already a cool level with like all the feedback in the world... what's left to be said?

Beautiful. This level is your most beautiful to date. Ambitious. This level is your most ambitious level to date. Boss. I think he's just 'ducky' (and would have employed JWW's "eye pulse"... it was the first thing I thought of...)

The Story. AWWW-sunnnn!!!! This level plays huge... what with the secrets and the cutscenes...

Morgana, you were always a great creator, but it is clear OC is pushing you further and further along your LBPath... I am awestruck. How you managed to fit all those decorations? All The lighting? with such limited framerate loss... just enough of an ethereal feel...

You and Compher are really making it difficult for a creator like me to feel confident about releasing...

Great work... your best.

PS. Go to Mexico next and end it with an 'in-game' teaser... the build-up will be self-built and monumental for the showdown with Leviathan! (Not to mention give PotC some time to fall away.)

It is Mexico right?

2010-01-05 15:08:00

Author:
Gravel

Posts: 1308

APOPHIS HAS PREVAILED?! Oh well. Good level.

2010-01-06 00:34:00

Author:
BasketSnake

Posts: 2391

If you can keep hitting him long enough you'll get the winning board BasketSnake.... he doesn't have to win

EDIT: ScoutsBoo has graciously made a trailer video for the level. Even if you've played the level you should check out the vid. She did an AWESOME job... gives me goosebumps in places.

2010-01-06 05:40:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Just played it, and it's great as expected!

Beautiful visuals and lighting, great gameplay with original platforming and mechanism, and great story to go along with all that!

I loved the boss, just great looking, well animated and great use of sound... I really was scared

I also think that it's my favorite of yours!

Really great work!
:star::star::star::star::star: + heart

2010-01-08 01:22:00

Author:
dajdaj03

Posts: 1486

I really like lengthy levels and you didn't disappoint.I love the platforming and story.It was really pretty,too.

5/5 and hearted for sure!

2010-01-08 20:26:00

Author:
AbstractFlesh

Posts: 837

Morgana... I just realized that I never posted any comments in your thread! I was sure I had... but oh well... feeble is my old mind.

This is surely your most ambitious project yet, and a spectacular success, IMO. I've play tested it many times with you, so I knew playing it solo much of what I needed to do. When I showed it to my sons (playing with one, the other just watching) they were both awestruck. My oldest (who really doesn't like or play LBP, but has seen more of it than he'd probably like) said, "Wow, Morgana makes cool levels." High praise from a disinterested 17 yr old.

I am always in reverent awe of your color and light management, and this level is no exception. But your cutscene introduction is beautifully, cinematically crafted (as shown in your new trailer vid - one of the best level trailer vids I've seen BTW... nice job Scoutsboo!!).

The search for the ankhs and the body parts is brilliant, the gameplay and pacing is spot on, and the length and scope are impressive, to say the least. The boss is fantastic, and in the grand, artistic form that we've come to expect from you. My only complaint about the boss is that I've seen it in create mode - in full view - and that in-game camera angle just doesn't do it justice (it truly is beautiful folks!!).

Another excellent production, my friend. You're good. You're **** good.

:star::star::star::star::star:, hearted and tagged Beautiful.

2010-01-08 20:55:00

Author:
v0rtex

Posts: 1878

Ok so you gave me some...it's time to give it back!

So the first time I played it I had had A bad day, and when I came to the scarab with the 2 levers for some reason couldn't figure out what to do...DUH!

So I asked a friend to play but made no comments about what I had done and felt very foolish when he jumped up using the round thing that was lowered after the 1st switch was pulled and made his way over to the second switch...

Now that my red faced portion is over with I will give proper feedback!

Cut scene = Awesome
Lighting = Awesome
Design = Awesome
Story = Awesome
Platforming = Really good
Boss = Awesome
Different endings = Awesome
Secrets = Awesome

I have enjoyed your LBP work since I have know of its exsistance...and this level is no exception! Looks great and plays great. I liked your foray into expanded secret hiding! I enjoyed your use of layers throughout.

When my friend played he found all your secrets but one...I missed 4 but know where 2 were that I missed...I'll be going back to settle that!

I loved that you had a secret hid right at the before the boss...but once on the barge there is no going back...heheheh (Instant replay!) Loved your platform elements too...some nice stuff there.

Keep up the good work and thanks for playing mine!

:star::star::star::star::star: + Hearted and Beautiful

Working on formulating ideas now for Queen will let you know when I have broken the seal on Part 5!

2010-01-09 14:22:00

Author:
AJnKnox

Posts: 518

Quite a few great levels out the past week, and this one of the very best!

The visuals are perfect. Great Lighting, (

) great material choices and stickers, and a cool dragon.

I loved the gameplay. It just felt like it was built by one of the best in the business, which it was.
5 Stars and a heart. Not much else to say since everything seems covered. Thanks for making this! XD

2010-01-09 16:01:00

Author:
KQuinn94Z

Posts: 1758

I played this last night and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately, my internet connection died about midway through the level so I was unable to rate it, but I plan to play it again today and give it 5 stars and a heart.

Anyway, what can I say that hasn't already been said? The visuals were near-perfect, the music fit the theme, there was a great atmosphere made with lighting... (*continues for several minutes*)

I did enjoy the way you handled the introduction. Most people put the player on a conveyor belt and force them to watch an introduction at the speed they want them too, but you just put the words right there for the player to see as they're walking by, admiring the scenery. Right off the bat, I knew I was in for something good.

The ankh-hunting sidequest was pure genius, as well. When I reached the end of the level, I was confident I had gotten them all, only to see I'd missed... three?!? Yet another reason for me to replay. Those ankhs won't know what hit them when I'm done with 'em!

Also, I feel the need to mention your silhouettes of the gods. They were spot-on, as was your understanding of the mythology behind them all. I don't think I've seen the story of Osiris and Set done so well before. If I wasn't already interested in Egyptian mythology, this level would surely have inspired me.

And, finally, by the fact that "Egypt" was a subtitle, am I correct in guessing that this will become a series? Because if so, I'm really looking forward to the next one.

So, like I said before, 5 stars and a heart. Great job, Morgana.

2010-01-09 16:34:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Thanks guys for all the kind words

Really glad your enjoying it.

The secret at the end was a bit of a sneaky thing on my part. I wanted one up near the barge and that was the most logical place to put it as it's out of camera shot if your not looking for it. It does sort of make me smile that it's one of those, darn, I can't get it now, kind of secrets. I don't get to do that too often.

It is part of a series I'm working on. So the next one with either be Leviathan or Quetzequatl... I'm leaning towards the feathered dragon now and perhaps Leviathan third.... not sure. But yep, there will be more as long as I can get good myths and find the time to make them

2010-01-09 23:06:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Wow! I'm so busy creating that I rarely take time to play, but I'm glad I took the time last night. This level is simply breathtaking, the visual presentation possibly the most atmostpheric I've ever seen on LBP. You've totally mastered the art of "mood lighting" there (I might be asking you for tips in future). You've combined detailed custom backgrounds with the lush egyptian deco to create a rich aesthetic throughout, and it works for me that you've kept gameplay really simple too, allowing players the chance to just sit back, relax and soak up the eye-candy, but with enough interactivity to add an element of peril to the journey. I had no serious technical issues and the whole level flowed smoothly from beginning to end, (except for that bit with the huge glowing ankh...I missed the elevator and had to pop myself up to the checkpoint). The dragon at the end was beautifully crafted and the final set-piece nicely constructed as a whole, but I'm not sure about the glowing red area that warns you of imminent attack, since it detracted from the aesthetic somehow. That's just nitpicking though.

Amazing level, and a well earned 5 stars.

BTW, I don't need feedback in return because ol' Snail's Pace here still hasn't finished his new level. Yeah, just give me a boot up the *** okay?

2010-01-10 11:49:00

Author:
Ungreth

Posts: 2130

Woohoo! I'm looking forward to whatever you have in store.

Also, congrats on getting spotlighted. You totally deserve it.

2010-01-10 15:18:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Gosh Morgana, this is such a stunning level. Design is beautiful, colours as always are gorgeous and the story is fabulous. The cut scenes are amazing. Fantastic work and congratulations on being spotlighted. Well done, thank you.

Icey

2010-01-10 16:18:00

Author:
IceMaiden

Posts: 1057

Oh....I really can't wait for either of them. I'm fascinated by South America History and Mythology, with the Mayans, Incas, Aztecs... It's so interesting to me.

2010-01-10 16:26:00

Author:
KQuinn94Z

Posts: 1758

So my 7 days is up and the stats are:

Page 2 was the highest it went
5,547 Plays
708 hearts

tagged Beautiful, Brilliant, & Tricky

completed 2,424 times.

That's my best showing to date so I'm really happy about it

Thanks everyone who checked it out and for all the great comments! Feel free to leave more - I love hearing what people think about them.

2010-01-10 23:19:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Only page 2? You totally deserved page 1 with this one, Morgana. Maybe next time?

2010-01-11 01:25:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

Well, if I spam published it a ton I might have made it to 1. Once it hits about page 4 I stop publishing it a lot. It was a goal to hit 1 this time but it's ok. One of these days I'll get there. Probably get nailed with nasty comments and tricky tags too

Although I did get a fair number of those this time around. My 2 favorite ones was one that said the lighting was bad. (lol) and one that spam commented that it was the dumbest level he'd ever played about 4 times in a row in my comments section. (He's a H4H & trophy player so whatever. lol)

Still No complaints - I really care more about how the community here receives it and as always the support has been wonderful.

2010-01-11 01:43:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

The trick seems to be not caring what people like that think, which isn't very hard to do, am I right?

That second guy probably let Apophis eat the sun a couple times in a row and decided it was impossible and therefore the "dumbest level ever." What're you gonna do, right?

2010-01-11 01:51:00

Author:
dandygandy2704

Posts: 1002

I played this just the other day and had a wonderful time with it. I loved the opening in the desert and the way you used the fog to make it seem like the sand went on forever! In fact, the entire Egyptian theme was extremely well done. And the cutscene... wow! That was probably my favorite part! The way it panned up into the stars was soo cool!

The level was very fun as well! I did feel a little cramped in some of the tight corridors, but I don't recall the gameplay ever suffering from that. I think I just prefer areas with a bit more elbow room.

But like I said, it never affected the gameplay and I had a great time solving puzzles and looking for secrets!

The boss fight was fun too! It was pretty easy, but it felt pretty intense. The dragon managed to fly right up to my Sackboy, but I fought him off at the last second! Great fun!

So, overall, a wonderful level and it's really cool to see you doing new levels outside of the Chroma Stone series... although I must admit I was secretly hoping that Abyssia would pop her evil little head out!

Great level! Well done!

2010-01-11 02:02:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer

Posts: 1335

http://img70.yfrog.com/img70/3071/hezpk.jpg
Sorry to break with the general sentiment of this thread, but I thought the level wasn't all that great. The main reason for that was that for some reason the god of fun wasn't didn't have a watchful eye on me in that level. I was running through, picking up ankhs here and there, but for me there was hardly any fun-entusing gameplay/obstacles. Oh, and you trademark lag inducing lighting was a bit bothersome.
The boss fight was decent, but as you can see my dragon rider skills proved helpful.

Overall, for me, a decent level but nothing really special.

2010-01-16 09:20:00

Author:
Syroc

Posts: 3193

Loks great morgana can't wait to play.

2010-01-17 08:36:00

Author:
lbpholic

Posts: 1304

Thanks for the honest opinion Syroc. Sorry it wasn't your brand of fun.

The weird thing about the lag is I wasn't aiming for it this time and went to great lengths to avoid it. There are a handful of spotlights in there but a lot of LED's.There are two places where things lag a tiny bit for me when online but otherwise it hasn't been an issue.

Riding the dragon is possible but you'll end up triggering the bad ending I think....

Oh well, no accounting for tastes.

Thanks for playing it.

2010-01-17 08:38:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

Hi Morgana! Since I just visited your level because it needed some Grief Relief (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=17390-The-Grief-Relief-Team&highlight=Grief+Relief+Team), I figured I'd give you some quick feedback as well. Since I really took my time searching for good picture opportunities, I was able to enjoy every nook and cranny of this one!

Pros:
- I loved the Egyptian artwork/statues .. very well done
- Secrets are always fun - I missed 2, and I was very thorough!
- From my memory of Greek mythology, you nailed it .. although the Stargate SG-1 team figured out that Apophas was a Go'ould and they eventually gave him what he deserved

- I really like how you layer platforming in your levels (back and forth between the three layers)
- The cut scene in the beginning, explaining the story, was a nice treat

Cons:
- honestly, you really should fix that first camera angle towards the beginning. I felt like I was looking up for a while, as sackboy was near the top of the tv screen. It didn't hinder me from playing the level, but it was annoying

- I too had a bit of lag while playing this. Syroc mentioned that it was because of the lights? Maybe the thermo is just a bit too high? hmm..

Overall:
5 :star:'s, heart, tagged "beautiful"

Congrats on the Spotlight!

2010-01-23 05:33:00

Author:
Powershifter

Posts: 668

Morgana, I played again yesterday to make my "Grief Relief" contribution and spotted a small flaw. After getting on the first elevator I immediately dropped off it again, but then it didn't come back down to let me get back on it, meaning a level restart. It's right at the start of the level anyway, so it's not a major issue, but small flaws can stick out like a sore thumb in near-perfect levels like this one.

Anyway, I finally found all your secrets this time around.

I also got the bad ending which was actually quite satisfying in a "Mwa ha ha...darkness prevails!" kinda way.

2010-01-24 12:49:00

Author:
Ungreth

Posts: 2130

Just played through this, and thought it was a really great level. Loved the sand/fog bit at the beggining and the platforming was fun but not too difficult. Only minor nitpick is at the bit just after you go to the underworld in the room with the two switches - the first time I played through an extremely bright light came on here and I found it difficult to see what I was doing. :star::star::star::star::star: and a Heart. Tagged Baeutiful and Brilliant.
F4F wise, I would really apprieciate it if you'd play my 'The Crate Escape' Level when it come out later this week, if you're not too busy.
SP

2010-01-24 23:13:00

Author:
Cpt_Sainsburys

Posts: 187

i gotta agree with syroc, wasn't anything too fun here although it was alittle exciting once you hit the dragon chase scene but then you see the dragon and i was kinda disappointed. ill just put the rest in pros and cons
Pros:
-good moderate use of 3D
-cutscene story was good
-statues were a nice touch

Cons:
-dragon appearance
-Ankh very visible
-obstacles very bland
-too many sticker cutouts of Egyptian architecture, stood out and looked awkward
-build of the level was kinda blocky and plain

This may have been just a incident with the theme, Egyptian is kinda hard to spice up so i still have high hopes for the next installment of Dragons of Myth. When can we expect it?

2010-01-24 23:27:00

Author:
Littlebigdude805

Posts: 1924

I'm working on it now. Will take quite some time though.

Sorry you didn't like the Egyptian one. It's not a very high energy level I guess so it's not everyone's kind of level. Hopefully you won't feel this way about all of them but I do tend to focus on visuals and easy platforming so you may.

Not sure why the elevator got stuck for you Ungreth... Never had that happen before. I'll take a look at it.

@ Satanspit - the flash is part of the transition. Not sure why that would have triggered early. It should fire as you are raising up on the platform.

2010-01-24 23:33:00

Author:
Morgana25

Posts: 5983

excellent graphics and story.very beautiful and original journey to the stars!
I love the levels Egyptians and I think this is among the best ever ever seen!

2010-01-31 00:00:00

Author:
pirmaut

Posts: 99

Hey Morgana! I just played your level and I thought it was really good, I liked the egyptians and especially the boss! That boss was most excellent if I do say so myself. (Posh Mode lol) The character design was well done aswel.

I've only got 2 complaints and thats dealing with the lighting. It was excellent but yet sometimes abit laggy but nothing major. And my only other complaint is that the middle section got abit tedious and claustrophobic, but thats just my opinion again.

Overall I really enjoyed the level! 5 stars + heart. Ooohrah!

PS - I know your busy but can you give my new level "Journey to the Forgotten Planet" a try? Many thanks (and bananas) if you could.

2010-02-01 18:42:00

Author:
AgentBanana

Posts: 511

I can't wait for this to be continued, when will you make the sequel?

2010-03-27 01:21:00

Author:
Arctos13

Posts: 258

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