Home    LBP Showcase / Reviews / Recommendations    Level Showcase    Cool Levels
#1

Discworld: Thieves of Ankh Morpork -- Released!

Archive: 97 posts

Discworld: Thieves of Ankh Morpork -- video trailerTheAdipose
TheAdipose and Luos_Desruc return with a homage to the great Terry Pratchett with this LittleBigPlanet level set in Ankh Morpork. Playing as Cyril on his first day at the Thieves Guild you must find secret routes around the city, overcome difficult puzzles, sneak past killer parrots, battle power crazy wizards... and... above all... avoid being sold anything by CMOT Dibbler.
This level is now released!

http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2010/059/d/f/df3c197eaca2f9ec09c1caed13052227.jpg

please watch the VIDEO TRAILER (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzPjWLikSiA)

.. I am aware the trailer contains some of the worst voice acting in the world - but hopefully it will get you excited about the level

Massive amount of credits for this level:
Terry Pratchett - intellectual property and writing such a great set of books
Adi - level design, gameplay, telling everyone else what to do, discworld research, all dialogue, sack cutouts, 3D bits and bobs, and even a surprisingly large amount of the visuals!
Luos - wizards tower (external), killer parrots, fixing all my visuals that sucked, thiefs scoreboard, removing a billion of freds stickers, dwarf mines, Jez scroll room, loads of front layer stuff, all the lighting, generally making stuff look awesome - thanks luos!
Fred - working with adi on the city, dressing up in loads of weird outfits so adi could photo him, mine cart, placing objects that broke stuff.
Sync - wizards tablecloth
robotcrash - dibblers cart + dressing up.
rtm223 - sneak logic - thankyou!
comph - bits of logic help here and there + logic pack
bakscratch - 3D glitch discovery
enochroot - masses of feedback and ideas to improve the level.
sehven, ajnknox, coxy, clarie - thanks for taking the time to beta test and share ideas to improve the level.

This is Adi and Luos' 3rd level working as a team and we believe it's our best work yet. Please check it out, but only do so when you have the time to sit back and enjoy it. It's a slow paced level of exploration and experimentation.

Tonight I've uploaded a video tutorial explaining some of the ideas we used in this level. I discuss the sneak sensor, mouth logic, and a whole lot more! Aimed at newer creators, but experienced ones may enjoy an explanation of some of rtms/comph's tools.

VIDEO TUTORIAL (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlKLPl2qyZc)

Adi		2010-02-28 09:17:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

I imagine I'll quite like this.....Discworld = win! lol @ trailer - nice 2010-02-28 09:44:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Oh Gosh, what an amazing idea ! :eek:

Can't wait to call it an amazing level ! I've been thinking of such a level after watching the film made for television (i didn't know these books at all), but this has never come to anything.

You can be sure I'll play it as soon as it's up, it seems that you and Luos_Desruc have gorgeously used the 3D glitch (it's often overdone in many levels), the part in 1:11 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzPjWLikSiA) is really impressive, the sceneries are stunning.

Looking forward to playing it ^^		2010-02-28 10:03:00

Author:
Oddmania
Posts: 1305

I imagine I'll quite like this.....Dicworld = win! lol @ trailer - nice

sorry to disappoint... but this about 'discworld'....um...dicworld is...um... about something else...:blush:		2010-02-28 10:47:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

I had the pleasure of beta-testing the level. It really is revolutionary stuff. I have never played a LBP-level like this. This is a REAL story-level (like an RPG without all the menus). It's packed with multiple missions, quite tricky puzzles, a horde of quirky characters and some unbelievable well-designed scenery.

It captures the feel of Ankh Mopork perfectly. It is definately not a level to rush through, instead: take your time to explore and let yourself be immersed in this strange and wonderfull world. Soak up the atmosphere, think out of the box, and beware of those nasty parrots...		2010-02-28 11:55:00

Author:
pickled-punk
Posts: 598

Nice video and I'm a fan of Discworld too.

I would like to point out something about the banner with the level title on at the end though. I assume you have that in the actual level ?

The text looks great but the r's in Morpork don't look right to me. They look like c's so when I read it I thought it said MOCPOCK !		2010-02-28 12:36:00

Author:
mistervista
Posts: 2210

Yeah I think the text is a touch hard to read... but I love the font so much I dont want to change it I figure people will know the name of the level anyway so I can leave it. Thanks for the feedback though, hope you enjoy the level.
Adi		2010-02-28 12:40:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

sorry to disappoint... but this about 'discworld'....um...dicworld is...um... about something else...:blush:

lol - sorry - it was 4am and I'm not the best typist even in the light of day :blush:		2010-02-28 18:51:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Almost done huh adi
thank you all for your kind comments!		2010-02-28 20:22:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

i just watched the trailer and felt dizzy with excitement. that looked amazing!2010-02-28 21:08:00

Author:
trip090
Posts: 1562

The trailer is good and trust me, so is the level
I sent you a PM with some stuff I thought might help Adi 		2010-02-28 21:12:00

Author:
Coxy224
Posts: 2645

That was AWESOME!!!
The music, the level,the trailer, how did you get your voice like that? I WILL play that level and I WILL give it 5 stars and a hart!!!		2010-02-28 21:35:00

Author:
Couchmuffin
Posts: 53

One of the best levels I've ever seen on LBP. Humourous,fun and original. Better than the old Ps-one point and click discworld game.2010-02-28 22:08:00

Author:
EnochRoot
Posts: 533

Wonderful, this should tide me over until Sack the legendary 5 comes out!2010-03-01 04:57:00

Author:
Arctos13
Posts: 258

"Buy ma' dang carrots! " Hahaha.

Fun fact: I am CMOT Dibbler! :eek: Hope you all like my Carrot and Fish Carts!		2010-03-01 05:03:00

Author:
RobotCrash
Posts: 121

You did some serious good work with 3D there guys. Liked that rope shimmy section too, can't wait to play the finished product.

Still amazed how you put this this together so quickly O.o		2010-03-01 05:05:00

Author:
Thegide
Posts: 1465

Where do I get mentioned? I made the awesome mine cart lol 2010-03-01 05:44:00

Author:
Fredrik94
Posts: 342

dont worry fred, when the level is released we will add all the propper credits!
and I cant believe we did this in a little bit more than 2 weeks.		2010-03-01 12:47:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

You guys are quickly becoming my two of my favourite happy gadders. Massive fan of the disc so as soon as PSN gets sorted I'm soooo onto this.

Anything with CMOT is win for me ^^

I just wish they'd hurry up and release going postal -.-'		2010-03-01 14:41:00

Author:
Mrgenji
Posts: 803

Ok so I have to say this is 1 of my LBP favs after having tested it!

*I don't know Diskworld (or whatever it is, but this was very cool
*I loved the story!
*Loved the different missions!
*Loved the town and the different mechanics you used!

This is Hard! But if you take your time look around and think about what you have to do, you will figure out the answer. (took me about 2 1/2 hours to play through it the first time as I was taking notes too, but still it's a thinker!)

I will play as soon as its posted and the playstation network is back up (Oh and as soon as I get home from work! lol)

Unless you have ripped everything out and started over, (LOL) I will rate it 5 stars, give it an ingenious tag, and heart you both as creators (if I haven't done so already 		2010-03-01 17:44:00

Author:
AJnKnox
Posts: 518

thanks AjnKnox! You will love all the new additions we added to the level.
Kudo's for adi for coming up with such a neat level!		2010-03-01 17:51:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Ok so I have to say this is 1 of my LBP favs after having tested it!

*I don't know Diskworld (or whatever it is, but this was very cool

Discworld is a fantasy universe filled with magic,humour and unforgettable characters. Brilliant and original, much better than that generic cliched Harry Potter stuff.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Discworld		2010-03-01 22:27:00

Author:
EnochRoot
Posts: 533

Sadly due to PS3 bugs, release is indefinately postponed. I'm currently reading Unseen Academicals instead 2010-03-01 22:42:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

W00t! Seem to be back in Business! Level will be released at about 6pm this evening GMT!2010-03-02 08:38:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

This looks really good guys, putting it on my list of levels to play this weekend. Enjoyed the trailer and can't wait to actually play it.2010-03-02 09:34:00

Author:
shebhnt
Posts: 414

Gah, Enoch keeps taunting me with this ><

Hurry up and release it so i can get him to stop 		2010-03-02 15:21:00

Author:
Mrgenji
Posts: 803

Horray! Can't wait to play this tonight 2010-03-02 15:49:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Hey, this looks good!
You guys seems to make a great team.		2010-03-02 17:18:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Level is now released! First post updated with lots of extra details, credits, and banner. Please check it out when you have time!2010-03-02 19:18:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

Absolutely loved this! I'm usually not the biggest fan of open world levels, but I thought this was great. The dialogue, the characters, and the scenery was fantastic. Loved the bit about "grab your seat" and then you actually grab it. Small detail, but made me chuckle. Over all I thought the difficulty was just right, but like I told you on psn, the red gem at the top of the mines is pretty tough to grab. I also struggled with the flying paint jar puzzles. I knew what I needed to do, but getting it just right was pretty tough.

Other than those issues, I loved it! Great use of the layer glitch for some really nice visuals and some great gameplay (loved stealing the package in the jail!). Great job!		2010-03-02 20:10:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Kudos to Fredrik94 for discovering how to take pictures of sackboy from behind/sideways!
Atleast I haven't seen anyone else having pictures of sackboy from behind/sideways xD


Fredrik also had sneak past sleeping guard idea. 		2010-03-02 20:29:00

Author:
Fredrik94
Posts: 342

Also Kudo's for Fred to place random objects into our level, that would make things go break 2010-03-02 20:31:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Well done am going to play this first thing tommorow, can't wait to play it, i remember watchign you make this lol, well done.2010-03-02 22:12:00

Author:
lbpholic
Posts: 1304

I'm not usually a fan of this genre of level because there's usually too much running/listening and not enough play, but that kept me smiling for at least 3/4 hr. Great job guys, really well thought out and executed. I really liked that you let the player just work everything out rather than signpost - in the more action-y platformers its a necessary evil sometimes because you need to keep a momentum, but here you set the leisurely tone from the onset perfectly, and as a result it never becomes a frustration.

I saw all my hard to come by coins go bye-bye at the hands of the wizard, i found him tough!

Oh, and my favourite bit of visuals were the stars, really nice them!		2010-03-02 23:41:00

Author:
julesyjules
Posts: 1156

Oh, and my favourite bit of visuals were the stars, really nice them!

I know I rule 		2010-03-03 00:51:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Played this earlier and loved it once I figured out there was a rope to swing on LOL.

I love Discworld anyway although I haven't got that many of the books.

Great level anyway and I'd love to know how you did some of that stuff as I've no idea. I've been playing LBP almost every day since launch but I'm still rubbish. I find logic impossible to get my head round and I have no artistic talent whatsoever so I just keep struggling along making mediocre levels. I'd love to know how you did the sneaking past the guard bit and how you make all the different speech bubbles appear in the same place but at different times and depending on what has happened. If it's loads of complex logic again don't bother explaining because I just won't understand it.

Thanks anyway.

Oh I almost forgot, just 1 thing in the level confused me. After the guard shows you the score thingy for how many hidden objects you've collected I carried on and finished the level but I never saw that again so I've no idea how I did or what it was for.		2010-03-03 01:36:00

Author:
mistervista
Posts: 2210

At least I haven't seen anyone else having pictures of sackboy from behind/sideways xD

Have you seen my avatar? I'm not only sideways, I'm doing a gun finger at the camera. Got that effect by going into sticker edit mode while holding a paintinator and taking a pic with the second controller.

Love this level. Seems like you fixed all the nitpicks I had with the beta, though I still think the sneaking part makes you walk a bit too slow. I'll be walking at a nice slow pace and the alert will trigger anyway. Have to crawl.

Right now I'm searching and searching for the last coin. It's the top red light on the scoreboard. Can't find it for the life of me.
[EDIT] Found it. That one was tough.

[EDIT again] Ok, I've got another quibble. I absolutely hate unavoidable deaths. I understand killing the player for the sake of teleporters (I still hate teleporters, but their existence is justifiable), but why did the wizard have to explode when I grabbed him? My reward for beating him was to die anyway? Also, it was a bit annoying when I got killed by the explosions happening in the city (since explosions in any layer, even 3d glitched ones, affect all layers). Probably nothing you can do about that, though.

Like I said, though, it's a quibble. Doesn't detract from the overall awesomeness and five star worthiness of the level (I made an exception to my rule to never 5 star a level that isn't multiplayer compatible).		2010-03-03 04:22:00

Author:
Sehven
Posts: 2188

@jules - yeah the wizard is tough - but as with most of the level, the slower you take it and the more you plan it out, hopefully, the easier it is.

@mistavista - thanks for the comments The speech logic is one of the prizes for collecting coins (or I can just show you it on PSN sometime). The coin scoreboard only appears after the dwarf mission but before you go the Unseen University. -perhaps I need to make it clearer that this is your last chance to collect. ...and I cant take credit for the sneak logic - thats all rtm223.

@Sehven - I agree with you about those 2 deaths at the end. MOST of the time neither of those events kill you - but if you grab the wizard at the wrong angle, or the book rises JUST too high when the city goes you can get killed. I think I will go and look at them again because I agree with you. Thanks again for testing and feedback.

Adi.		2010-03-03 06:55:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

53 minutes of time and every silver coin later...I'm still smiling Nice work you guys!2010-03-03 07:59:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

...and I cant take credit for the sneak logic - thats all rtm223.


Yeah, it's rtm's. However, I think the basic concept is a player tracker, with two sensors, and if the player goes too far to the left or to the right, one of the sensors will trigger and activate the alarm.		2010-03-03 13:35:00

Author:
Fredrik94
Posts: 342

Very clever i loved the sneak logic.

Ok after i played this for about 1 hour i found all of the coins but 1 lol really annoying, i am 8th on the scoreboard woop woop, i love the fact how the actual level is tiny but you run back and fourth throughout the level, i am using a similar technnique in my current level im working on, i thoght this was amazingly good and had some funny comedy lines in it which i was tickled at, all in all another great level but the wonderful Adi and Luos, can't wait for the sequel good luck guys.		2010-03-03 13:53:00

Author:
lbpholic
Posts: 1304

i am blown away by this. the visuals, the game play, everything. i can't fault it.

i loved the constant changing of the scene. go into the thieves hideout thing, come out and the guy with the cart has moved. the buildings were really well made and the humor hit the spot.

i really enjoyed this level. thanks guys!		2010-03-03 15:58:00

Author:
trip090
Posts: 1562

Ok, I played this level and I have to say that you guys really took your level designing up a notch. I loved the mini-missions that you had to complete to continue the story along. The grabbable rope was the first thing that I really enjoyed bc im such a good hand-over-hand expert. The level was interesting and thought it takes a while to play it was worth it. I loved the humor you guys implemented, with the wizards discussing pointy hats and the persistent CMOT Dibbler selling you something. The logic that was used to "sneak" into the jail was very original and kudos to rtm223 for that The collecting the coins around the town was interesting and really put my master LBP skills to the test! I finished it without any qualms and gave it a 5 stars and a heart. Overall it took me about 25 mins to play, but I was enjoying it the whole time! Great job guys! You managed to pull of another great level! O and i had 2nd place as of tuesday the 2nd at 9:50 PM 2010-03-03 16:16:00

Author:
damaz10
Posts: 771

Sorry just two questions, i forgot to ask earlier:

1 how did you do the grabing rope i figured it must have been invisible sponge but i thought if it went to small u couldn't grab it?

2 can i have a look at your day time changing logic, the thing that makes it get darker after certain amount of time wondered how u did it?		2010-03-03 16:16:00

Author:
lbpholic
Posts: 1304

1. I think its very thin (invissi) dissolve, and as far as I know, you can still grab it.

2. its just a few globals that will get activated at certain points (finished a assignment)
I am gonna work on a global daylight system that will also affect most lights around the (next) city.

@ Mr-Vista,
I can always learn you some basic logic stuff, Adi/Gide/Comp/RTM are still making me learn more and more..
I can also do some more complicated stuff (bos that takes up 4 thermobars for logic alone )

thanks for all the awesome and kind comments so far!		2010-03-03 16:25:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

I am shamed luos you should love logic lol, and you missed me of the list whose trying to get you to learn logic.2010-03-03 16:34:00

Author:
lbpholic
Posts: 1304

I quit out of this last night because I got bored Lol, not a comment on the level, I just really wasn't in the mood for something paced like this, so I thought I'd come back later rather than slugging my way through

With regards to the sneak sensor, I'm actually surprised that we haven't seen more of them over the last 6 months. So many people have responded positively to it and asked about it and I'm assumming quite a lot of people have the logic now, but no-one's using it. BTW, the multi-player version might well work for your needs, having seen where it's going. I still haven't had time to look into it properly since you mentioned it, so probably best if you just come and have a look.		2010-03-03 16:36:00

Author:
rtm223
Posts: 6497

I am shamed luos you should love logic lol, and you missed me of the list whose trying to get you to learn logic.
I never said I hated logic
I love it
but after working 4 weeks on the logics for one boss.. I rather not see any logic for the next few days..
(and I created a cool way to make flowerbombs (zelda) today as well)

I do understand most logic from the logicpacks (Still get confused by the extremly optimal and/or switches) and I can use rtm's demitter in my sleep now.

But, as Vista stated he has problems with the logic, and in that case.. you have to start with "basics" though, I do think Vista understands the Permlogic 		2010-03-03 16:52:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Yes oky lol, i really love logic especially when u come across a problem which you have to fix.2010-03-03 16:58:00

Author:
lbpholic
Posts: 1304

i forgot to ask earlier:

1 how did you do the grabing rope i figured it must have been invisible sponge but i thought if it went to small u couldn't grab it?

Well I did this in my lvl I am working on as well...although I didn't ask how they did it. In my lvl I didn't use sponge...dont know how they did theres.


Ok so I have played the final version and was 3rd on the scoreboard at the time. I didn't find 1 secret so I will be going back. This is to me, a game in its self. It felt like I had been givin a new story level that was a fun diversion from the original story line.

I loved it! I said that before and I'll say it again. The characters were fun with great detail...yes it is 'Hard' in places but that whats makes it rewarding! I can see how this might not be everyones cup of tea, with the running back and forth and climbing up and over so much.

The puzzles were very challenging since there was not really many hints, (Which I like BTW) but not impossible.

Great job guys!

5 Stars, Puzzler tag, Hearted & Hearted you both as creators.

EDIT: I did have trouble grabbing the top of the clock tower though...so might need to look at that...I mean I grabbed all over that thing before it finally activated...thats the second time it did that.


2010-03-03 17:01:00

Author:
AJnKnox
Posts: 518

5 Stars, Puzzler tag, Hearted & Hearted you both as creators.

Awww.. shucks!
thank you!		2010-03-03 17:04:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Wow, this Level is great !!
I've never see so a fantastik Design bevor!!
I give you 5Stars+Heart		2010-03-04 13:02:00

Author:
Unknown User

an amazing level and have give it 5 stars and heart. and well adipose and luos helped me find lbpc after watching there level tutorials on y tube that is2010-03-04 14:19:00

Author:
sorrowthedark
Posts: 125

Really great level ? I so much enjoyed playing it today. The story is very strong and not told in a wearisome way. It seems an odd thing to say but your use and management of speech-bubbles is impeccable, lol! Loved the humour in the dialogue too and the fantastic characters. I know nothing of the Discworld books but I have taken an instant liking to CMOT Dibbler - that kind of persistence in the face of failure is impressive! Very clever the way he kept moving around too. I also admit to a soft spot for the stone troll but that one?s harder to explain.

The gameplay is wonderful. I love this kind of exploring and backtracking level with secrets and yours is a standout example. I was particularly impressed with the way the puzzles were woven seamlessly into the story and not just tacked on. Nice variety in the three tasks too. My favourite was the dungeon one ? nice touch to make retrieving the package more than just a straightforward left to right pull!

I enjoyed hunting out the silver coins. They were cunningly hidden for the most part even though I did over-think it. On my first play through I did that tricky jump to the top of the clock tower three times in all, as I was convinced that after the second and third tasks there was going to be a coin at the top! The second part of the level ? the visit to the Unseen University added some variety aand contrast to the gameplay. I loved the paintinator puzzle in particular (as well as the speech-bubble explaining it!).

My only small gripe with the gameplay is the issue raised by Sehven. You do feel a bit aggrieved that when you actually (finally!) get to the wizard and grab him, you are instantly blown to smithereens for your pains! This happened both times I played, although, unlike Sehven, I had no problems with the book. Could he not just vanish in a puff of smoke somehow? (This is a non-creator talking here, lol!)

The visuals were fantastic throughout. The town had real character and some lovely details to it and I also loved the Unseen University? both the room with the wizards and the gorgeous stars which emit stardust. Nice effects with explosions at the end too.

Overall a great level which I had enormous fun playing. It has even made me consider reading a Discworld book, which I have always thought of so far as being pretty much a bloke thing only! I think this has to be your best joint level yet - 5 stars and a heart and if I hadn?t already given you both creator hearts you would definitely have got those too!		2010-03-05 01:08:00

Author:
shropshirelass
Posts: 1455

Thanks for such an amazing review shropshire - your comments are always appreciated. The wizard has one tiny tiny tiny bomb behind him. The idea is when you grab him yet get 'black faced'. Which I think is quite funny Sadly it seems to be killing more people than not, so yeah I might have to go back to the puff of smoke routine.

I'm glad you liked the story and dialogue. I often find story levels quite annoying and dull... and I often find humour in LBP very unfunny... so I spent a lot of time trying to make sure each mouth was relevant, perhaps entertaining, and easy to read. I tried to keep most of the mouths without cameras too so the player can keep moving even if the mouths are up. I think little things like that help.

Sorrow, glad you liked the tutorials. ..and glad you made your way here

I will try and get a tutorial explaining some of the techniques used in this level up this weekend.
Adi		2010-03-05 07:18:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

What can I say? This level was really really enjoyable. (Yes I typed 'really' twice. It's not a mistake.) The story for the level is first class and the dialouge in the speech bubbles is witty and super funny. The missions where well put together and required some thought to accomplish not to mention the fact that you had to find a way to infiltrate each location. I've got to admit that I didn't find all the silver coins (Think I found about half of them) so I'll definitely be coming back to 100% the level. Congrats to both of you on an awesome level.2010-03-05 15:15:00

Author:
shindol
Posts: 78

I was able to finish this level last night, but I still want to go back and go for those coins! I've mentioned in other forums that I have been a huge fan of the Discworld novels for many years, so it was really enjoyable to play in that world for a while! Many of the game play elements I found to be unique. I really enjoyed the gem hunt in the dwarf cave. The visuals at the end of the level were simply wonderful. I gave 5/5 + a heart. Hopefully, you'll consider continuing the adventure because I would love to see your take on granny weatherwax and nanny ogg.2010-03-05 18:25:00

Author:
RoharDragontamer
Posts: 397

This level (like my previous) has just dropped to 3*. I'm close to throwing a luos.2010-03-05 19:24:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

Usually means it's been hit by the kiddies on page 2 or page 1 of cool pages Adi..... take heart, even Mrsupercomputer and Wexfordian have 4 stars on their work.... don't make it right but your in good company.2010-03-05 19:33:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

This level (like my previous) has just dropped to 3*. I'm close to throwing a luos.

Well, you shouldn't be THAT surprised. You don't have a single shark in this level NOR do you have a room where you run around waiting to die. (I take that back. I remembered those @!#@! birds.) There were certain aspects of the level that were frustrating, but I'm pretty sure that your intent was to make this level a bit of a head scratcher. I like scratching my head, but not everyone does.

This is the first level that I've seen you guys published that appeals to a narrow audience (namely Castlevania and Terry Pratchet fans) so don't be discouraged.		2010-03-05 19:38:00

Author:
RoharDragontamer
Posts: 397

I'm close to throwing a luos.

Heh.

I'd try and just forget about attaching any importance to the rating given the nature of the level. It's just symptomatic of it not being typical LBP fare...		2010-03-05 19:57:00

Author:
julesyjules
Posts: 1156

Aww, what a great level you made, great job guys ! ^^

I liked the magical and warm atmosphere of the town, I loved jumping everywhere on the roofs, and the level seemed to be everlasting, it's good to see some long levels.

At first, I thought it was gonna rather repetitive (a kind of bloodless Assassin's Creed 1 ) but it turned out to be very interesting and enjoyable !

I was a bit surprised at the end, I didn't find any way to go into the clock tower, so I just decided to try to jump as high as possible, only to see if there was someting worthwhile at the top of the tower, and then..this happened.

I wasn't sure if it was how it was meant to turn out, maybe an alternate ending, but actually, this seems to be the right way.

That's good, I was happy to see that a huge event could happen without grabbing a switch, just by strolling and doing something quite meaningless.

:star: :star: :star: :star: :star: + One Heart ^^		2010-03-06 11:28:00

Author:
Oddmania
Posts: 1305

Great level, very pretty and very entertaining. I just had a little trouble getting on the clock tower, and it got a bit repetitive going up to the roofs every time (I had to get all coins, so I did go up more often than some I suppose). I would have added a shortcut later in the story. But other than that, very well done.


I'm glad you liked the story and dialogue. I often find story levels quite annoying and dull... and I often find humour in LBP very unfunny... so I spent a lot of time trying to make sure each mouth was relevant, perhaps entertaining, and easy to read. I tried to keep most of the mouths without cameras too so the player can keep moving even if the mouths are up. I think little things like that help.

I totally agree with this. I always strive to use as little text as possible, though it's hard to restrain yourselves sometimes.

For the record, I did survive the exploding wizard. 		2010-03-06 14:47:00

Author:
Rogar
Posts: 2284

Just played it guys, it was awesome. I'm not into the exploring levels usually but this what kept my attention the whole time. I really did enjoy the story behind it. I have never heard of discworld but now I'm interested to check it out.

I think what really worked here was the visuals, they really helped make the world feel more alive. I liked how the sun slowly set as you kept playing. I really enjoyed the use of the 3d effect. I thought it really enhanced the whole experience.

Once again, you guys made a fantastic level!

I just finished my newest blog post in which you guys are featured, check it out!

Visual Elements - Space (http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/entry.php?1106-The-Film-Makers-Blog-Visual-Elements-Space)		2010-03-07 18:30:00

Author:
shebhnt
Posts: 414

Brilliant level guys! 5 stars and a heart! The design, the characters, and the gameplay was top notch!

Also, am I the only person to spot the Two Ronnies tribute? "Fork Handles, handles for forks!"		2010-03-08 08:06:00

Author:
Rhys125
Posts: 841

Adi actually ask me to throw a luos tantrum about the star ratings,
but I took a deep breath and did not do it.

I got my opinion, ill keep it inside of me, bottle it up for some insane psycho level if I ever get to try Shrooms 		2010-03-08 12:46:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Also, am I the only person to spot the Two Ronnies tribute? "Fork Handles, handles for forks!"

No, I mentioned it 4 days ago in their thread on LBN but no-one replied. As I said on there that's one of my favourite comedy sketches ever but doesn't fit the Discworld level so I found that a bit odd.

Still a great level though apart from those **** parrots. That part's annoying especially when there is a checkpoint at the other end and you have to do it all over again to get back. It's also difficult to get back in the chimney again without dying.		2010-03-08 13:10:00

Author:
mistervista
Posts: 2210

Be glad I got hold of the parrots, as they where unbeatable in the beta versions.
same with the bouncy stars and evil wizard. 		2010-03-08 13:46:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

sorry vista, i did read your reply on LBN but I wasnt sure how to respond to it I think the 2 ronnies reference is fine. I do think the parrots are tricky... but I figure there are enough easy levels around. The parrots are predictable, they just require a bit of thought and timing. I'm glad you enjoyed it though, and I do appreciate the feedback2010-03-08 19:05:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

This level (like my previous) has just dropped to 3*. I'm close to throwing a luos.

This could have something to do with over publishing. I know you aren't exactly sitting there publishing every 5 minutes, but it is frequent enough to keep your visibility too high. A level such as this shouldn't be above page 4/5, anything higher and you have too much exposure to the real cool pages kiddies.		2010-03-08 22:02:00

Author:
rtm223
Posts: 6497

Still a great level though apart from those **** parrots. That part's annoying especially when there is a checkpoint at the other end and you have to do it all over again to get back. It's also difficult to get back in the chimney again without dying.

I liked the parrots. They were ****ed tough in the beta, but after being toned down for the final release (some of them could see you even if you weren't directly in the beam) it was a nice challenge but no longer frustrating. I also liked the checkpoint at the end: lots of games just give you an out once you've made it inside, and I like that this one didn't. I once had to rig an insanely complex logic system (well, at the time, I thought it was: nowadays I wouldn't consider it more than a slightly challenging logic solution) in a level: the player turns on the power, which electrifies the floor and then has to make it out of the room, but if he dies before making it out, the power shuts back off and he has to try again. I never like it in levels when you can fudge through a puzzle by dying halfway through it. (the level is called "Dire Wolf pt 1: Tameness of a Wolf" and the electrified floor part is pretty much right at the beginning if anybody wants to see it.		2010-03-08 23:25:00

Author:
Sehven
Posts: 2188

This could have something to do with over publishing. I know you aren't exactly sitting there publishing every 5 minutes, but it is frequent enough to keep your visibility too high. A level such as this shouldn't be above page 4/5, anything higher and you have too much exposure to the real cool pages kiddies.

I agree rtm. I've already decided my next level I'm not gonna republish at all and hopefully just enjoy the feedback from the forums. I decided eventually to keep republishing with discworld as it had already hit 3* and wasnt gonna come back up. So if it ends up with 200 plays and maybe 4 (or even 5 stars!) I would consider it a success. Adi.		2010-03-09 07:23:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

Just wondering how you did the 'mirror' effect guys.

I did my 'mirror' effect in my 2 player level with the flute glass from the valentine's pack but yours looked a bit flatter so I'm guessing yours is some kind of glitch maybe ?

By the way just to mention I played the level again recently and the wizard still killed me when he blew up after grabbing him. I think you said something in an earlier post about trying to fix that and that you used a very small bomb. I'm pretty sure though that making a bomb small makes no difference to the explosion. I'm not positive but I think it's exactly the same regardless of how small it is. I stand to be corrected though.		2010-03-09 12:37:00

Author:
mistervista
Posts: 2210

I dont know where adi found it, but we used a glass bottle for the reflection.

Afaik explosions remain largely the same when the bomb is resized.
Strangely enough I never explode myself when grabbing wizard wand.		2010-03-09 16:21:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

Nah, the explosion gets resized, but when you're shrinking it, it's hard to tell, 'cuz the explosion doesn't shrink nearly as much as the bomb does.

Try it out: glue some trigger explosives of varying sizes to a destructible thin layer (doesn't have to be thin, I guess: just glue them to a flat backplate). You'll notice that the bigger bombs make bigger holes in the backplate, but a bomb that's half the size of another makes a hole 3/4 the size (that's a rough approximation: but you get the point). At any rate, the tiniest bomb you can make is still deadly in a surprisingly big radius. I think mgs missiles make smaller explosions, but I could be wrong: I've always meant to do a series of tests with the various explosives but never got around to it.		2010-03-09 18:43:00

Author:
Sehven
Posts: 2188

I agree rtm. I've already decided my next level I'm not gonna republish at all and hopefully just enjoy the feedback from the forums. I decided eventually to keep republishing with discworld as it had already hit 3* and wasnt gonna come back up. So if it ends up with 200 plays and maybe 4 (or even 5 stars!) I would consider it a success. Adi.

I think you should consider it a success already! Just read through this thread again, and see if you think the people that love your level made it worthwhile!		2010-03-09 18:54:00

Author:
RoharDragontamer
Posts: 397

I was going through the spotlight list and played this earlier. Fantastic! Definately, don't worry about the rating.... this level is really something special. You two have built a level that is intelligent, rewarding, and looks stylistic and beautiful. I especially loved the dark area where you had to carry around the candle. I could also see how this one would get hammered on cool levels... many kids are simply not smart enough to finish it. But I totally ate it up.

Great job! 5 stars and a heart... and I gotta get back in tonight to see if I can get a better score! 		2010-03-10 00:10:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Thanks CCubbage, I'm gonna stop moaning about it now. I've decided I just like making hard levels, and you guys on forums have been fantastic at supporting me/us in telling us how much you enjoyed it, so who cares what cool levels says anyway!! The sequel will be made, but we've got a few more ideas to work on until then

Tonight I've uploaded a video tutorial explaining some of the ideas we used in this level. I discuss the sneak sensor, mouth logic, and a whole lot more! Aimed at newer creators, but experienced ones may enjoy an explanation of some of rtms/comph's tools.

VIDEO TUTORIAL (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlKLPl2qyZc)

Adi		2010-03-11 21:24:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

There's something really sneaky in this level. Getting past the killer parrots, stealing the package in the jail, running in the rooftops to find a hidden entrance to wherever you needed to go, It really felt like you were stealing and shouldn't get caught.

The academy part was really... weird. Especially on the story side. But I guess that's what it's supposed to be.
There's humour and all, and Everybody who's got the brain to finish this level will say that it is a 4, or possibly 5 star level. I say 5 myself. It's weird how the cool pages treat brain teaser levels like this...

I can't see anything to fix, It's just so polished. Well except maybe that walking treasure chest can block you behind some pillars. (WTF was that thing about anyway?) The pacing is slow, but It's supposed to be like that since it's a thief level. No complaints there.

It goes on a well-deserved spot on my hearted levels page, and I would 2x heart it if that was possible.
Oh, I'd like you to F4F my level, Red Eagle 2: B2 Bermuda. It needs some feedback from a level reviewer as experienced as you		2010-03-14 12:01:00

Author:
Arradi
Posts: 183

*Open letter to adi*

You know Adi..
I have been thinking..
About the 3 stars rating, our "throwing a Luos" at that etc etc.

The people with the biggest mouths will be heard... people respond to them..
May it be in an angry way, may it be complimental... The loudmouths will be heard.
But people like us.. You.. Me..
We whisper our stories.. Not knowing who might hear them..
But some people will hear your/our story..
They hear a silent whisper hidden between the loudmouths and took the time to listen to the whsipering..
It opened their eyes.. shear amazement... joy.. fun.. maybe.. even just maybe some of them.. if only for a minute.. forgot that they are actually human.. as we took their sackboy by the hand and guided them trough a world none has seen before...
Some of those people posted in this thread..
Others left a message on the level itself or even took the time to send us PSN mails telling us how amazing our level is/our levels are.
they thanked us for our story, and we should thank them for listening to us...
They took the time to look beyond the screaming from the loudmouths (cool page 1 comes to mind)
and not only did they find something valueble... they also gave us something valueble in return.
they give us the courage to go on, to make us feel better about ourself.. they make us feel acknowledged in some way...
And just as we inspire them trough our levels and tutorials..
they inspire us to go on, make more levels..

But not only that..
I have probably spend more time with you the last few months than I have spend time with my real life friends,
What started as some simple visual tweaking in your level ended up in something that I would call a friendship.
I will never forget our "Durrrp" walktrough to test Magpie, nor our frusration when working on the Arena level...
I have so much fun when you and I are playing trough levels..
(Adi dies more often than I do)
We have shared interests, and even though our opinions sometimes crash..
We just know it will be funtime when both Adi and Luos are online.
You inspire me to become a better person.. something that started when working on magpie..
And is something that will probably affect my life (and the way I act on the forum) on a daily basis.
You also inspire me to get more out of my own levels as your levels often force me to learn more than I could ever dream of.
(Still cant believe I semi-created that nifty maffia panda logic)
But also Sarge, FlowerMorbidBoss and some parts of my own levels have been created because you influenced me.
(sarge would not exist without the arena, and without sarge.. no flowerboss)
Our manly ghey hugs (ingame, dont you worry Clara!) whenever we create something awesome..
And again when we finally get it to work like we want it to always brings a smile on my face.

And that..
That is so much much more valueble to me than any star rating or hearts could ever do for me.		2010-03-16 23:19:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

I played this level the other day, and loved all of it. Particularly the freaky guy with the cart of useless stuff. It's amazing how you managed to fit such a long level into the single area. I've never read "Discworld", or anything else by Terry Pratchett, but it didn't make it any less enjoyable. The one thing I had a problem with was how to get the jewel on the ceiling. It took me a while to realise I had to drag the mine cart over to it.

Over all, a wonderful level. 5 stars and a heart.

F4F in my signature, if you'd like.		2010-03-17 18:49:00

Author:
Darth
Posts: 186

AHHHHH!!!! ( my dog just stepped on the laptop and lost a whole page of my review of this game AAAAAGGHH!!!!)

Sorry, but this may not end up as an extensive review as planned, as I am running out of time to re-write it.

So.......First off, boy did I find this game HARD! I'm not too hot on platforming and the jumping and grabbing made it very frustrating for me. I got stuck at what to do right from the start, and as you know had to message you to ask about the grabbing and swinging into the window. I spent half an hour on and off the top of the weapons shop, with two friends (yeah I know it is strictly a one player game) before giving up, and that explains why its NOT getting the 5 stars it deserves, people give up because its a little unclear where to go......now if the first part was easy, it wouldn't be so satisfying, (and boy was I satisfied when I got that bit done and walked into the 3D church scene (yeah I know its not a church, but you know what I mean, BEAUTIFUL!) So I'm not suggesting you change it, because it would seem allot of people had no trouble working it out, but there are allot that DID, hence the small percentage of completes / plays

Sorry, I'm not trying to put a 'downer' on you:
This whole game inspired me, from the puzzles to the art work, to the little attention to details, and though i spent more time on this game than any other that I'm likely to play, it made no difference. I loved the humor, it's difficulty, its complexity, and its originality, and in short, 5 starts and a heart do not do this game justice!

You cant please all the people all the time and all that, but if you wanted to try, make the start a little more straight forward, but I think the feedback on here is more than enough to make you realize what a fine piece of work this game is!

Thank you!!!

(Oh, and sorry for the late F4F, and thank you for your kind words on mine		2010-03-19 17:38:00

Author:
Shade_seeker
Posts: 328

When I played it, something really weird happened: After I went to the theif class thingy, and met the fishmonger dude, I grabbed his fish and all of a sudden, HE ROSE INTO THE AIR ALMOST UP TO THE STAINED GLASS WINDOW, AND TURNED ON HIS SIDE!!!!!! Was that supposed to happen? XD2010-04-04 20:31:00

Author:
SPONGMONKEY56
Posts: 209

Along with the post above, that happened to me too.....

Stunning visuals and great logic put into this level! At times I found it somewhat confusing, but I found my way around it.		2010-04-05 01:51:00

Author:
Phosphorus15
Posts: 463

no that isnt supposed to happen, and i've seen pictures of it, but i've never managed to recreate it. I guess I need to lower his piston a wee bit. Thanks for letting me know.
Adi		2010-04-10 07:46:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

This was such an awesome level! The concept was genius, I love the idea of exploring the town and finding different missions! Sort of free-roamy, I'd love if you had the same idea on a larger scale for the next one! More insane roof-clambering Assassin's Creed style, please!

Missions were very inventive, challenging yet fair. Very clever puzzles! And I loved the coin side missions, good idea!
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii220/blackfalcon_album/APhoto.jpg

Great characters, awesome dialogue; you've got a great sense of humour! But one thing I absolutely MUST commend you on is a rather obscure aspect: Camera Angles. They helped you rather than hindered you, and strange as it may seem in my opinion you are one of the only creators on LBPC who got it right. The subtlety of it all, I ALWAYS knew exactly where to go and that is something I cannot praise enough. THANK YOU.

A :star::star::star::star::star: level if ever I saw one! I cannot wait for the next in the series!

http://i.neoseeker.com/mgv/272671-Blackfalcon/671/5/animal0064hb2_display.gif		2010-04-24 20:47:00

Author:
Blackfalcon
Posts: 409

I just wanted to let you two know that I used this level again in my blog! Read about it in the new post found here! (http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/entry.php?1288-The-Film-Makers-Blog-Story-Chapter-2-Hero-s-Journey)2010-04-26 01:28:00

Author:
shebhnt
Posts: 414

@BF Well done for finding all those coins - some of them are pretty tricky! I always regretted not putting one in the house with the Orc. Thanks for the compliments. It's great that people are still enjoying this level a good few months on from release.

@sheb Thanks for using our level again. I always enjoy your blogs, they are very thought provoking and make a really refreshing change from the standard guides.		2010-04-28 07:13:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

Why thank you. It was a pleasure to look for them, the level is a joy to explore.

http://i.neoseeker.com/mgv/272671-Blackfalcon/671/5/animal0064hb2_display.gif		2010-04-28 16:25:00

Author:
Blackfalcon
Posts: 409

Finally found the time to sit back and enjoy this level.

You guys really outdid yourselfs. Everythings perfect. The scenery, the backgrounds, the characters and the gameplay.
Awesomeness all the way.

Extra cookies for Adi & Luos. This is one of my favourite levels of all time.

:star::star::star::star::star: & <3		2010-06-06 21:53:00

Author:
Unknown User

Nice this looks pretty cool, and the vid. looks nice and funny.2010-06-08 22:53:00

Author:
ferrrch
Posts: 429

I played this level a time ago. It was so great that I got a Idea of it to make 2 levels little bit same way: using a quests, you need to help people, not so much a platforming. Look for Lighthouse or Lady Luck Ship from me and you'll see. 2010-06-09 13:49:00

Author:
Unknown User

I suppose I really should get around to the sequel of this
Its been 4 months since this last level release. I'm still on the site a lot but work and other gaming seems to have pushed the creating out. Still got lots of ideas though.		2010-06-16 22:05:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

I suppose I really should get around to the sequel of this

Yes!!!! Make another one! This is one of my favorite levels ever!		2010-06-16 22:29:00

Author:
SackRacer77
Posts: 153

I suppose I really should get around to the sequel of this

Yes you should,
Ive been waiting for months for your return for crying out loud!
Or was I to clingy? 		2010-06-16 23:56:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136

You guys did end on a bit of a cliff hanger....2010-06-17 00:53:00

Author:
shebhnt
Posts: 414

A bit? lol.
I smell sarcasm 		2010-06-17 01:01:00

Author:
Luos_83
Posts: 2136


LBPCentral Archive Statistics
Posts: 1077139    Threads: 69970    Members: 9661    Archive-Date: 2019-01-19

Datenschutz
Aus dem Archiv wurden alle persönlichen Daten wie Name, Anschrift, Email etc. - aber auch sämtliche Inhalte wie z.B. persönliche Nachrichten - entfernt.
Die Nutzung dieser Webseite erfolgt ohne Speicherung personenbezogener Daten. Es werden keinerlei Cookies, Logs, 3rd-Party-Plugins etc. verwendet.