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The Shining Clock tower of Dreams

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The Shining Clock tower of DreamsLaharlKun
This is my very first "serious" level, where I spent many sleepless hours working on it. You are about to embark on a journey through a clock tower, where dreams become real, and the sky is the limit. Wander through the dreams of others, as you explore this ethereal dreamscape of wonder. This stage is best played with 1-2 players.

While this was created by me, it need be said that AeroForce22 helped so much, that he may as well be a co-creator. Also, this stage is very reliant upon the text. Please be sure to read all of it to get the full experience of the level.

I will do my best to F4F, but I am only available on weekends. I apologize if I do not get to you right away. Please enjoy the level!


http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo1.jpg
Welcome to the Tower
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo2.jpg
A bit of machinery
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo3.jpg
A mysterious voice...
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo4.jpg
Dive into the dreamscape...
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo5.jpg
In the ethereal, anything is possible...
http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h190/Laharl111/Photo6.jpg
Even 2x Players is possible.
Special thanks:
Yarudark/Silverleon: For your inspirational speech you gave me, when all hope was lost. I was honestly going to give up on creating ever again. Your words still ring in my ears, and if it weren't for you, this level wouldn't even be here. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

AeroForce22: You probably could have been doing a lot of other things, but instead you opted to help me with my stage, and deal with every single noobish mistake I made. I think 40% of the time I was creating this stage, you were there :3

Morgana25: For existing. What, that's not good enough? Alright XD. I'm including you because your levels inspired me to continue my work! What more of a reason for a thank than that? You also happen to be my LBP Idol :3

Last but not least, jump_button: Ever since I first played your levels, I was wowed for weeks. All I could think about was those stages, and how much I loved them. You're probably the biggest inspiration I've ever had on LBP. You're the greatest person I've never met 		2010-07-10 12:55:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

...ok...i couldn't finish the level...im sure its possible...but after spending about 10 minutes on one obstacle i had to give up. The area where you are on the spinning cogs trying to get through the electrified metal...the cogs are too big and too slow. I kept hitting the side while holding onto the spinner trying to get the momentum...and the speed was not enough to get up to the next cog. And when i finally did get up...i was just swung into the side again by the following cog...which im sorry to say pushed me over the edge. I'm not usually one to quit...i enjoy a challenge...but this one was a little bit frustrating.

Sorry

Shawn		2010-07-10 15:42:00

Author:
shawneboi
Posts: 221

You actually aren't supposed to use the momentum on that part. They move slow so you can stand on top of them and jump to the next cog. However, I'll fix this, as this was not immediately obvious.

Edit: The section with the cogs and electricity has now been fixed so that you can use momentum to reach the top. I have tested each cog to make sure you cannot get zapped while holding on to them, or squished by the side wall. Thanks for the feedback!		2010-07-10 20:35:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

I really enjoyed this level. The idea was great and the narrative was excellent to help along story. The criticism I have is against visual of the tower. it is relatively simple with the only material used is the rusty metal. Although things brighten up as you enter the dream portion. "Lighting the way with paint" was shear genius. I don't know if that has ever been used before but that was definately my favorite part and earns your level :star::star::star::star: and a <3.

P.S. I managed to make gears that interlock and don't break! U can find them as the level completion reward for my level series https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=30158-Teleportation-Devastation
Please try it and tell me what you think. Thanks!		2010-07-10 22:38:00

Author:
Unknown User

I really enjoyed this level. The idea was great and the narrative was excellent to help along story. The criticism I have is against visual of the tower. it is relatively simple with the only material used is the rusty metal. Although things brighten up as you enter the dream portion. "Lighting the way with paint" was shear genius. I don't know if that has ever been used before but that was definately my favorite part and earns your level :star::star::star::star: and a <3.

P.S. I managed to make gears that interlock and don't break! U can find them as the level completion reward for my level series https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=30158-Teleportation-Devastation
Please try it and tell me what you think. Thanks!

Thanks for the feedback! I'll get to your level shortly.

This is where I struggle the most, is visuals ^^ I couldn't think of what other material to use :/ I actually posted a thread on that issue. Do you have any suggestions of how I could go about improving the visuals? What materials to use, etc.?		2010-07-10 22:53:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

Hey Larharl. ^o^ Once I can get this level to load (lol) I'll play through it with all the new additions you made after I left last night and I'll let you know what I think. So far, yes, there are visual issues but there isn't much you can honestly do about that since the majority of the level is...well, one object. xD

If it's the way I remember, I'd probably rate it with :star: :star: :star: :star: because the gameplay and story were good. ^o^ Just visuals need work and I'm sure in your future levels you'll definitely see them progress (I certain do every level I make).

(And there's no need for crediting me. xD I only did a few minor things. ^o^)		2010-07-10 23:43:00

Author:
AeroForce22
Posts: 392

Well the first thing I recommend is that you never have the walls, ground, floor, and ceiling, the same material. here are some quick example i made to help me explain.

Here is close to what you used for the tower. Notice how the walls connect to the cieling and floor. this makes a very amateurish and simple feel to it.
http://i844.photobucket.com/albums/ab9/Grim-421/APhoto_6.jpg

Now here you can see that every part of the area is made of a different material. Even though they are different it still keeps the theme of the tower. Notice that the third level is unacessable. This adds a layer of depth then just having all three walls open.

(Materials used: Floor-Concrete, Background-Brown rusted metal, Ceiling-Weathered wood, Pillars-Grey rusted metal)
http://i844.photobucket.com/albums/ab9/Grim-421/APhoto_7.jpg

Lighting is very important to set the mood. You did very well with that but there is a next step. This lighting is unimportant for the level but helps to show the background and cogs that are important for your level. Also notice the use of the vent decoration.

http://i844.photobucket.com/albums/ab9/Grim-421/APhoto_8.jpg

Stickers are also very important but way more subtle. Look in the previous picture at the crack that adds realism. My favorite stickers are the ones under realistic because they are so flexable to use. look at this shot of the floor where I spammed the black smuge sticker.
http://i844.photobucket.com/albums/ab9/Grim-421/APhoto_9.jpg

i hoped this helps. just play a lot of levels and notice the subtle but important features that creates the setting.		2010-07-10 23:50:00

Author:
Unknown User

@Aero: You're more than deserving of your spot as co-creator :3

@Grim: Ohh...I see. That makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the help! I'll certainly keep that in mind. Oh and, I am actually an amateur at making stages ^^		2010-07-11 00:19:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

The Goods:
+ The intro is good. Feels like your inside of a clock
+ The spinning cog area is fun! Spinning is always good. Also you cameras were spot on until the top.
+ Level's very atmospheric. It sucks you into the level.
+ Dialogue is excellent. I was drawn into the script. (is the narrator(?) supposed to be god or the spirit of time or something?
+ Dream area is very good. The sideways trees were brilliant if you read the dialogue before hand.

Improvements:
- You need a custom level badge! It'll bring alot more plays if you do.
- I think you need a cutscene right after the intro because I thought there was more but I ran right off the edge XD
- The top of the spinning cog area in the beginning need a a camera. I could barely see I had to throw myself over there.
- The large spinning sponge need a camera pointing to where to land at. Couldnt see where to go. Its right after the moon/earth section.
- Also needs a checkpoint in the same section. If you die you have to walk all the way back.
- more decorations. some areas looked bare.

This level was awesome! Do you right plays or scripts? If anyone is reading this, this is a must play for people who like story driven levels. The gameplay is pretty good, too. I gave it 5 stars and a <3 definately and a Moody tag. Im glad I played this level. Ill have my friend sabre_ to play it as well since he loves scripted levels. if you need help with a level badge I could give some assistance 		2010-07-11 03:02:00

Author:
L1GhTmArE
Posts: 519

The Goods:
+ The intro is good. Feels like your inside of a clock
+ The spinning cog area is fun! Spinning is always good. Also you cameras were spot on until the top.
+ Level's very atmospheric. It sucks you into the level.
+ Dialogue is excellent. I was drawn into the script. (is the narrator(?) supposed to be god or the spirit of time or something?
+ Dream area is very good. The sideways trees were brilliant if you read the dialogue before hand.

Improvements:
- You need a custom level badge! It'll bring alot more plays if you do.
- I think you need a cutscene right after the intro because I thought there was more but I ran right off the edge XD
- The top of the spinning cog area in the beginning need a a camera. I could barely see I had to throw myself over there.
- The large spinning sponge need a camera pointing to where to land at. Couldnt see where to go. Its right after the moon/earth section.
- Also needs a checkpoint in the same section. If you die you have to walk all the way back.
- more decorations. some areas looked bare.

This level was awesome! Do you right plays or scripts? If anyone is reading this, this is a must play for people who like story driven levels. The gameplay is pretty good, too. I gave it 5 stars and a <3 definately and a Moody tag. Im glad I played this level. Ill have my friend sabre_ to play it as well since he loves scripted levels. if you need help with a level badge I could give some assistance

Wow, I couldnt help but smile and laugh as I read that. You give me too much credit :3 I don't write professionally, but it is something I've looked into. Writing is a hobby of mine that I've had since I was 6. I'm always writing short stories, and coming up with them. It's my dream to write and publish a book. I'm more of a word artist than a visual artist if you can't tell xP
The voice of the tower is whoever you perceive them to be. In this tower of dreams, perceptions are different among everyone. Every single one of our perceptions are unique, and who you perceive the voice of the tower to be, is merely your own perception. Do you believe that voice to be God? Or a talking pig? The possibilities of who that voice is is endless. :3 Did you like the neat twist at the end? That the tower is actually a culmination of my (As in, the real me)'s dreams?
Also, I'd appreciate it if you could help me with making a personal sticker! That would be very helpful. I actually...don't know what to make XD Oh and thanks so much for the feedback! I'll go fix those problems right away!		2010-07-11 03:20:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

Yes! I loved the plot twist. I loved the whole script. If your level was this good then I know your book would be. Also I found 1 secret in the tree area. Very clever . As for the badge I think I have something in mind I can make.2010-07-11 04:33:00

Author:
L1GhTmArE
Posts: 519

Hehe, there are actually 4 secrets, 3 of them can be done with one player, but the other one requires 2 :3 See if you can find them all....2010-07-11 04:56:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

Good level. luos, clarie and I played through last night. Gameplay and variety is excellent, but the visuals are holding you back. I liked all the cogs and objects, but there were a lot of bland walls. consider varying your textures or putting crack stickers and stuff like that around. Even simple things like borders or strips through textures can make a big difference.
Clarie was especially a big fan of the level. the b&w stuff made a good contrast too. Keep creating - and if you have the thermo - redo this level. It definately has spotlight potential with a re-edit.
adi		2010-07-11 07:08:00

Author:
TheAdipose
Posts: 533

Good level. luos, clarie and I played through last night. Gameplay and variety is excellent, but the visuals are holding you back. I liked all the cogs and objects, but there were a lot of bland walls. consider varying your textures or putting crack stickers and stuff like that around. Even simple things like borders or strips through textures can make a big difference.
Clarie was especially a big fan of the level. the b&w stuff made a good contrast too. Keep creating - and if you have the thermo - redo this level. It definately has spotlight potential with a re-edit.
adi
Sp-spotlight!? Surely you jest! I'm just an amateur. Theres no way this could be spotlight material....^^ I mean...wow. *is at a loss for words* Thanks so much for the feedback! I dunno what to say other than I'll be sure to go make things more visually pleasing!!		2010-07-11 07:51:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

Nice work,
I love the story. It's like a movie...great.
You have also some great special effect there.

4 Stars and a heart

Please play one of my level, too.

The Evil Pyramid is part 4 and Mystery Castle part 5 of my adventure series

Mystery Castle
https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=29342-Mystery-Castle

The Evil Pyramid
https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=28176-The-Evil-Pyramid		2010-07-11 21:57:00

Author:
Unknown User

Hey Laharl,

Thanks for playing SkyTemple that is one of my older levels and I suppose it is rather short. Perhaps one day I will add a puzzle to slow you down. Anyways onto the Shining Clock Tower of Dreams!

Likes:

Dialog was well written and interesting, I liked the light columns with the captions.
Setting and theme were contiguous and fun
I like the falling star effect very much but you should try and design your own stars for the emitters
Obstacles were well timed and fun, your also very good at using the daylight tool.
OMG the paint your way through the darkness idea was GENIUS!!


Suggestions:

Material Diversity - Pick a theme and stick with it. i tend to choose 4-5 materials, heart them, and use them throughout. Make the floor wall and layers more distinguishable like in the excellent example posted above.
Exposed Lights, place the lights inside or behind materials where they are not noticeable. I like to attach a proximity switch with the speed setting on to make the lights fade in and out nicely.
Rather than adding a comment saying Enter, make the room designed, illuminated, and aim the camera so that the player is coaxed in that direction. As a last resort slap an arrow sticker down.
I highly recommend adding more checkpoints and moving the checkpoints closer to the starting points of your obstacles. I went through with three other players and they had to run very far to get their buddies back during the spinning gears part.
Also might want to revisit your cameras and tweak them a little bit. Some are off center.


Your scenary, lighting, and camera direction all need a lot of work. However the well placed obstacles, innovative paint for light section, and extremely well written dialog make me want to award :star::star::star:

Keep at it man, you obviously have skills and my early levels looked a lot like that.

-DT		2010-07-12 07:47:00

Author:
dTOtheTEE
Posts: 183

Thanks! I did say in the description it is recommended for 1-2 players though It's possible with 4, but its hard to do. The camera angles would probably be better with less people. Also, I should fix that beginning "Enter" part. I wonder why thats there....Anyways, thanks very much for the feedback! Also, the paint through darkness was actually done by jump_button first....^^2010-07-12 09:38:00

Author:
Laharl
Posts: 152

Alright guy...second playthough was a success! The gameplay was the best part of the level...but as I said before...the visuals really bring this level down. I've read the other posts so I won't keep beating a dead horse...what i will say is that i loved the section where you had to paint the path...INGENIOUS!

Keep creating my friend...you have serious potential.

Shawn		2010-07-15 02:30:00

Author:
shawneboi
Posts: 221

Yeah as my partner L1gHtMaRe said I liked scripted levels and yours was very good

Positives:
- Dialogue was very good
- Paintanator part was pretty good
- Dream Area

Negatives:
- Need ur own button pic L1gHtMaRe has it ready 4 you
- used one material (not too bad) just good to mix the materials

Overall I liked it:star::star::star::star:		2010-07-15 05:59:00

Author:
Sabre_
Posts: 653

Quite honestly, it wasn't the best level I've played. But I do see a lot of great potential! Just keep on truckin 4 stars.2010-07-25 22:00:00

Author:
Melted_Gummybear
Posts: 162

The level could use more visuals by adding more materials and decorations but it was an fun level. There's some great use of gears and the machinery movement visuals gave this level a nice visual. I also enjoyed the paintinator when you're near the end of the level. The lighting on the other hand was the best of the level. Keep it up. 4 stars.

Play and F4F "The Hero Chronicles LV5 Glacier Volcano".		2010-07-30 22:55:00

Author:
JustinArt
Posts: 1314


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