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

Vile Anchorage

Archive: 40 posts


Vile AnchorageLockstitch
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TJ8DeQwxxYI/AAAAAAAAACo/qj3QOa4nEIs/s144/A%20Photo_3.jpgIn a dark corner of the world, massive vessels lay wrecked and twisted amid jagged rocks. Having washed ashore here, sackboy must now confront the danger that calls from within...
Hey LBPC, I'm very excited to present to you my newest level: "Vile Anchorage"

In this level sackboy finds himself in a graveyard of destroyed ships. However, the rocky coast is not the sole cause of their demise. Something sinister and magical lurks within that has been actively building this decaying field of vessels.

My focus for this level, like my last two, was innovative platforming. As such, story again takes a backseat to the gameplay elements. I have however, made some modifications to this level based on feedback from my previous levels. You will find the visual style to be different, the difficulty more towards a challenging setting and a lower 2-way switch count.

Lastly, I must give a big thanks to ToykyoMegaplex, who on numerous occasions popped in when I was stuck, and shared with me some of his own great platforming ideas. At least three parts of this level were directly inspired by him.

Here's some pictures and I hope you enjoy it!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TJ8Deaum86I/AAAAAAAAACs/FHUW_n-XWN8/s144/A%20Photo_4.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TJ8DegqfAII/AAAAAAAAACw/v0d_AcoxJzg/s144/A%20Photo_5.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TJ8DeQwxxYI/AAAAAAAAACo/qj3QOa4nEIs/s144/A%20Photo_3.jpg
2010-09-26 15:45:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415


Looks epic, I'll try to play ASAP!2010-09-26 15:46:00

Author:
X-FROGBOY-X
Posts: 1800


It is epic!

Incredible atmosphere: scary, sinister, unusual.

Mechanics are top-notch as usual

I love the way your levels incorporate a great deal of back-tracking too... it shows that everything has been planned before hand.

And the hint of a story to go along with it

I honestly don't think I've played a better level... on lbp1

5 stars and a massive heart!
2010-09-26 15:49:00

Author:
ladylyn1
Posts: 836


This level is one of the best levels i have ever played,

The visuals were amazing, it has nice lighting and awesome decoration. Along this you made a nice use of the corner edit tool.(as always)

The game-play is unique and soo innovative. I simply love all the moving presentations and contraptions, they give the level an unique touch. Finally i loved the character design it was nicely done.

Good job, i rated it 5* and hearted it.

Ps. Sorry about yesterday.
2010-09-26 16:40:00

Author:
ferrrch
Posts: 429


Excellent, it's out! I'll be sure to play this later as I know you've put a great deal of work into it!2010-09-26 16:43:00

Author:
iGotFancyPants
Posts: 1355


Hey, I gave this level a play and here's what I thought.

As usual, you've added some terrific gameplay in this level. I really liked the platforms that shoot you up although I have learned it works better with 1 playeron it at a time. Another thing I really liked was how you put a little it of magic in this pne just like every other one like with the platforms flipping upsideown while going upward. I lovd the old, pirate ship look to it and the lighting was good. I also liked the mosaic you made for it, it was nice. Yet again, you prove to be able to make a level with a great use of stickers/decorations and materials, great lighting, amazing and unique gameplay and one interesting icon. :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3 Awesome job Lock This level has been mentioned on my blog by the way.
2010-09-26 16:58:00

Author:
Dragonvarsity
Posts: 5208


Will play immediatley! Your levels are such a treat to play.2010-09-26 17:28:00

Author:
piggabling
Posts: 2979


Awesome job! A wonderful level with some very new gameplay elements and makes you wonder about how you made it. Glad to see the final thing. 2010-09-26 18:11:00

Author:
Toykyo
Posts: 19


Absolutely incredible job! I loved all the innovative platforming bits, the lighting and visuals were superb, and I also liked how you tried to create a bit of a story in this one.
I was a little surprised when the end came, for I thought there would be some climactic ending with sackboy defeating the evil magic that lurked in the ship graveyard. Then again, the level was so packed that I doubt there was room for an epic boss battle, and that may also have ruined the tone you had set with the rest of the level.

I thought you should have had a camera angle change where the direction of the floating platform switched by the spider mosaic. I was a little confused where to go at that part, and I didn't get a chance to see what it looked like when the platform starting moving at a different angle.

Also, I was able to reach the area prematurely where you had to pull the switch that made those pieces of the ship float and rotate. I saw the three point bubbles up on the ledge, so I went onto the platform that ascended into the spikes, but jumped off early, and I was there without having to go through the bit of platforming on the other side.

Overall the level was incredible though, it was probably, if not certainly, my favorite level in LBP and I can't wait to see what you can come up with in the future! I love how every one of your levels has at least two things that I have never seen before in LBP, which is a major accomplishment.

I also loved the character design; it was simply stunning. The mosaic with the wolf and the mountains was gorgeous too, it fit in so beautifully with the music and gave this eerie feel that is rarely accomplished in any other level.

I gave the level :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3, plus a well-deserved author heart Great job!!

I would really appreciate it if you could leave feedback for my Spy Chronicles Part 2 level. Thanks!!
2010-09-26 22:59:00

Author:
wolverinebball2
Posts: 55


This level was incredible! You must have some magical abitlty to make a level look great, play great, and flat out amaze people! I'm also in awe at how you use the tools and bend the "rules" to make platforms move in ways I wouldn't even think was possible. The level was just a breath of fresh air to me. You really seemed to kind of step out of your comfort zone and still create a masterpiece of a level.

:star::star::star::star::star: and <3

I can't wait to see what you come out with in the future; LBP and LBP2!
2010-09-26 23:11:00

Author:
piggabling
Posts: 2979


Outstanding level. The platforming is indeed as brilliant as your other 2 levels and the shipwreck design looked amazing. The obstacles that move will leave anyone breathless and the mermaid design is ingenious. The only flaw is that I saw some dark matter with a piston attached somewhere but it's hard to explain where. Overall, excellent job on this masterpiece. 5 :star:s and a <3.2010-09-26 23:46:00

Author:
JustinArt
Posts: 1314


Finally got to play this. I thought the challenge was good but still a little on the easy side. I guess like medium difficulty I would say which is pretty good. You have some nice contraptions in this one. I mostly liked the one with the spikes that move in a semi-circle that you can jump in. That was something I havent seen done. The level did end kind of oddly. I was expecting a boss fight too of some sort. I did run into 1 exploit. Theres a section where theres 3 platforms where the bottom is a sponge and the other is wood. They flip in a certain sequence too. I had grabbed the last platform and it threw me to the upper section bypassing a small section of the level. I mightve been a fluke though. Anyway it was a nice level without a doubt. 5 star/ <3. Why the change from Sirens Keep to Vile Anchorage? Just wondering as they both sound good.2010-09-27 06:04:00

Author:
L1GhTmArE
Posts: 519


After playing this level a few times I must say the design is astounding. My first playthrough I was a little confused in some spots. I found myself wondering whether or not I had already been by them, but on subseuqent plays I got a better sense of how it all fit together and was able to appreciate it more fully. For the most part everything worked very well and it was fun to play.

Here are a few things that might help improve the level. I personally think zooming the camera out further in some spots would be beneficial to peoples appreciation of the mechanics in the level. Also if you made some areas more unique through using different decorations or lighting effects it would help. To me the choice of wood material with all the horizontal lines made most of the level look very similar. The song choice also seemed a little off though I fully understand why you used it. Lastly, and this is purely subjective and I doubt you'd change it I would never use the word vile to describe anchorage.

In summation the design of the level was amazing and a few minor technical changes might improve it.

Edit: I didn't think you meant the city. Perhaps I should have said an anchorage. I just think that old wooden ships have a very alluring quality to them and aren't displeasing.
2010-09-27 08:02:00

Author:
MofoSuperVillain
Posts: 88


Another awesome work!
I always remain astonished by your skills and I'm always pleased that your stuff is pure platforming fun.
Can't wait to see what you will do in LBP2.

2 things...the mermaid is the genie disguised, I spotted her
And you should surprise a bit more with the endings, they're becoming predictable
2010-09-27 08:07:00

Author:
OmegaSlayer
Posts: 5112


Lastly, and this is purely subjective and I doubt you'd change it I would never use the word vile to describe anchorage.



In the title I used "Anchorage" as in defining a place where ships anchor out from land. Has nothing to do with Anchorage Alaska if thats what you took it as. Perhaps I should change it b/c many people automatically think I mean the city...




...the mermaid is the genie disguised, I spotted her

Yeah, I almost didn't use that character, but I had already built her to be the evil genie in my planned sequel to "A Realm Forgotten" Once I scapped that Idea I just didn't have the heart to throw her away....so she picked up a tail and some forks instead.
2010-09-27 12:27:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415


Well: just to see "lokstich" being the thread-starter let me play this level asap!!! :-) Can't wait to play and I have high expectations cause A Realm Fogotten and Granite Gardens are sooooo good! ....2010-09-27 12:36:00

Author:
(___NEO___)
Posts: 206


Another awe-inspiring level. Wow!
Great intro -text too.
2010-09-27 14:24:00

Author:
pickled-punk
Posts: 598


So, I played this jewel a few minutes ago.

Well, em, er, what can I say? You made my day Lokstich. Just another breathtaking excellent level out of your mindfactory!

To start IN the water is funny :-) Nice idea. And I really have to say: your other levels looks great but his one hits the nail. I love the visuals and the ship-wreck theme - I know you defenitely had your reasons for using this mystic music-theme due to the story behind this level, but I would have loved to hear one of the pirate's songs here and maybe switched to this mystic music later in the level.

Well, the plattforming: there are some repetitive elements here like the 180? spike-box, but these elements never get boring to me. You did a great job of inventing some fresh and new plattforming ideas! The grey pillows on at least two ceilings which slides slowly to the other side due to your weight when you hang on the pillows are very cool. The usage of the 3 layers is awesome - so many layer-changes for the passways - pretty cool! I didn't found any glitches or issues here... oh, wait: right at the start I fell down and got squeezed between wood-pieces (and I think this wasn't the idea there, but I couldn't describe the exact location of this spot), and LOL that's really not an issue ... But I think there is one thing (if this has not been posted already): you should add an info that the siren's battle will follow in part two cause I wonder a bit as I see the scoreboard without facing this evil bride! Nevertheless, I also wonder how you managed the thermo - so much stuff, your thermo must be burning...

Amazing level Lokstich - nothing else than :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3 !!!

Thank you for this level! So awesome....
2010-09-27 14:54:00

Author:
(___NEO___)
Posts: 206


Amazing work LockStitch, you've really made a name for yourself so far! Three fantastic levels, with this one being my favorite. Like your previous two, the corner editing was spot on, and there was a ton of innovative, fun gameplay! I loved the shifting spiked platform, it had very natural feeling to it. And that character that you made was really cool too, it makes me think that there should've been another one in Granite Gardens. Like you said in the OP, you've really cranked up the difficulty in this one, the visual style was different from your other two, and there wasn't as many two-way switches, I'd say all three of those things are a turn for the better. Overall, marvelous work, :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3!2010-09-27 22:01:00

Author:
X-FROGBOY-X
Posts: 1800


it makes me think that there should've been another one in Granite Gardens.

Hehe, yeah, I've become kinda unhappy with Granite Gardens myself. I pushed that level out in one week, as it was my last summer week off before I started a new teaching job. So...my next semi-project is a overhaul of that level...well maybe not an overhaul, but a few notable additions to give it more of a spark.
2010-09-28 00:22:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415


Breathtaking visuals, excellent gameplay, innovative level all around! You have managed to make my jaw hit the floor once again with this stunning level that was a joy to play from start to finish. I look forward to your future works! 5 Stars...a Heart for you and your level...
Thanks
Shawn
2010-09-28 04:13:00

Author:
shawneboi
Posts: 221


Oh!! I will need to play this it seems. I love all your levels so far.2010-09-28 09:03:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901


Just amazing level design (again!). I'm always in awe of creators that treat the three layers as if they were three seperate play areas, and the way you utilize them in certain places here is so so clever. Plus its always fun to see a route unfold (literally here) from somewhere you don't expect. Really creative platforming like all your stuff, loved it! I thought the lighting could be a bit moodier and darker overall to maybe help the ominous vibe of the level but it doesn't really detract one jot from the enjoyment of it. I actually really like 'Vile Anchorage' as a title too, its memorable.2010-09-28 18:02:00

Author:
julesyjules
Posts: 1156


This level is really excellent. I loved everything on it: the music, the visuals, the story. A sequel would be nice! Many thanks to Lockstitch for his great work2010-09-28 19:34:00

Author:
Unknown User


I can honestly say this level has easily made it into my top five, along with Post-Apocalyptic and Zephyr Valley 2. The gameplay was innovative, fresh and inventive. It never got old, and I believe this level should be used as an example for all creators making a platformer. The visuals were nothing to laugh at either. There wasn't a sticker out of place, and the use of materials were varied yet all fit the theme. The only thing I could think of to add is some more dynamic lighting, as it felt most of it was the same in lighting. Other than that, the level was almost perfect, and I'd reccomend it to all. :star::star::star::star::star: and a <32010-09-30 01:09:00

Author:
srgt_poptart
Posts: 425


Played this level yesterday and I was amazed! Excellent use of gameplay mechanics! I loved the spiky things that moved in semi-circles - great idea! It flowed very nicely! Atmosphere was very good and the materials were spot on! Really great work here! Gave it 5 stars and a heart man. Good job!2010-09-30 01:54:00

Author:
iGotFancyPants
Posts: 1355


Played it and it was awesome.2010-09-30 10:26:00

Author:
hookiman
Posts: 1


Liked the level design in this one.
I especially liked that part where you are walking in the back layer behind the planks, some of them are missing, letting you see glimpses of your sackboy as you walk down the path. Just one of the small details which makes this level enjoyable to play though.
2010-09-30 12:14:00

Author:
midnight_heist
Posts: 2513


I played this when I was absolutely bored outta my mind. I'm glad I did too. It was so fun that I decided to replay your other levels as well.

Although I must say I almost expected a boss somewhere or something popping up when there's water around.
2010-09-30 12:14:00

Author:
siberian_ninja15
Posts: 444


Finally played this last night. I would rank it second among your three levels thus far (all of which are amazing). One thing I noticed in this level moreso than your other levels was that I found it challenging to get to all the scoring bubbles, which I really like. Also, some great scoring chains could be achieved if planned correctly. Thus, Vile Anchorage has the best replay value for me so far of all your levels. I loved starting in the water. Also, I expected a boss fight at the end of the level but perhaps a sequel could explain further. Great work!

5 stars and hearted.
2010-10-02 17:39:00

Author:
Dorktron2000
Posts: 33


You sure you made this is LBP? This level is too good to be true.

I really enjoyed this level! One of the best levels I've actually played up-to-date! It had a good story, easy to navigate, not too hard, not too easy. Visuals were outstanding, and it was just plain fun! In all seriousness, words cannot describe this level, as words do not have meanings strong enough to describe it.
2010-10-02 23:41:00

Author:
Phosphorus15
Posts: 463


Hey, I have found two more places to get out of the level since I was last with you, Lockstitch, I'll show you when you get on.2010-10-03 01:52:00

Author:
GreatWhite000
Posts: 673


This level is incredible man. It's your best so far. It's everything that made your previous ones good but you went further by adding some story and a bit more action. I am impressed I must say. You're really good at visuals and yet again you found an excellent combination of material. I also see some "Lockstitch style" installing itself here. Your contraptions are fabulous and original. It's sort of becoming your trademark. Continue to let go of your imagination into those great ideas.

:star::star::star::star::star: + <3

2010-10-03 06:17:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901


I honestly don't think I've played a better level... on lbp1

i haven't played a better level on lbp2

it's perfect. couldn't find a flaw if you were cross eyed and color blind. playing your levels for the first time is like seeing a new magic trick, and i agree with ranger... there's a specific brand of this style exclusive to you starting to solidify itself here. kinda like when "MM quality" was outdone long ago and went it's own route with the style
2010-10-05 08:10:00

Author:
Unknown User


Why in the world is this thread rated 4 stars? Out of all of the levels on this forum, this should definitely be a 5 star level. I played this again yesterday, studying each little piece, and realized just how amazing the level really is.2010-10-07 00:52:00

Author:
piggabling
Posts: 2979


Ok heres my 2nd review! Yay!

Pros-
.Amazing scenery
.Fun platforming
.Genius logic- not that i would know
.Entertaining
.Great use of materials
.Good for any number of players (i played with a friend)

Cons(dun dun dun!)-
.more dialog
.story
.more puzzles- there were more puzzles in previous levels


:star: :star: :star: :star: :star: and one more if possible :star: and a great big <3.
2010-10-07 06:17:00

Author:
AA_BATTERY
Posts: 1117


Amazing job here yet again! I can't believe that I forgot to leave feedback sooner.

As you said in the OP, this level definitely does have a different visual style from your previous two levels. But there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, for the level looks absolutely amazing! The way you utilize all your layers, and the way you use them, really adds to the visuals! Now your gameplay and the mechanics that you had in the level were, yet again, stunning. It just boggles my mind how you're able to come up with all these new, fresh gameplay elements I've never seen before in any other levels. I was honored to be a beta tester and had a complete blast playing and watching this level be constructed. Great job man! Keep up the good work!

And of course, five stars and a heart!
2010-10-09 20:57:00

Author:
eagerneph
Posts: 1536


Your prowess with logic and complex moving parts never ceases to amaze.

Really enjoyed this level. You have this spartan but stylish visual style that is so perfect for showcasing the complexity of your gameplay and the ever changing areas of platforming. Your really setting the bar very high for anyone who'd like to be considered a great technical designer.

Keep it up - I love playing your work!

5 stars & hearted.
2010-10-12 06:50:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983


Managed to play this yesterday, I've been trying to load it for days! xD

While different from your other levels I'd instantly know it was yours, you have such a knack for moving parts; How did you get the rotating spike things to bounce? Just wondering.

Design was top-notch, you get such a clean, natural look with so few vertices! I liked the character too, but weird you only saw her once though. I loved the grooves in the wall for the afformentioned rotating spike things, thought it was a cool touch! Liked the gameplay too, so overall a great experience! Nice job!

http://i.neoseeker.com/mgv/272671-Blackfalcon/671/5/animal0064hb2_display.gif
2010-10-16 13:01:00

Author:
Blackfalcon
Posts: 409


AWESOME LEVEL OF AWESOME AWESOMENESS.

32 Plays when I got there How many now? I haven't checked

Well yeah, it was awesome (see above) How do you manage to make platforms move in directions?? (expression not question) I should really comment on your other one... forgot name.....

C'mon! THINK!

It's..... GRANITE GARDENS (awesome [see above])

You did the bendy rule thing there to
2010-10-18 07:33:00

Author:
mutant_red_peas
Posts: 516


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.