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Obsidian Depths

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Obsidian DepthsLockstitch
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TQ6D7l9Ud1I/AAAAAAAAAD0/g-o9aEMu3n0/s144/A%20Photo_1.jpgThe bell tolls thrice. The flame flickers and dies. Sackboy opens his eyes to the darkness...
Hey LBPC, I'm very excited to present my newest level: "Obsidian Depths." I've been working on it off and on for the last three months, so its great to see it complete.

In this level sackboy finds himself banished to a realm of darkness. He must find the ruler of the land in order to receive passage back to the worlds above.

The level focuses on platforming once again. However, you'll find this level considerably darker than my previous ones. I've also attempted to add more of a story bit to the level.

Anyway, hope you have fun and let me know what you think. Thanks!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TQ6D7l9Ud1I/AAAAAAAAAD0/g-o9aEMu3n0/s144/A%20Photo_1.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TQ6D7i1Dq0I/AAAAAAAAADw/WO9t2G6aT0k/s144/A%20Photo.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_yIEK1lDrzR0/TQ6D7svTsrI/AAAAAAAAAD4/KPeZvUKRpag/s144/A%20Photo_2.jpg		2010-12-19 22:25:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415

A nice change of pace for you. You have expanded your range from bright vibrant levels to a darker yet fun environment. The gameplay is top notch as always and the inclusion of a story line felt right in place. Thanks for keeping lbp1 alive for this last month while the rest of us wait for things to come.

5 stars and a heart.

Shawn		2010-12-20 00:58:00

Author:
shawneboi
Posts: 221

Hey lockstitch! You are a great creator when I went to lbp.me earlier, I saw that you published this. Looks good can't wait to play! I will say what I think if I don't forget lol.2010-12-20 01:06:00

Author:
morris6267
Posts: 144

Wooh, another Lockstitch level! Would you say this is yor last for LBP1? The movers from LBP2 seem like they're your sorta thing.2010-12-20 02:27:00

Author:
booXely
Posts: 654

As soon as I saw this post, I rushed to type this and am now going to get my lockstitch fanatic and play this level right away! Lockstitch, your levels are so amazing I am literally excited to go play! Create on man!2010-12-20 03:05:00

Author:
ATMLVE
Posts: 1177

Ok, I played the level, and this is what I thought.

The visuals were super awesome, I loved the theme. The little spike blocks going through the wobble bolt circles were very unique, flawless and well done. The bars the push you up on a half circle, the go back down, and push you up again was my favorite mechanic, as well as the circles that you grab, and they go up and spin around; super unique and well done, my favorite part. However, some of the gameplay seemed to be lacking; the very beginning got a little frustrating for me, and some parts I spent a little while trying to figure out what to do. I know this is going to go against what tons of people have said, but I actually preferred GG and RF over your second two levels; the ones that didnt have any challenge, and you just wanted to see what amazing thing would happen when you pulled the next switch. There are a million levels out there that are challenging platformers, but your first two levels were just different and unique, like nothing else anywhere. The style was different those too; it was more solid, I guess, but that doesnt do a very good job explaining. ANYWAY, overall I gave Obsidian Depths 4 stars and a heart. Amazing work as always lockstitch, keep up the awesome stuff!		2010-12-20 03:38:00

Author:
ATMLVE
Posts: 1177

The level looks awesome! I'll have to check it out when I can2010-12-20 04:19:00

Author:
Spazz
Posts: 484

This is what a level should be. Great use of materials and the lighting was top notch. Everything flowed very well with some new mechanics that moved like a well oiled machine. I'm glad to see you go in a different direction than your previous levels. I loved all of those as well, but I think that this shows players that you are a very diversified creator.
Congatulations on this masterpiece. :star::star::star::star::star:<3		2010-12-20 05:04:00

Author:
Xx_Mr_Orange_xX
Posts: 115

Once again lock, you have astounded me as you drew me into your world of imagination, moving platforms and spikes. I love the Wedding theme, and I don't know why more people don't re-create it more often. Too many Canyons levels out there these days. *looks at sig* You had some very creative, fresh new obstacles in this one, as you do every time. The visuals were nothing to laugh at either, the Wedding theme was done to perfection, with you adding your own little twist.

One of my favorute levels I've played to date, :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3 from me. 		2010-12-20 05:38:00

Author:
booXely
Posts: 654

I've pretty much given you my verdict for this level on LBP, but why not state it here for good measure?

This is a very good level. Play it.

2010-12-20 14:16:00

Author:
Mr_T-Shirt
Posts: 1477

I was lucky enough to be with Locksticth when he was just beggining the theme, and experimenting with visuals waaaaay back, and now it turned out as a great level! 2010-12-20 17:11:00

Author:
iBubek
Posts: 682

Hey Lockstitch! Incredible style to this level! Every detail looked perfectly in place and not a thing looked out of balance! I loved the innovation in this level that always comes with your levels and am always pleasantly surprised by what you drum up. I liked how there was a little more with the story in this level, and the characters looked outstanding! I will definitely have to play this one again, like the rest of your levels, and I gave :star::star::star::star::star: and a <32010-12-20 18:22:00

Author:
Jayhawk_er
Posts: 403

Ok, I played the level, and this is what I thought.

The visuals were super awesome, I loved the theme. The little spike blocks going through the wobble bolt circles were very unique, flawless and well done. The bars the push you up on a half circle, the go back down, and push you up again was my favorite mechanic, as well as the circles that you grab, and they go up and spin around; super unique and well done, my favorite part. However, some of the gameplay seemed to be lacking; the very beginning got a little frustrating for me, and some parts I spent a little while trying to figure out what to do. I know this is going to go against what tons of people have said, but I actually preferred GG and RF over your second two levels; the ones that didnt have any challenge, and you just wanted to see what amazing thing would happen when you pulled the next switch. There are a million levels out there that are challenging platformers, but your first two levels were just different and unique, like nothing else anywhere. The style was different those too; it was more solid, I guess, but that doesnt do a very good job explaining. ANYWAY, overall I gave Obsidian Depths 4 stars and a heart. Amazing work as always lockstitch, keep up the awesome stuff!

Yeah I hear ya. And yes many said my earlier levels lacked challenge. I doubt I will make them that easy again.... However, I think for my next I will go back to a 'cleaner,' less cluttered/complicated design.

Thanks for the input!		2010-12-20 22:27:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415

waw its a nice lvl like always with a lot of funny obstacles,i loved it2010-12-21 17:52:00

Author:
xkjz3l
Posts: 113

Hey Lockstitch,

I had the opportunity to try out your newest level and have to say WOW. Just when I thought you couldn't set the bar any higher, you had to come up with this level. You know that makes creators such as myself both frustrated and angry,LOL . The theme is very different from your usual style, but exquisitly refreshing none the less. Still, you were able to add your classical touch of the bridge shooting up to form. There were new features such as the spinning bridge to cross with the spiked catapult. That was both original and refreshing to see. Great ob as always. 5:star:and <3ed.

It would mean alot if you could try out my latest level "Lost Ruins of Panatra" and offer any feedback. I had the privaledge of LFiers trying out my level and his feedback as well. Thanks and can't wait to see what you're gonna do in LBP2		2010-12-21 21:21:00

Author:
tripple_sss
Posts: 250

It would mean alot if you could try out my latest level "Lost Ruins of Panatra" and offer any feedback. I had the privaledge of LFiers trying out my level and his feedback as well. Thanks and can't wait to see what you're gonna do in LBP2

Ah yes... Interesting time that I happened to come on here and post right aftter triple_sss saying that. Well I just thought I'd second that, and say "Lost Ruins of Panatra" is a level I thoroughly enjoyed. Free advertising triple_sss.

Ok about Obsidian Depths... First off let me just say it is a genuine 5 star level in my eyes. I love the 'flipping spinner' that nicely gives you a boost up to the next part like like a good sumaritan. Also, the spiked platforms the move in and out through a nice 'rotating hallway' so to speak. And I must say, the big guy (I wont say to not spoil) is by far you're coolest character by far. Simply awesome design... but for me, and this may surprise you, although they were good it wasn't even any of the mechanics that were the biggest standout of me. It was the ending. Yeah it was much more simple then your previous efforts but I was pleasently surprised how great and effective it was and give you mad kudos for it... or happy, kudos!? Either way, nice idea! Tick tock.

Anyway I did find the level to a little too dark in certain areas but this may not be a fault of your own as I have a premium Panasonic Viera HD plasma flatscreen and the the blacks and black black. Much blacker what an LCD can display due to not being backlit & each individual pixels 'turning' off the create black as opposed to an LCD which inherently still bleeds some light light through the black . So it could be that.

All up, great work dude! Its what I consider a bonus as most good creators won't be making another level till LBP2 comes out so again, cheers for the gameplay Lockstich! 		2010-12-22 04:23:00

Author:
LFiers
Posts: 161

This is a great level. You've given us another amazing platformer just in time for Christmas...



I'd love to see any other levels you make.




Obsidian Depths combines your usual (but awesome) platforming and visual genius with an objective for the player to follow, the clock thing. I noticed your other levels didn't particularly have something the player must do in the level. This one has basically combined all the mechanics and gameplay a very very good level needs with a story. This level will be massive (or if it's already massive, bigger than it is already).




Can't wait to see what you do on LBP2 		2010-12-22 07:42:00

Author:
mutant_red_peas
Posts: 516

One of the best weddings themed level to date. I Love all the contraptions but the thing I liked the most is the small effect used on the checkpoints. Its a small effect but very effective. Love the challenge and the rare opportunities to get combos. Ill keep my spot atop the scoreboard when its unlocked. (I have key glitched )2010-12-22 14:24:00

Author:
L1GhTmArE
Posts: 519

This is an awesome level, it includes some awesome LBP ideas the only someone like you could think of. Awesome work, I'm quite surprised by this level as it very diferent from your previous levels, I mean this one was a lot darker and includes more of a story. What surprised me most was how easy the level was, right now I'm not sure if I preffer the old Lockstitch or the new one, but all I can tell you is that this level was awesome so either way I know you'll make some great LBP2 levels. Something that has always amazed me is that you created some legendary logos and those killer, ummm what you call em, you know those things you see when your loding the level, yea those things, you have to show me how make and come up with those ideas and logos. Anyway this level is great, for those of you who havent played it, you must get on your ps3 right now and play this level its AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! Keep up the good work, :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3 keep those levels coming Lockstitch 2010-12-23 10:53:00

Author:
nillrecuring
Posts: 104

Thanks for all the great feedback guys! Many have commented on the changes in my new level compared to my old. I want to comment that it's not necessarily that I'm changing my style.... Just that I'm searching for ways to keep my creative process fresh. Spending 100+ hours on levels gets tedious as many of you know...I'd get bored if the style stayed too simlar. So Ill probably keep trying some new approaches in upcoming projects.2010-12-25 05:47:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415

Ill probably keep trying some new approaches in upcoming projects.

Words of the wise. Seriously though this is a great approach from any good creator. Playing it safe and always adhering to ones much loved styles can and will most definitely please the fans but may rapidly get stale and boring to the creater, hindering and even eventually impairing the motivation for creation in the first place. Having the balls to throw yourself out of your comfort zone here and there to constantly come up with new ways to impress yourself and others can be a great thing for both creator and player... aslong as they don't completely lose what made them great in the first place.

Anyway I'm sure I don't need to say this again but great work on this level. Keep 'em coming Lock!		2010-12-26 17:08:00

Author:
LFiers
Posts: 161

Yet again, another outstanding level by LockStitch. Just like all your levels, this one does not fail to surprise and amaze me in every aspect. Your visuals are top notch, everything fits extremely well with the materials that you chose to work with this time around. Of course, your gameplay is very unique, there are always new obstacles in every one of your levels that I've never seen before anywhere else. That's why I enjoy your levels so much. Everything is popping out, moving, rotating, and things of that sort. It really does make the level much more fun. I'm looking forward to your next level!

And, of course, Five Stars and a Heart.		2010-12-27 21:58:00

Author:
eagerneph
Posts: 1536

I just finished this level, and I'd have to say its your best yet. I liked how you used more simple geometry in the architecture; I felt that it balanced out all the corner editing. The platforming bits were great, you always seem to find new gameplay mechanics that I've never seen in any other level before. You built some really interesting contraptions in this level and I can't wait to see what you can do in LBP2. I also liked the characters a lot, but I just wish they did more. In all of your levels you build these really great characters but all they ever seem to do is say something along the lines of "There's the exit." That's a pretty minor complaint though. I still had tons of fun playing through it.

I gave it :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3.

P.S.: You always have the best ways of revealing the scoreboard.		2010-12-28 20:36:00

Author:
Doc_Rockefeller
Posts: 7

I've enjoyed playing your levels over the last couple of months, ( not so much the various imitators of your work) the cause and effect type gameplay is splendid, the architecture and visual interface very aesthetically pleasing BUT this level is by far my favourite!
It represents a step forward as I felt more involved in terms of participation rather than throwing switches and seeing effects unfold. The atmosphere is amazing, I see some reference to the wedding theme from MM but this far surpasses that in terms of dark subliminal uneasiness. The materials,stickering, lighting and decorations really work together to make a unique enviroment combined with the subtle lighting, sound and spot effects.
The gameplay mechanisams and devices are superlative, at all times seeming to have been implemented for a direct purpose rather than incidental effect. The central figure looked suitably mysterious and macabre, the added story acting efficiently to drive the action.
Some extremely small points that I may be wrong about,

- on one of the mouths the suggestion was to "entend" the bridge maybe a typo that should read extend ?

-one of the mouths produces it's speech directly over the face of the character spoiling the effect, maybe re-positioning the mouth not to obscure and add to the impact of the image.

- when using mouths try to keep the dialogue as succinct and purposeful as possible, if using multiple mouths in the same instance remember to adjust the camera angle between each successive mouth to add a dynamic quality, maybe zoom in each time?

All of which does not effect the enjoyment of the level as most sack folk are impatient litter critters who generally click through without reading.

In synopsis, one of the best levels I've ever played....far outshining the levels of MM, 5 starred and hearted.
Once again shows how much undiscovered potential LBP classic has and questions the early release of LBP2.
This will be the level I show to friends over the coming weeks to show what it is possible to create on LBP..their jaws will undoubtedly gape open in awe!		2010-12-29 12:33:00

Author:
EnochRoot
Posts: 533

I was happy to see your response from a few days ago... because it's so true. Alot of creators never feel the need to rise above or move beyond. This level is very good. As was vile anchorage... In fact the only wrong with them is-- I didn't enjoy them as much as your first two! (..er not your first two but you know what I mean). Anyway, keep evolving! You ushered in like your own wave of LBP1 style levels... with LBP2, I know your one of the creators I am specifically looking to. No pressure, just a fact.2010-12-31 05:54:00

Author:
Gravel
Posts: 1308

It represents a step forward as I felt more involved in terms of participation rather than throwing switches and seeing effects unfold.
Music to my ear holes!
Queued since I cannot play it atm. =(
As with Gravel, looking foward to your approach in LBP2 as well. 		2010-12-31 20:26:00

Author:
midnight_heist
Posts: 2513

Awesome level dude!
No doubt you're the best level builder of this last period of life of LBP. It's nice to see you're triying to improve into new ways of making levels and not repeating the success formula of your two firsts levels.
The atmosphere is fantastic and original, and the gameplay mechanics fit very well in the level, though I'd still love to see some more new things in your future levels like some enemies, or maybe a twist in the middle of the level? maybe some kind of vehicle? a boss fight?
All your levels are top 5 star stuff, but I found this level to be a bit better that your previous "Vile Anchorage" wich being still awesome I found some parts of it a bit "slow".
Also with LBP1 being sentenced to die next 19 of January, it's a pleasure to play this littlebig gems wich deserve to be in any serious hearted list.
I won't tell you the tipical sentence "I can't wait to see what you come up with LBP2", because I highly doubt much better things than this will be done in LBP2 		2011-01-02 09:21:00

Author:
poms
Posts: 383

OK, so I played it.
+ I loved your square skull lights.
+ The thing that rotates 180, block slides down, then repeats.

Two things I didn't like about it:
- The pace at the start. It's rather slow. You have to run foward, wait for the camera, then wait for the block to move into position.
I would flip the entry/coffin horizontally, to make it eaiser on the playing to get going.
- The amount of down layer switching. It's just a personal preference, but I find it slows down the player somewhat.

What were your goals in creating this level (compared with your older levels)?
(simply out of curiousity)

EDIT: Sounds like you achieved them!		2011-01-04 08:01:00

Author:
midnight_heist
Posts: 2513

OK, so I played it.

What were your goals in creating this level (compared with your older levels)?
(simply out of curiousity)


My main goal was to make an innovative platformer. I wanted to also make it a darker level, as I had never done that before. I was also looking for a unique, (different from my previous at least) visual style. Finally I wanted the level to have more direction than my previous, so I included light story with it.		2011-01-04 22:09:00

Author:
Lockstitch
Posts: 415

first: i gave your lvl :star::star::star::star::star: and a <3.
Your levels have a unique style and it hasnt gone lost in your newest one.
but it is different. its more challenging. not go to the next switch, wow!, next switch wow!.
the optic was awesome as always.

again a awesome lvl but ithink you could make a challenging lvl with this wow effects next time .		2011-01-06 13:01:00

Author:
frexy18
Posts: 62

Epic gameplay!

Every obstacle was incredible. Your level designs are second to none.

Wow, your levels are so good. I can't wait to see you in lbp2.		2011-01-10 18:31:00

Author:
VelcroJonze
Posts: 1305

After 3 months I finally have a new PS3 and was so excited to see that you have a new level. Loved this level like every other of your levels. Atmosphere is great. I love the way you time the obstacles so they seem to be like a machine or something. I really love your creativity and the use of layers. I have waited for a new level from you and had great ecpectations which you totally satisfied.
pure perfection. i can see that you take a lot of time for each of your levels to create them.

As poms said I would love to see a level where you create some enemies. I am sure that they are going to look awesome and this would give your levels a new dimension which would make them 6 stars in my opinion

I am looking forward to your next level, which will probably be in LBP2...i am very curious how you work with the new gadgets.

I gave this level 5 stars of course...Great job as always.....You are one great creator.

Bye and sorry for my english 		2011-01-11 01:28:00

Author:
MirkoQuarck
Posts: 66

Just played this level. It was a bit different from your previous levels that I played. Great design and great contraptions. It was a little difficult navigating some parts because of the lack of arrows pointing where to go and the way you make use of every layer, but I figured it out. Overall, very fun and great job.2011-01-14 05:11:00

Author:
Garak101
Posts: 101

Just played this level and it's as great as your other level. Here's my new review system I'll be using as in 2011 [starting with your level].

VISUALS:
The creepy level design is well made with good choices of materials, and the lighting looks brilliant. It reminded me of one of the wedding levels in LBP1 story mode. It is neatly polished with corner edit tool, and it has some clever character designs too.

SOUND:
Nice use of sound effects and the "Wedding IntMusic" interactive music. Funny that I keep on hearing the creepy sounds every time I pass through the skeleton statues.

GAMEPLAY:
As always, the Lockstitch style platforming gameplay is jaw-dropping. The movements of the obstacles are ingenious. Despite that the lighting of this level seems to cover some obstacles that could be a bit confusing, you managed to continue to amaze us with your nifty level design.

OVERALL:
An excellent platformer with some amazing obstacles and inventive movements. 5 :star:s and a <3.		2011-01-15 18:23:00

Author:
JustinArt
Posts: 1314

Another amazing level by Lockstitch. The entire levels atmosphere is perfect, with some greatly accurate timed obstacles such as the rotating circles with spikes that fall through them, that was a nice touch. The detail is like nothing i've ever seen, it's perfect all round from the music choice to the gameplay. If you havn't played this or any of Lockstitchs other levels, you havn't seen a good level. 20/10!2011-02-28 10:49:00

Author:
Unknown User


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