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My First Level - Mulberry Woods (Spotlighted, Pics)

Archive: 81 posts

Hello everyone, this is my first time discovering this forum. I've just published my very first level and would love to get some feedback on it. It's nothing amazing, but I think it's decent. Here's my info:

PSN ID: mrsupercomputer
Level: Mulberry Woods
Description: Crazed lumberjacks have constructed a sawmill and are cutting down all the trees! Journey to the mill, shut it down, and save Mulberry Woods!

I'm interested to hear what you think and I look forward to playing some of the levels I've seen listed in the forum. Some look outstanding and like a lot of fun.

Update: I decided to add a few pictures of my level to the thread, so people know what to expect. Please forgive the quality as I just used my digital camera for them, but I figured any pictures might be good to help people decide whether to check it out or not.

http://www.brentsimmons.com/lbp/mw1.JPG
http://www.brentsimmons.com/lbp/mw2.JPG
http://www.brentsimmons.com/lbp/mw3.JPG
http://www.brentsimmons.com/lbp/mw4.JPG
http://www.brentsimmons.com/lbp/mw5.JPG		2008-12-12 00:53:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Will check this one out tonight and let you know.

Cheers QuozL		2008-12-12 06:34:00

Author:
QuozL
Posts: 921

I decided to play one more level before going to bed tonight and it was this one. MAN AM I HAPPY I MADE THAT DECISION!!! lol Here are my thoughts:

Pros:

- Custom content left, right and centre! Thank you, thank you, thank you. My lvl also features 100% custom content and it is very rare to find another creator who puts that kind of effort into things so I really do appreciate it.

- The visulas are great and work really well for your theme. The choice of gold leaf sponge on dark wood just makes so much sense and has a great look to it.

- Variety. You have a lot of great gameplay elements here from platforming to action to a chase sequence. The level had my attention from the very first second and never let go.

- All the small details like the trees falling in the chase sequence and the wood chips (that was brilliant btw) and the water really show that you cared about your creation and put a lot of thought into it.

- The eagle. HOW DID YOU DO THAT!? lol ( I mean the realistic falpping effect of the wings and the look of the feathers, simply beautiful). VERY impressive.

Suggestions:

- Make all those magnetic switches invisible, there is no need for the player to see them and I find it to be a visual distraction.

- Colour the yellow sponge on your switch handles. Very minor details but it ultimately adds to the overall polish.

- I had to restart the level once because at the beggining when grabbing onto the green sponge the 2nd one broke and I was unable to make the jump to progress further.


Overall this was a fantastic level that everyone should check out. 5 stars and hearted and I look forward to your next creation Check out my lvl Out of Africa if you get a chance and let me know what you think.		2008-12-12 14:15:00

Author:
OCK
Posts: 1536

Thanks for checking out my level. I did put a lot of effort to it, so I'm glad you enjoyed it. Sadly, I can't take credit for the wings on the hawk as that was an object from the main game. I have no idea what level I found it in, but you should have the ability to use it as well if you found it.

Thanks for your suggestions as well. I haven't had the issue you described with the green sponges. It just snapped, huh? Weird. I know people were getting stuck in the tree roots, but I hadn't heard about the snapping elastic. I'll see if I can do something to prevent that from occurring again.

As for the magnetic switches, I'll probably hide some more of them, but I felt that the engine room kind of needed them, so the player knew what to do and that the switches needed to be activated. I'll play around with it though.

I'll definitely check out your level and once I get some impressions, I'll be sure to post it in your thread. Thanks again for the feedback.		2008-12-12 20:26:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Thanks for checking out my level. I did put a lot of effort to it, so I'm glad you enjoyed it. Sadly, I can't take credit for the wings on the hawk as that was an object from the main game. I have no idea what level I found it in, but you should have the ability to use it as well if you found it.

Thanks for your suggestions as well. I haven't had the issue you described with the green sponges. It just snapped, huh? Weird. I know people were getting stuck in the tree roots, but I hadn't heard about the snapping elastic. I'll see if I can do something to prevent that from occurring again.

As for the magnetic switches, I'll probably hide some more of them, but I felt that the engine room kind of needed them, so the player knew what to do and that the switches needed to be activated. I'll play around with it though.

I'll definitely check out your level and once I get some impressions, I'll be sure to post it in your thread. Thanks again for the feedback.


This is my opinion on the level, you say it is your first level correct? ... You sir, must be an LBP Prodigy. I mean this level was amazing, the polish was outstanding, every single challenge was in the theme, your chainsaw guys were amazing, your eagle, and EVERYTHING! I mean this is truly a MM level. Seriously, everything was so polished, I loved how you used the emmiters ( I think ) To emit chips of wood, that was really something I've never seen before. Wow man 5/5 From me, truly an inspiration.


Oh, as for the switches being invisible or not, I would keep them visible, just in that one room though, it helps people know that they're going to have to do something with the two keys in order to open the door, as for the sound object, that can go, no need for that purple thing to ruin it.

Really nice level, and if this is your first, I can't wait to see your other levels.
5 Star'd and Hearted!		2008-12-13 09:46:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

Thanks for your kind words Whaaaale. While this is my first published level, I had spent a little bit of time building various items before attempting an entire level. I learned a lot before creating Mulberry Woods and even more while making it!

If that is your level in your sig, I'll be sure to check it out and get you some feedback as well.		2008-12-13 14:26:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I saw your level on the ign boards as well as here so I decided to play it. It's really great!

The visuals are fantastic, easily on par with the MM levels, and it's a unique, well-done theme.

And the gameplay is quite clevar and polished. I loved the factory and the chase at the end.

My only complaint, and maybe I just suck, but I found it too difficult. The factory/moving wood section was (in addition to being extremely well done) a quite long electric stretch half-way through the level with no checkpoints. I had to start the entire level over a couple of times because of it. A double life checkpoint at least would be nice there. And maybe even a double at the checkpoint before the waterfall and spikes early on (or another single in between the two); I ran out of lives there on my first try because of the finicky little jumps required.
But hey, whatever, maybe you want it to be challenging. To me though, this is the kind of level that everybody should experience, and thus should be able to finish on their first try, but still die a lot and you need to be really good if you wanna get a high score or ace it or anything.
Also, I believe the bulldozer thing was in the correct position when I got to it. What's the fun in that; you should have to pull the switch and see the awesome movements to pass the gap.

Anywho, 5/5, hearted, awesome job, etc... 		2008-12-13 20:47:00

Author:
Grethiwha
Posts: 61

You and I are actually on the same page with my level. I would like it to be one that people can get through on their first try. Perhaps I became so used to the jumps that they didn't seem that hard anymore. I'll definitely think about adding some double life checkpoints.

As for the bulldozer, you were able to make the jump without pulling the switch? Hmm, I didn't think you could unless you got it just right. I'll go back and tweak that, because I do what the player to pull the switch in order to cross. Thanks for pointing that out as well as your other feedback.		2008-12-13 23:23:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I tried it again and yea. Before pulling it its in a position where I can jump to it from on top of the bulldozer and I can jump on top of the shed-whatever-thing.
After pulling the switch it extends and makes a C-shape in front of the roof and I couldn't get past unless I pulled the switch back to it's original position. :/		2008-12-14 00:30:00

Author:
Grethiwha
Posts: 61

Just from the screenshots I can tell this is a must play level, the art design looks great, I will play it tonight.2008-12-14 00:30:00

Author:
w00tus
Posts: 22

I tried it again and yea. Before pulling it its in a position where I can jump to it from on top of the bulldozer and I can jump on top of the shed-whatever-thing.
After pulling the switch it extends and makes a C-shape in front of the roof and I couldn't get past unless I pulled the switch back to it's original position. :/

Yeah, I went back and was able to do it as well. Bummer, I thought I had fixed that. So, I've modified it a bit so you fall just short if you try to jump. To get past that part, you have to pull the lever and immediately run and jump on to the bucket thing before it makes the c-shape. Maybe I should change that a bit as well.		2008-12-14 01:13:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I haven't played it yet, but it looks very pleasing to the eye. I love the fall theme you have.

I'll be sure to check it out tomorrow.		2008-12-14 01:14:00

Author:
Unknown User

Yeah, I went back and was able to do it as well. Bummer, I thought I had fixed that. So, I've modified it a bit so you fall just short if you try to jump. To get past that part, you have to pull the lever and immediately run and jump on to the bucket thing before it makes the c-shape. Maybe I should change that a bit as well.

Ah I see, I didn't realise that was what I was supposed to do.
That's pretty clevar, I wonder how long it would've taken me to figure out. 		2008-12-14 01:22:00

Author:
Grethiwha
Posts: 61

Ah I see, I didn't realise that was what I was supposed to do.
That's pretty clevar, I wonder how long it would've taken me to figure out.


For an average mammal, two tries 		2008-12-14 01:24:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

If whales were fish and not mammals, I'd make a joke about that!

haha, it's just hard to tell because I never considered that as a solution, but then I was never really presented with the problem because I had no issues jumping across. I doubt it would've taken me too long to clue in.		2008-12-14 01:34:00

Author:
Grethiwha
Posts: 61

Man I saw your screenshots and it was love at first sight, then I read the feedback and im going to go play it right now. Be back in like 20 minutes!

Ok just got back and I have something to say. Could you please take that "It's nothing amazing but I think it's decent?" part out of your description because it is. One of my favorites 5 stars and hearted. I love the feel, the look, the custom characters and bad guys. The whole level just flows and everything makes since. I especially loved that you recreated the boss in a defeated form, he looked amazing!

There are a few minor things you might consider altering however.
1. The sponges you swing off in the forest are just basic sponge (Doesn't make much since & it doesn't look good especially with the theme you have.

2. There are very few points in the level, this is something that is really preference but I was just trying to take first place and there were very few of them, first place was like 1000 points or something. With so few points it means its easy for there to be a max high score (you just ace it and get the few points there are), the more points you put in the harder it is to find them all making harder to get the max. Perhaps setting your chainsaw lumberjacks to give points would help, elbee23 has been courteous enough to create a guide level for just that. (I believe)

3. I noticed aside from the fact that your saving the forest there is no real described plot. I might be wrong in thinking that most people come up with a story to fit there levels (whether shared or not) and the decision comes in on if sharing it would take from the experience. Personally I think just a little bit more would be entertaining.

Anyway, great level, love the look, love the gameplay, love the well made custom creations.		2008-12-14 02:49:00

Author:
Hexagohn
Posts: 335

Just played this level, and it was excellent! Very polished like everyone else has said. Loved the design of the stage (waterfall was great) and enemies. The bird was pure win since I ended up staring at it for awhile during the first cutscene. Very nice indeed.

As someone said on the comments page, it really deserves more plays. Well done ^^		2008-12-14 05:35:00

Author:
MrADC
Posts: 10

I will get around to playing this level and a bunch of other new levels that have just popped up as soon as finals are over.

Your level seems very interesting. Very nice layout. 		2008-12-14 06:47:00

Author:
xbriandeadx
Posts: 134

Wow, that looks amazing! I'm checking this out the moment I get on LBP. I'll be back with my opinion after. 2008-12-14 12:30:00

Author:
UmJammerSully
Posts: 1097

I intend to play this after a shower.2008-12-14 12:40:00

Author:
BasketSnake
Posts: 2391

I like the Autumnal theme that you've created here, it's really good!2008-12-14 15:23:00

Author:
DrMelon
Posts: 51

Hey, thanks for the kind words everyone. To those who left feedback, I will try out some of your ideas and see how they work out. Some have already been implemented, so thanks for helping me make my level better!2008-12-14 15:57:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

absolutly loved the level. the music, the sound effects, the custom objects, the theme. Just great. looking forward to you next level.2008-12-14 21:17:00

Author:
tribesofwar
Posts: 15

Hi,

I had the chance to play this level few hours ago. I will give my opinion, but i would just say before that i never read previous review of a level befor playing it in order to keep my total objectivity. So if you find redendoncy with previous reviews, i apologize. Moreover, i'm french and my english not very good, so sorry for the grammatical mistakes...

Ok, your level is first of all fun to play. I finished him the first play, and play it a second time.

PROS:
-I was really, really impressed by the first important element on screen, i mean the eagle. More accurately, the wings and the details on the feathers were outstanding! At this stage, you immediately know that the level is special and you wait a lot of details.
-Custom elements: I love so much when creators take time to add custom cointent in their levels. I already talked about the eagle, but i can mention here your woodcutter (great) and buldozers. Moreover, the whole part of the cutting wood machine (with the treadmill) is wonderful, in term of gameplay as well as visually. Great sequence.
- The second Buldozer sequence is OUTSTANDING! I really loved running and be scared about this giant machine!

SUGGESTIONS:
- I think that in some parts of the level you could add more details on your scene. I think to the first part of the level, were you use the yellow/orange sponge. I would like to see more trees, with more differents features; your first buldozer could also be ameliorated in term of details (the second is perfect)
-I didn't love so much this yellow/orange sponge in the first part of your level! I think some maters are perhaps more adapted. It is here mainly a subjective vision, but i think that it did'nt fit so much with the theme in general.
- I loved the cutting machine sequence but i found it difficult. Perhaps one or two more checkpoint in this level could be reassuring for frightned player (as i could be sometime!).

Finally, you did a great work and i enjoyed to play your level.
5 stars and hearted.
Good work. I'm impatient to see your future project

See you soon!

PS: If you want, you can play my levels
List here:
https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=5846		2008-12-15 17:12:00

Author:
Takelow
Posts: 1355

Awesome level. The lumberjacks were some of the best user-created creatures I have seen and the level design was very good. I remember that I liked the conveyor belt scene, the part where you pull the block down, the object placement, and of course the chase.

I'm not sure why people are saying it's too hard since I only died twice on my first time. I even managed to get the high score.

5 Stars and hearted. This will be spotlighted next time.		2008-12-15 17:25:00

Author:
Voltiare
Posts: 646

I finally checked it out. Awesome level! The autumn (fall if you're American) theme is flavour to my eyeballs. Everything was all very well built and also pretty challenging too.

I have one issue however. When riding the birdeh after the lumberjack chase, I missed the jump to the next platform 'causing me to spawn back on the other side where there was no longer a bird to grab hold of, meaning I couldn't finish the level. I'll definetly give it another shot, but if you can fix that issue then great.

Hearted level and I hearted you too. ;P		2008-12-15 17:33:00

Author:
UmJammerSully
Posts: 1097

The autumn (fall if you're American) theme is flavour to my eyeballs.Don't worry. We know what Autumn is.2008-12-15 17:39:00

Author:
Voltiare
Posts: 646

SUGGESTIONS:
- I think that in some parts of the level you could add more details on your scene. I think to the first part of the level, were you use the yellow/orange sponge. I would like to see more trees, with more differents features; your first buldozer could also be ameliorated in term of details (the second is perfect)
-I didn't love so much this yellow/orange sponge in the first part of your level! I think some maters are perhaps more adapted. It is here mainly a subjective vision, but i think that it did'nt fit so much with the theme in general.
- I loved the cutting machine sequence but i found it difficult. Perhaps one or two more checkpoint in this level could be reassuring for frightned player (as i could be sometime!).
t=5846[/url]

I would have loved to have more trees, but the level is about to overheat. I have enough space to add only one or two more items. Someone else mentioned the sponges as seeming out of place. I kind of like them, but I will take the advice under consideration. Thanks for taking the time to play and give feedback. I'll will check out your level next time I play.


Awesome level. The lumberjacks were some of the best user-created creatures I have seen and the level design was very good. I remember that I liked the conveyor belt scene, the part where you pull the block down, the object placement, and of course the chase.

I'm not sure why people are saying it's too hard since I only died twice on my first time. I even managed to get the high score.

5 Stars and hearted. This will be spotlighted next time.
Hey, thanks for your kind words. The lumberjacks were a rather late addition, but now that one of my favorite elements of the level! I'm glad others have enjoyed them.


I have one issue however. When riding the birdeh after the lumberjack chase, I missed the jump to the next platform 'causing me to spawn back on the other side where there was no longer a bird to grab hold of, meaning I couldn't finish the level. I'll definetly give it another shot, but if you can fix that issue then great.

The bird should return to that position after you have let go of it. I only tested this a few times during my development of that sequence, so maybe it didn't work correctly. I'll make sure it does, thanks for letting me know about it.		2008-12-15 19:06:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I would have loved to have more trees, but the level is about to overheat.

True me, I really would suspect that.
But nop. Your level is already great as it is!		2008-12-15 19:09:00

Author:
Takelow
Posts: 1355

The waterfall's platforms are annoying. They're curved, so they're hard to get any speed to reach the other platforms.

It could just be that if this game's platforming mechanics were tight, it wouldn't be a problem.		2008-12-15 19:23:00

Author:
Unknown User

I am in awe of this level. Why isn't it on the first page on LBP? Everyone should be playing it!2008-12-16 05:17:00

Author:
Trystian
Posts: 59

Well that was rather strange... My second time playing it with my brother, we got to the chase scene, and the front of the bulldozer broke, when it hit one of the trees, causing the chainsaw part of the bulldozer to start rolling towards us, killing us.

I don't know why this happened, because it didn't happen the first time i played. I don't know what you can do as you already said it's about to overheat, oh well. Love the level though, I hearted it 		2008-12-16 05:28:00

Author:
Whalio Cappuccino
Posts: 5250

Well that was rather strange... My second time playing it with my brother, we got to the chase scene, and the front of the bulldozer broke, when it hit one of the trees, causing the chainsaw part of the bulldozer to start rolling towards us, killing us.

I don't know why this happened, because it didn't happen the first time i played. I don't know what you can do as you already said it's about to overheat, oh well. Love the level though, I hearted it

Yeah, I actually had that happen to me a few times as well during development. I'm not sure how to prevent it, but I'll try and figure something out. I'd hate for it to happen to someone on their first play through. Kind of ruins the flow of that sequence.		2008-12-16 13:56:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I finally played this last night, and I enjoyed it alot. I love the look of fall and cold northern atmosphere you achieved with such few textures and simple lighting. It was so bright and vibrant alive. The shaping of the trees, and the roots at the swinging area really stood out. I liked the compliment of the red thorn bushes. Everything had a few solid colors all the way through to the end that made everything stand out. The best parts were the little details like the sawdust emitter at the end of the conveyor belt.

Your machinery was very nice too... complex, but contained and organized. The pacing, how you start with a block tied to a sponge was a good way to "break in" the player. The operation of the dozer, and the timing required, and the timing of the conveyor belt made for extremely unique platforming - which kept the conveyor concept from being stale.

I liked overloading the machine. Very interesting mechanics, simple, but fun.

The lumberjack was a really cool enemy. I'm keeping that prize in my community collectible storage level.

The hawk... was awesome. I'm not sure why, but he seemed so cool. Especially when he rescued you at the last minute. The skulldozer, and the falling trees were fantastic... gave the level a great feeling of adrenaline and excitement. I only wish I hadn't gotten ahead of it so quick so that it felt more dangerous, or so I could see it in action. Maybe some more hazards and pitfalls to jump over along the way?

Great job. I look forward to your next project...		2008-12-16 19:01:00

Author:
Unknown User

Great!
I really enjoyed it!		2008-12-16 19:25:00

Author:
BekBlayton
Posts: 8

I liked it a lot! I kept dying inside the sawmill where you jump over the electrical parts. You really should have some extra spawnpoint right before or something.2008-12-16 21:51:00

Author:
BasketSnake
Posts: 2391

I finally caught on to the use of the sticker. Well done! 2008-12-17 01:41:00

Author:
Trystian
Posts: 59

I liked it a lot! I kept dying inside the sawmill where you jump over the electrical parts. You really should have some extra spawnpoint right before or something.

Which electrical parts were given you trouble? I've debated adding a checkpoint, but I really feel like the double checkpoint there should be enough. If I did decide to add another, where would you recommend me placing it?

And as always, thanks to the others in the thread who have given feedback, I do appreciate it!		2008-12-17 04:15:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I don't think you need to change anything - even when the wheel broke off the sawdozer at the end it still rolled down the hill after me.

This is the first level I've given five stars to (apart from my own, ahem). Excellent.		2008-12-17 11:12:00

Author:
KenBlayton
Posts: 21

Well I finally played the level a few nights ago and I must say I'm in love with it! Your choice of materials/colors is superb and your lumberjacks...OMG the lumberjacks! Oh and the saw mill was freak'n cool! There are too many good things about this level for me to list all of them, just know that you are one of the rare few that I gave 5 stars to. You and your level have been hearted, and I eagerly await your next creation.2008-12-17 15:41:00

Author:
w00tus
Posts: 22

I have one issue however. When riding the birdeh after the lumberjack chase, I missed the jump to the next platform 'causing me to spawn back on the other side where there was no longer a bird to grab hold of, meaning I couldn't finish the level. I'll definetly give it another shot, but if you can fix that issue then great.


Okay, I finally figured out why it wasn't working. The bird should return to the original position now to prevent this issue from occurring. Thanks again for letting me know about this as I assumed it worked.		2008-12-18 02:31:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I wouldn't put another checkpoint by the sawmills... either the person can do it, or they can't and more lives won't change that. twin checkpoints are tacky, and there's nothing wrong with retrying - if it's not worth playing twice, it's not worth playing once. That's how I see it, but I did have trouble with it the first time too.

I regret ever having used infinite checkpoints, but use that if you have to.		2008-12-18 03:23:00

Author:
Unknown User

You have really created something special. This level is just amazing. The originality, presentation, and story are magnificent.

The only suggestion I have is to not glue the score bubbles to the floor. Use string or something to keep them from rolling down hill. The fact that they are glued to a "complicated" shape, causes a slight slowdown when you pick them up. It's a minor problem and it didn't bother me at all. This level is just awesome to the point where I can't give you any more suggestions.

Hope to see more work from you in the future.

5 stars and hearted.		2008-12-18 22:33:00

Author:
xbriandeadx
Posts: 134

We don't like liars here.. There's no way this is your first level.
Honestly, best level I've played in a while.
It had a great theme, story, and mechanics.
And when the buzz saw went to cut the wood, wood chips flew out. That was a nice effect I've rarely seen.		2008-12-19 06:02:00

Author:
whatisnarwhal
Posts: 164

We don't like liars here.. There's no way this is your first level.

Haha! It is! I promise! Now, I will admit, I tinkered around quite a bit creating contraptions without ever creating an entire level. That's actually how this level came to be. I built the bulldozer first and then got the idea for the rest of the level.

I'm glad you enjoyed it!


The only suggestion I have is to not glue the score bubbles to the floor. Use string or something to keep them from rolling down hill. The fact that they are glued to a "complicated" shape, causes a slight slowdown when you pick them up. It's a minor problem and it didn't bother me at all. This level is just awesome to the point where I can't give you any more suggestions.

Thanks for that tip. I noticed the little slowdown when picking them up, but never even thought that might be why. I'll most certainly remember that in the future. In fact, that is probably my biggest lesson from this level, don't complicate your pieces! Make 'em small and then put them together. If I would have known that going in, it would have made building Mulberry Woods a whole lot easier.		2008-12-19 14:27:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I just played through your level, and I love it. Great look and feel, oddly relaxing to play. I like the story, it is simple but it works wonders.

I'll just move on to the suggestions now:

Although the wood chips are a great effect in the mill, there is room for improvement. It would be amazing if the logs started whole, then each saw blade actually cut them down. I know this would be difficult to implement, but it would be really cool. Maybe it could be done by having the log start in three glued together pieces, than at the two big blades, one part could dissolve.

I guess that is my only big suggestion, although more points would add to the replay value. Oh, and don't make the switches in the engine room invisible, I loved that part.		2009-01-02 19:43:00

Author:
Walter-Kovacs
Posts: 542

Hey Walter, thanks for the feedback. I actually struggled with how to portray wood and I had originally envisioned the process that you described. Unfortunately I couldn't figure out a way to do it that looked nice and was functional for platforming. I even thought about having a piece dissolve like you suggested, but couldn't get it right. Maybe I'll go back and give it another try. Thanks again for the feedback!2009-01-02 22:10:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Yeah, I know that it will be complicated to have the wood get cut, but it would be worth it if you can pull it off. Hopefully there is a way to do it with out eating up too much thermometer. I'll let you know if I have any ideas of a good way to do it.2009-01-02 23:15:00

Author:
Walter-Kovacs
Posts: 542

Hey Walter, thanks for the feedback. I actually struggled with how to portray wood and I had originally envisioned the process that you described. Unfortunately I couldn't figure out a way to do it that looked nice and was functional for platforming. I even thought about having a piece dissolve like you suggested, but couldn't get it right. Maybe I'll go back and give it another try. Thanks again for the feedback!

Cut and place separated triangles of dissolve along the wooden plank, pointing into the center with the horizontal edge at the top. Then color it all the same so that it still looks like one solid piece of wood. On each single triangle of dissolve place a small magnetic key, and try to do this with the smallest radius possible. Everything the saw touches down onto the wood the corresponding switch should trigger the dissolve and if done while "behind" something it should come out with cool little grooves that look like it was cut thinner and very jagged, and still appear as a full, untouched plank on the other end as it feeds through.

Basically like this -


________________
VVVVVVVVVVVVVV dissolve
________________ wood

************** keys

You could do that with all kinds of different shapes for various effects... even a flat planl getting cut in two length-wise would look nice. The hard part would really just be getting the key radius and the timing just right, without changing the timing of the section to begin with, or making it difficult for the player to run on jagged or bumpy wood for those long jumps - which was perfect platforming IMO. After you make one, you'd just have to put it on emit like normal...

The cool emitter effect that you used for sawdust coordinated to trigger when the saws press would look great with this once it was all said and done.		2009-01-02 23:24:00

Author:
Unknown User

great level defiantly needs more attion like more pepole to play and a little bit more portals2009-01-03 01:01:00

Author:
hiyo38
Posts: 20

One of the best looking levels I have seen, the combination of colors used, the style of the scenario and the puzzles/platforms created are just plain awesome!

I had a little problem with the green sponges at the beginning, somehow I couldn't make them go where I wanted, it took me 2 tries to pass that, maybe I was doing something wrong, but once I managed to get pass that, everything else was just excellent work. Custom creations is something I really enjoy and value a lot, as we have so many available tools/objects to use it that are "pre-made", taking the time to create something from scratch must be appreciated.

Excellent job on this level and I would recommend all to play it.		2009-01-03 05:45:00

Author:
Morri
Posts: 53

I had a little problem with the green sponges at the beginning, somehow I couldn't make them go where I wanted, it took me 2 tries to pass that, maybe I was doing something wrong, but once I managed to get pass that, everything else was just excellent work.

Oh yeah, I agree. It only took me one try, but sponge on elastic drives me nuts. For some reason it worked a lot better in you level than in others, but I would suggest making it a little less annoying somehow. Maybe just make the far-side be slightly lower and easier to get on to.		2009-01-03 06:15:00

Author:
Walter-Kovacs
Posts: 542

Yeah, some of the biggest complaints have dealt with the sponge on elastic portions. I've been thinking of just switching them to string so you just swing over with ease. I think it was one of those portions that I played so much, I didn't realize how difficult it may be for people who are doing it their first time. Unlike me, they haven't tried it hundreds of times! Maybe I will finally give in and change it. Thanks for the feedback guys.2009-01-03 14:16:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

AMAZING level.

Honestly. I'll leave proper feedback later, so watch this space 		2009-01-03 15:08:00

Author:
Unknown User

One of the very best levels out there due to shear fun factor. The layout and appearance is spot on, I can see your creative juices were flowing with this Love the end part especially!!2009-01-04 10:08:00

Author:
metal_basher
Posts: 15

This map is one of the best maps I've played! The lumberjack story works! The fall setting works! Your waterfall section inspired me to create a water/river themed map! But my favorite has to be your Hawk, the greatest community object I've seen thus far! I fell in love with your Hawk mainly because I have been working on a sky map for a while now but am missing a bunch of birds. I created 3 birds but nothing like your Hawk. With your permission I would love to use this Hawk as an elevator in my sky map. One look at your Hawk and I was drooling! I need him! Hearted the level and gave you your 30th creator heart for your Create Trophy. Long live Mulberry Woods!2009-01-21 22:48:00

Author:
d BAG
Posts: 17

Absolutely amazing level! Loved the entire look of it; the woods, the leaves, the bird (****!), the brambles - it was beautiful and artistic. And the lumberjacks were awesome enemies, especially the boss. 5 stars and hearted!!2009-01-23 08:19:00

Author:
mostevilmilo
Posts: 131

I'm loving this level. The use of colour scheme is so cool, as are the story and the enemies.

The only problem I had was when the saw fell off the bulldozer during the chase sequence, which killed me before I gould grab the bird's feet. I could see visible dark matter holding the clouds up.

5 stars and hearted!		2009-01-23 12:48:00

Author:
Entity
Posts: 274

I've been pretty busy lately, so I haven't been able to play LBP or check out LBP Central, so it surprised me to see my level thread back on the front page! I'm glad to see that more people were able to play and enjoyed it.

D_bag, thanks for your comments on the hawk. The wings are actually premade Mm Objects which really make him look good, so I can't take all the credit. Feel free to use him in your levels. He's in a prize bubble in my level, so after you find him, you should be able to use him.

Entity - That is an issue I have been unable to figure out. Sometimes the saw pops off, and then other times it doesn't. I've tried testing it, but wouldn't you know that it never happens when I'm testing it! Very aggravating! I'll try and take another look at it though and I'll try to hide that dark matter as well. Thanks!

Again, thanks for all the comments!		2009-01-23 14:42:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

First time in a non-MM level that I wanted all the prizes! Thankyou! I liked the sticker switch, very clever. I'm about to play it again! HIGH SCORE -.-

Just realised you're already on my friends list, do you use gamefaqs?

Great, great level!

EDIT: I just found that in the factory/mill at the part with the mag keys, if you drop them upside down in a corner, you cannot pick them up, thus forcing a restart!

Still a great level!

EDIT2: Mind playing my level, the Forgotten Relics of the Sack... Just look up dkjestrup, hope you enjoy, feedback appreciated! (I have a topic)		2009-01-23 21:07:00

Author:
dkjestrup
Posts: 672

No doubt MrSuperComputer. I've played your Mulberry Woods several times just for inspiration. I already got your Hawk prize bubble and he's ready to make a cameo on my sky map. Just used him in one section as an elevator. He's holding a nest with his feet, gotta jump into the nest, grab it and rise. I'll post a pic of the finished product once I publish it.2009-01-24 15:50:00

Author:
d BAG
Posts: 17

I'm glad you could find some use for the hawk in your level D_Bag. I look forward to playing it!

And dk, thanks for your comments as well. I'll make sure to check out your level.		2009-01-24 20:57:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

I'm glad you could find some use for the hawk in your level D_Bag. I look forward to playing it!

And dk, thanks for your comments as well. I'll make sure to check out your level.

No problem, an easy fix would be to use material changer to change the (currently) non grabable part of the keys to polystyrene, and sticker them! 		2009-01-24 21:59:00

Author:
dkjestrup
Posts: 672

Great level. Played it awhile ago, it was very fun with a unique visual style.2009-02-17 06:23:00

Author:
cornontheCOD
Posts: 150

i remember playing this level with a friend a while back and remember saying wow out loud lol

i just loved the original concept of the story, never seen a level based on lumberjacks and sawmills etc..

the only con i remember ( its been a while since i played ) was when the dude is chasing u at the end, i kept getting stuck on things in the back layers, cant remember what :S sorry

also the crane puzzle took a while for me to figure out, but i like a challenge ( its just the impatient players i feel will complain and quit after a few seconds of using brainpower lol )

but obviously 5 stars and im pretty sure i hearted 		2009-02-17 11:25:00

Author:
talmasca
Posts: 196

ok got to try this level.... the review is impressive.........2009-02-17 14:44:00

Author:
misterwonderloo
Posts: 164

Haven't read the thread and I didn't take notes while playing so I might be off a bit.

I loved the level. Theme was good, with a great excecution. Difficulty was nice and all that. The bulldozer was a good obstacle and I really enjoyed the final chase. Loved the artwork of the characters too.

One thing though: If I'm not mistaken there are some rather empty parts of your level, just walking with not much too do/see. Some more carefull planning would eleminate that. As said above, I could be confused with some other level here...		2009-02-17 15:08:00

Author:
Wyth
Posts: 263

One thing though: If I'm not mistaken there are some rather empty parts of your level, just walking with not much too do/see. Some more carefull planning would eleminate that. As said above, I could be confused with some other level here...

I love how sparse parts of this level are, it has a great simple look. I was never bored or wondering what to do next. The only thing I remember is that it could use a couple more point chains, ones that require a little skill to get a good multiplier. This can go a long way toward keeping the skilled players interested while not making it super difficult.		2009-02-17 15:29:00

Author:
Walter-Kovacs
Posts: 542

I went ahead and tried your level and it was just as good as the first time I played it.

Pros:

- It looks great. You really captured the autumn forest setting.

- The character models/objects also look great. The bird was definitely my favorite, but the lumberjacks were awesome too.

- There never was a frustrating moment. The sawmill had it's hard spots, but I never felt the urge to scream.

- Speaking of the sawmill, all the little details you put in there were very cool. I especially liked the wood chips flying around when a saw blade connected.

- And last but not least, the Sawdozer! (It is called the Sawdozer, right?) This part was very nicely done. You have the maniacal lumberjack chasing after you wreaking havoc wherever he goes. And then you have trees falling down as he crashes into them. Really good stuff.


Cons:

- As I said above, it isn't frustrating. But it isn't hard either. The hardest part was the second sawblade in the mill and honestly, that wasn't too hard.

- When you're in the mill and get to the generator, I didn't know what to do. After some simple thinking, I figured out how to solve the puzzle and then I noticed you put up a sign to tell us what to do. Something you could do to make it even easier, is have a blank speech bubble activate a cutscene to show off the sign.

- If you miss the birds feet and die, you respawn on top of the Sawdozer and can get killed again when he plummets to his death. This really isn't a problem though, so I wouldn't worry about it.


So, as you can tell, I really liked this level. 5 stars/hearted. You definitely have talent, so keep it up.		2009-02-18 01:06:00

Author:
RickTheRipper
Posts: 345

I really liked this level. Your "Bog" level looks cooler, overall. And I do wish I saw a little more decoration in this one (especially after playing the other layer first), But I loved things like the lumberjacks.

Hearted!		2009-02-19 18:40:00

Author:
dobi6
Posts: 359

congrats on being showcased on the recent IGN LBP level lovers anonymous!2009-02-20 02:09:00

Author:
Conall-Star
Posts: 157

Thanks to all those who have left feedback! I had originally considered myself done with this level, but because of the new feedback (I'm guessing it's due to the IGN article) I decided, what the heck, I'll try and improve it a bit. Since this was my first level, I didn't understand how to manage my thermometer very well. I've tried to go back, eliminate things that were unnecessary, and tried to make certain areas a bit more detailed as well as add a few more point chains through out.

Some changes include a more detailed waterfall inspired by TJapan's verison in his Hungry, Hungry, Cabybara (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8947) level. That was an area that I always liked, but wish it was a bit better. I have also added more trees for the saw dozer to knock over during the chase sequence. This was another area where it seemed a bit stale to me. Other than those to changes, there are a few more stickers and decorations used throughout to add some more subtle detail.

And finally, I tried my best to implement about three or four new point chains. My apologies to those who held the #1 spot on the leader board, but you'll have to do it again!

Mulberry Woods is now pushed to the max, any more additions will cause me to overheat, but I'm glad I was able to finally implement at least a portion of your suggestions. Thanks again.		2009-02-20 03:47:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

This is a great level!

Loved the visuals and the design. Didn't think its hard, for me, it is more relaxing. The design of the models is really good too, loved the bird in the beginning and the lumberjack.

It has some awesome ideas, like the generator that you have to invert the keys and the crane to enter the lumber house.

The final part was very fun and well done, with the trees falling when the enemy approaches.

Doesn't look a first level, because it is really good haha 5 stars and heart!		2009-02-20 21:10:00

Author:
Unknown User

Absolutely loved this level. The feeling it had was very lighthearted. It was fun, yet challenging, unique, and very creative. The final scene with the trees being cut down and the bird saving you from the lumberjack was perfection.

5/5 stars, I hearted you and both of your levels.

Cant wait to see what you make next!		2009-02-27 07:45:00

Author:
ApellesJr
Posts: 282

Awesome level! Has a cartoon-like feel with a nice story. Loved the chase and wagon ride at the end to see the smashed saw-dozer. 5 out of 5.2009-02-27 22:33:00

Author:
The_Pemp_Wei
Posts: 13

I was going to make a level about hippies vs. lumberjacks, but this looks similar...
Looks very good for your first level!		2009-09-04 05:11:00

Author:
chezhead
Posts: 1063

Can I just LOL @ that? 2009-09-04 10:07:00

Author:
Jaeyden
Posts: 564

Can I just LOL @ that?
You absolutely may... very interesting bump.		2009-09-04 12:03:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

It's only been 6 months, guys. Give him a break .2009-09-04 16:14:00

Author:
comphermc
Posts: 5338

Wow, you guys, give him some more credit :-)

For a first level attempt this is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G

Okay it's not as good as the best cool levels but you have to put this in perspective.

For a first attempt it's a great level.

I liked the theme, the art design was nice and I loved the part inside the house where you had to avoid the sawblades and blow up the mill.

Also the chase scene at the end got my adrenaline pumping.		2009-09-09 21:29:00

Author:
nightwing
Posts: 422

mrsUberComputer u suk!!11!! stp makin lvls u n00000b!!!111!!1


2009-09-09 21:51:00

Author:
rtm223
Posts: 6497


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