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Jacques the Acadian Warlord [SPOTLIGHTED!]

Archive: 46 posts

Everyones loves Canadians. Canadians are not in enough Video Games. Acadians doubly so. This level features Canadians, Acadians, a giant maze, and a really cool fight with a giant robot. Enjoy!

I would love to hear feedback.		2008-12-28 20:20:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

I'll go check yours out!

I really liked the flower thing, although it took me a while to figure it out. I wish there had been more obstacles in the underground part. They can be a little boring because there is nothing to be afraid of. The puzzle-solving segments with the children were great.

I noticed that the last checkpoint is not bolted to the ground. Also, after defeating the boss it's a little difficult to tell what to do or where to go, you might want to make that a little more clear.

Overall a very satisfying level.

Gameplay: 7/10 (little easy)
Style: 7/10
Overall: 7/10

Please check out some of my levels if you get a chance, my PSN is JonMartin		2008-12-28 21:23:00

Author:
Snowspot
Posts: 265

Cool, thanks! I'll make a few adjustments.

Edit: OK, I changed the following things:

At the beginning, the flower hint now has a capital "GRAB" to make it a little more clear they need to grab the flowers. The jets shooting from below in the underground segments are now lethal, so you actually have to pay attention to this or you die... I made sure the checkpoints were bolted. After you blow up the robot, a couple seconds later the camera pans over to the now-open door.

After I made these changes, I immediately got some more stars on my level, so cool!

I am going to go check out your levels now.



Additional note:

Last night someone added a comment to my game that said it was "Offensive". I had the robot saying "Let's fight, eh?" which is the only thing I could imagine is offensive.

(although I have a lot of friends from around Toronto and they use the word "eh?" in the same way I use the word "right?" and I was trying to put something that sounded a little Canadian in it. I took it out, however - didn't want to offend anyone).

If anyone sees anything that they KNOW is offensive in the game, please let me know. I worked on the concept quite a bit and did research before writing the game.		2008-12-28 23:05:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Man I really liked your level.

It seems to be going unnoticed since it's been like a month this thread is here and the level doesn't have much plays. It's a shame because your level really is good. Seriously, I don't have much negative to tell you. You seem to know where you're going and you have some nice design senses. Youre scenery is good (especially the conveyor parts) and you made good use of stickers and such.

You maze is really awesome and many other people should take notice. It's just the right lenght. The way it turns and the speed it turns it's just right. There's no useless trap causing cheap deaths and bubbles helping you to know where to go. Really, this was well-made.

I also liked the constrast between the 2 different envirronement. I didn't expect that when I hit the flowers. The last part with the rocket blowing through the ground simply was nice touch. I LOVED that.

http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq262/RangerX_photos/Thatwasreallyawesome.jpg



Some stuff I noticed:

http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq262/RangerX_photos/Canjumponthestomps.jpg http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq262/RangerX_photos/Cancheatthatpart.jpg

Your glass things stomping the ground there. It's possible to jump on top of them and you get to skip that part. You can jump high enough to land on top of the laser tunnel and avoid it completely. I wonder if that was intended of yours.

If ever this wasn't intended I invite you into not fixing it either. I think it's a little neat trick for advanced players.


And finally I have a little suggestion:

http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq262/RangerX_photos/stickerchildren.jpg

I would make that sliding door sliding up. This way you could make it a thin layer. What would that provide you? You will be able to put the childrens in 3D behind the door, giving them more life. You could make them on the large layer or the next thin one. (i'd personally chose the thin one).

So that's it for now. Really good level. If it doesn't take of i'll advertise it in my recommendation threads. And as a Canuck myself, I also think there isn't enough Canada and Acadian in videogames.

.		2009-02-01 06:20:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Just played it and got #3 on the scoreboards. I have to say that it is better than average. I gave it 4 stars because nothing really stood out as a "Wow" moment and the boss was really simple.

But other than that, it is very solid. Good choice of materials, pretty good obstacles like the death ray and blocks, and the outside with the snow was pretty. Oh yeah, and I forgot about the maze. Good maze although I kind've wish it was grabbable. Grabbing onto moving objects is usually epic.		2009-02-01 07:03:00

Author:
Voltiare
Posts: 646

Wow. I thought this thread AND this level were dead.

Since it isn't I'm going to preface with a couple quick points:

1. This was a really early level in "LittleBigTime". The entire level was finished by the time the MGS pack came out. I changed the ending at the last minute to use the Paintinator.
2. There is a really good reason this level has practically no plays: When I first published it there was a 2 star rating and the comments section was riddled with comments like "This Level Sucks" and "Offensive". I still don't know why. I deleted it, republished - same thing. Deleted again, republished AGAIN - same thing. Within several days of the original release I completely deleted it and decided NEVER to publish it again (almost stopped developing in LBP altogether). Few weeks later I thought I published it locked (but I didn't accidentally) and it sat there with 0 plays for a few weeks until OCK happened upon it and liked.

Ok, now that that's out of the way:

This game was authored because I think that part of the world is absolutely beautiful, AND the song "Acadian Driftwood" from "The Band" is one of my all-time favorite songs.


You maze is really awesome and many other people should take notice. It's just the right lenght. The way it turns and the speed it turns it's just right. There's no useless trap causing cheap deaths and bubbles helping you to know where to go. Really, this was well-made.

I really liked the maze too! It took me a long time to design, so I was hoping someone would like it... I don't think a lot of people were patient or like this kind of gameplay, so I added that "die and jump past it... but lose the points" thing afterward.


Your glass things stomping the ground there. It's possible to jump on top of them and you get to skip that part. You can jump high enough to land on top of the laser tunnel and avoid it completely. I wonder if that was intended of yours.

Yes, it was absolultely intended (in fact, you missed two MORE cheats in this area - you can just run through the glass-gas thingamabobs without stopping AND when dragging the scientist dude back through the lasers if you start when the first laser disapperas you can just drag without stopping). I wanted to make a room that "looks" really perilous, but someone who knows it can just flip and fly through the thing easily. Took a lot of work, but I thought it was pretty funny.


I would make that sliding door sliding up. This way you could make it a thin layer. What would that provide you? You will be able to put the childrens in 3D behind the door, giving them more life. You could make them on the large layer or the next thin one. (i'd personally chose the thin one).

Definately would improve this end part some. What you're looking at in this game was done without the benefit of practically ANY feedback. It is almost totally raw. Now that some people enjoy it I may go back and refine some things. There is actually 2 layers of thick already, so all I really need to build are the shapes and drop them in the background.

I think in the end I was just trying to tell a really interesting AND incredibly wacky and out-of-place story. The fact you are Canadian and enjoyed it means a lot because I was originally thinking "you know, I'll bet people up in Canada will really enjoy this - I don't think anyone has EVER seen any of these things in a video game before. It gave me a lot of sleepless nights when I got the "Offensive" comments because I was picturing the same people being annoyed that I was trying to put a smile on their faces.


So that's it for now. Really good level. If it doesn't take of i'll advertise it in my recommendation threads. And as a Canuck myself, I also think there isn't enough Canada and Acadian in videogames.

Definately if you want to recommend it I would like that. However, I probably won't try to promote it to the general populace in LBP because I had such a bad initial experience. Just having people in this community play it is enough for me. And I agree - there SHOULD definately be more Canada and Acadian in videogames!


I gave it 4 stars because nothing really stood out as a "Wow" moment and the boss was really simple.

I have to 100% agree with you. I know a lot of people have delusions about their level being the most amazing thing, however if I was rating my own game I would definately not give it more than 4 stars. I more designed it around what I thought was an interesting story than breaking new ground - and hopefully people will take it that way and enjoy it anyway.

As for the robot, it was designed simple on purpose. The idea actually made me laugh - a robot that was designed based on the simplest 50's era round-top robot that actually had misplaced panels drilled into it. It was supposed to look like a robot built on a small remote island off the coast of northern Canada.... I enjoyed the cheesy nature of it (I thought of blowing up Donkey Show's Mobile Suit Armorboy object and using it, but it was too darn good looking for my level!)		2009-02-01 19:13:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Anyways I think there's too much "5 Stars" given to levels out there. I mean, it's supposed to mean "as good as it gets", it's supposed to be the most ******* level you've played in weeks.

It's very rare I give 5 stars. You really need to push and stand out AS WELL AS having awesome gameplay and being original.
Great/Good levels receive a 4 stars from me.		2009-02-01 20:08:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Anyways I think there's too much "5 Stars" given to levels out there. I mean, it's supposed to mean "as good as it gets", it's supposed to be the most ******* level you've played in weeks.

It's very rare I give 5 stars. You really need to push and stand out AS WELL AS having awesome gameplay and being original.
Great/Good levels receive a 4 stars from me.
I absolutely agree. I sometimes will give out a 5 star when I see a level has 3 and I TRULY feel it is a 4 star level (want to try to make it fair)

I DID give H.A.T.E. 2 and Sack's In The City both 5 stars, but I felt both REALLY deserved it (although now that I know H.A.T.E. 2 is going to be better I'm not sure where to go from there..... there's no 6 star option....)		2009-02-01 20:39:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

I absolutely agree. I sometimes will give out a 5 star when I see a level has 3 and I TRULY feel it is a 4 star level (want to try to make it fair)

I DID give H.A.T.E. 2 and Sack's In The City both 5 stars, but I felt both REALLY deserved it (although now that I know H.A.T.E. 2 is going to be better I'm not sure where to go from there..... there's no 6 star option....)

Yes of course I also do this in order to help balance things out sometimes if I level really is treated unfairly. (tends to happen with harder levels)

And about the rating I suggest you never really compare. I mean it's all about how much you like the present level you just played.

.		2009-02-01 22:10:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Last night someone added a comment to my game that said it was "Offensive". I had the robot saying "Let's fight, eh?" which is the only thing I could imagine is offensive.


No Canadian could think "Let's fight, eh?" is offensive, I'd guess the thought of kidnapping children would be the more likely candidate of drawing an "Offensive" comment.

I would put the giant robot in a plaid shirt, throwing hockey sticks, maple syrup and snow tires while yelling "Take off, eh!" the whole fight.

Pros
+Overall design, looks great (much like all your levels)
+Maze, was fun to take the time to learn how to play it.
+Platform obstacles were well thought out with ways to 'cheat' past parts.
Cons
-Stairs up to the horizontal laser; It's prolly more my crappy game play but I'd to jump to the final stair while waiting to time the laser and end up landing on the laser's level and standing there like a fool.
-Fighting the robot I'd get stuck in the ditch under the moving platform then squished, again prolly my crappy play.
-Not enough Canadianisms! Make fun of us, we like it!		2009-02-01 23:05:00

Author:
Ozwald_the_cat
Posts: 45

No Canadian could think "Let's fight, eh?" is offensive, I'd guess the thought of kidnapping children would be the more likely candidate of drawing an "Offensive" comment.

I would put the giant robot in a plaid shirt, throwing hockey sticks, maple syrup and snow tires while yelling "Take off, eh!" the whole fight.

Pros
+Overall design, looks great (much like all your levels)
+Maze, was fun to take the time to learn how to play it.
+Platform obstacles were well thought out with ways to 'cheat' past parts.
Cons
-Stairs up to the horizontal laser; It's prolly more my crappy game play but I'd to jump to the final stair while waiting to time the laser and end up landing on the laser's level and standing there like a fool.
-Fighting the robot I'd get stuck in the ditch under the moving platform then squished, again prolly my crappy play.
-Not enough Canadianisms! Make fun of us, we like it!
Ok, prepare for a wall of text (but hopefully interesting, so you may enjoy it):

You know: with the "eh" thing, that's EXACTLY what I was thinking. In fact, a friend of mine from up your way in Toronto (family comes down in the winter here to Florida) told me "you know how we say Canada up where I come from? C-eh-N-eh-D-eh."

And also, Strange Brew is my favorite movie of all time.....

BUT, after the THIRD TIME the score of my game was decimated, and a number of these comments, I went out and did a bunch of research and found that there is a huge population up there that thinks Americans make fun of Canadians to make them seem "Trite".

In fact, a whole bunch were completely offended with an episode of "How I met your mother" that dealt with stereotypes (which, to make a long story short, seemed to insinuate the horrid possibility that Canadians are polite). Of course, another whole half of the population fired back with "YOU DIDN'T THINK THAT WAS FUNNY???" (also turns out the shows producer is Canadian, which threw it all out of whack).

I even found YouTube videos with children begging Americans to stop the feud and asking them to stop with the stereotypes (quote from one, "Canada is a nice place to live, I've never been there but I imagine America is too... can't we just get along?)

I went in to work and asked, "do you know anything about a feud going on between us and the Canadians?"... one of my coworkers said, "News to me... would be hard if there was, half our population is Canadian in the winter... Florida would be a warzone."

My point is, I think there are definately people out there in MANY countries that have no sense of humor about themselves.. you obviously have a tremendous sense of humor based on our conversations and the content in your games.

Now, on the other hand..... if you, as a Canadian, build this particular robot (maybe even containing mouse-in-a-beer-bottle missiles) I'm not quite sure what anyone is going to say! I'll just put a little note in my game, "hey, if you're offended... talk to Oswald the Cat!"

(by the way, if ANYONE is offended by this email... pretend you didn't see it and leave it between me and Mr. T. Cat.)

For anyone who thinks I am offensive or have anything against Canadians, consider this:

Half my friends are Canadian
My favorite movie is Strange Brew
I have every episode of the original SCTV on DVD (when it was still filmed in Canada)
My favorite bands are Rush and Triumph
I ACTUALLY say "eh" in most sentences (not making fun of anyone, I just DO it)

I'm half a step away from sporting a toque and heading north!
(however, my wife HATES any weather below 70 degrees, so I'm stuck here in hot sweaty Florida....)

By the way, if you ever get to Florida let me know... I'll have a beer with you, eh?

(also, ONE of the people who threw an offensive statement on my comments... their ONLY hearted author was Sirenrose.... I don't know if theirs a connection )		2009-02-01 23:39:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Excellent, I will accept all forwarded complaints, read them and then throw them in the recycling bin...

Strange Brew, SCTV & Rush? You might be more Canadian then I am!

1) When talking with Americans they seem to point out/make fun of me for saying 'a-boot' instead of 'about' but in my head I've never said 'a-boot' in my life.
2) Now I wanna see a Strange Brew LBP level:
-Start off getting in a van
-Have the theme song play
-Electrified Fences, Hockey Goons, Mad Scientist and Beer Drinking Dogs

Sounds like a level to me, I'll be the Canadian Constant/Complaints Department you do all the heavy lifting!		2009-02-02 01:46:00

Author:
Ozwald_the_cat
Posts: 45

1) You know, many Americans attribute this to Canadians, but I've always thought people from Minnesota talk more like this (there IS actually a bit of an accent with many Canadians, but it is really subtle and most Americans can't really imitate it - although most Americans can't really imitate ANY accent well - they just think they can).
2) hmmm.... actually, Strange Brew has a LOT of great game material. Imagine a mini-game where you need to stuff a mouse into a bottle to get free beer (without breaking it's bones all up)!		2009-02-02 03:09:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

haha oh man. I think most Canadian's relish in the idea of having an identity in the first place. As you can see by my profile I am Canadian myself and have absolutely no problem with anyone "poking fun" at the things that set us apart from other countries.

However, it's also really funny this came up on a LBPC thread, because I'm currently doing a History paper on Canada-US relations (pertaining to JFK and our prime minister at the time John Diefenbaker. I could go into the history of our relations and tell you why some Canadians are so easily offended (especially by Americans), but I won't for the sheer fact that it won't fit into a single post (don't want to upset the admins with a double post now )

But yeah, it pretty much stems from the fact that most American's think that Canadians are just like them except we have winter 10 months of the year yadda yadda yadda. What is ironic is that when American's point out the differences (such as "eh" and our fascination with hockey) we get offended. Such a stupid world we live in /sigh

I guess what I'm trying to say is don't worry about being offensive, because the people that are offended are blithering idiots. 		2009-02-02 03:13:00

Author:
Neverynnal
Posts: 374

Yes, but blithering idiots with the ability to take my game down to a 2 star rating.....

But I think, in the end, no matter where you are from or what your culture is, people can either laugh at themselves or they can't. And a lot of people are just WAITING to take offense at things (I think you found that out the other day.... heh).

The interesting thing about Americans teasing Canadians is that there really isn't anything to tease aboot (sorry....). Ok, so in some areas of Canada they use "eh?" in the same way an American would say "ok?" (by the way, as mentioned above, "I" use "eh?". Why? Dunno. Always have).... or in northern Canada they may wear a toque..... because it's cold. People play hockey there.... We have a professional hockey team in my city in Florida (at the Everblades arena!) They drink beer. I drink beer....

I would love to read that paper when you're done with it. This is an interesting subject. (probably a subject we're going to need to create another thread for... I think we've gotten a little off the beaten track. Oh jeez!)		2009-02-02 03:54:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Well at the moment the paper I'm writing is actually a critical review of a book written by the Canadian historian/news reporter Knowlton Nash. Later on this term I'm set on writing a full 20 page paper on Canada-US relations over the past 2 centuries so maybe I'll forward that your way if you dare to read it haha

And yeah I'm a huge hockey fan man. Your Florida Panthers are surprising a lot of people this year with their solid play. Last time I checked I think they were almost in the playoffs (which is exceptional considering the team they have).

And sorry for pillaging your thread. I'll give this level a play as soon as schoolwork subsides and I can do anything but haha 		2009-02-02 04:36:00

Author:
Neverynnal
Posts: 374

Well at the moment the paper I'm writing is actually a critical review of a book written by the Canadian historian/news reporter Knowlton Nash. Later on this term I'm set on writing a full 20 page paper on Canada-US relations over the past 2 centuries so maybe I'll forward that your way if you dare to read it haha

And yeah I'm a huge hockey fan man. Your Florida Panthers are surprising a lot of people this year with their solid play. Last time I checked I think they were almost in the playoffs (which is exceptional considering the team they have).

And sorry for pillaging your thread. I'll give this level a play as soon as schoolwork subsides and I can do anything but haha
Well, this could be productive on my game.... if you see anywhere that I can add some "Canadian" culture without worrying about a lynch-mob of toque-sportin' hosers comin' to get me let me know.

(ok, that was bad - PLEASE don't get mad at me people - I love Canadians!)		2009-02-02 05:56:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

As you know I played this level a couple of weeks ago when you first published it. I was looking for your Splat Invaders and happened upon it by accident. I saw it had no plays and no hearts (you have since explained why) and I decided to give it a shot. I was not disappointed

Being a Canadian myself I really enjoyed your light-hearted story. You had some nice custom content and everything had great polish. The maze was fantastic. One of my favorite parts was at the end when the rocket broke through the ground. All that debris was a really nice touch!

My only suggestion is concerning the boss. I found a couple of safe spots so it did not really pose a challenge. I think you could also add to it a bit aesthetically but that's about it.

All-in-all I really enjoyed this and gave it 5 stars and a heart!		2009-02-02 08:39:00

Author:
OCK
Posts: 1536

Okay, seriously now - am asking the Canadians here: would it be a bad idea to put a toque on the robots head and have eletric hocky sticks flying?

I figure I could add the following text to my description: "The content in this game was a joint effort between Americans and Canadians. It is a tribute to the fact that these 2 vastly different cultures really CAN get along!"

What do you think? I certainly don't want to offend anyone, but if enough Canadians think this is funny I would be willing.

(also, I had a suggestion from another Canadian friend of mine that I should leave random beer bottles all over the game)		2009-02-02 14:00:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

I think you take it too seriously.

Wouldn't it sorta looked misplaced? I dunno. Just try to make the level fun and good looking. Some people's opinions shouldn't influence you too much.

From my experience in this industry (5 years QA here) let me tell you that people complain about EVERYTHING and all the time. When you start trying to please everyone you will die from it. It will NOT end.

.		2009-02-02 14:54:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Sorry, bad wording... I'm not taking this super seriously (I'm enjoying the conversation and laughing a lot because I think the people involved in this thread are really interesting).

But...

Part of the original intent of this game was to place subtle "Canadianisms" that Canadians would enjoy into the game (as you said before, there just aren't enough games that feature Canadians). The original idea came from me sitting down with some friends from Toronto and laughing about it. Right now I have a few of you that have shown some interest, and I would LOVE to put a few tiny details in. I've always been a huge fan of Canadian-based humor (even though I honestly had no idea many Canadians were offended by some of this material - I'm a stupid American dude....).

I HAD some of these subtle details in and took them all out. In all honesty, it kind of ruined the game for me. I used to laugh at the fact that the robot said "Let's fight, eh?" - until people started hating me for it. Not so funny anymore....

I don't want to go overboard, but it would be great to put some of these details in IF you guys would enjoy it. I can live with a few ignorant people out there not liking it, but if I feel like I'm laughing alone I'd rather have the level the way it is (with a few tweaks you've already mentioned).



One last question, and I'll let this die: What is acceptable, appropriate for the game, and will not put me in danger of a lynching? (and you can certainly private-message me if you want in order to stop bumping this thread up.... there are a lot of really good levels that probably deserve to be on page 1 much more than this one... such as 218, H.A.T.E. 2, Sack's In the City, and Gemini....in the end this is a small issue)		2009-02-02 15:34:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Quit bein a freakin hoser eh, and just make the level as offensive as you want. 2009-02-02 17:34:00

Author:
Neverynnal
Posts: 374

The best indication you can have is that the game is rated "E for Everyone".

As long as your level fits this ESRB rating everything is fine really.

.		2009-02-02 17:38:00

Author:
RangerZero
Posts: 3901

Ok, so a "couple" beer bottles (we'll leave the label off 'em so they could be soda bottles for the tikes - solves any ESRB rating issues), put the "Let's fight, eh?" back in and the robot spews some hockey sticks. That should be enough for some good ol' fashioned Canadian culture. No Toque on the robot - not enough room overhead - the fur would hit the ceiling and cause the level to be destabilized.

Thanks guys! Viva Canada! Take a sled ride for me, it's about 80 degrees here right now.

Quote from the best move ever:

"I always thought drowning in beer would be heaven! This isn't heaven, this sucks!"



Quit bein a freakin hoser eh, and just make the level as offensive as you want.

Take off, eh? You call me a hoser I'll knock the little toque off your head!		2009-02-02 17:51:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Hi Cubbage!

I played your level yesterday and found it great, even i couldn't reach the coreboard yet. I simply died against the giant robot!!!
I will replay it tonight, and will come back with my full comments 		2009-02-03 18:44:00

Author:
Takelow
Posts: 1355

Probably the best suggestion I can give you with the robot is to keep your eyes on the plasma balls while your shooting. They first appear to be difficult but they are traveling at a speed that is possible to dodge and they have a pattern, so you can almost just get between them and keep firing.

Glad your enjoying it so far. The ending is pretty cool - actually one of the neatest looking parts of the game.		2009-02-03 22:34:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

I played this again last night and just wanted to shower you with some more praise.

The opening scene with the sun and tree looks fantastic! I also like the little swing you had on th left

I forgot how much fun the conveyor belt ride was! Indiana Jones style music started playing in my head at this point in the level lol.

I liked the way you used spotlights as a hazard and the sound effects you chose were spot-on.

As a dad, rescuing the children made me feel good inside (OK, now I am being cheesy lol).

Anyway, great level once again. 5 stars and hearted. I still have the number one spot ha ha ha 		2009-02-05 00:03:00

Author:
OCK
Posts: 1536

haha yeah I don't have time for a comprehensive review but I enjoyed the level man. I LOLed when I saw the beginning, since it's also used in your Splat Invaders level Made me smile.2009-02-05 00:13:00

Author:
Neverynnal
Posts: 374

There was actually an interesting story behind it being the EXACT same scenery (just switched the snow material to the grass material....)

heh heh...

After the 3rd time I deleted the level off LBP because of 1 and 2 star ratings and horrible "we hate you" comments, I decided I wasn't going to ever put it out again. So I figured I would just chop a chunk out and save myself some time in the Splat Invaders game.

Well, after my LBP save game corrupted and I restored from a backup on my memory stick I decided to publish the game out for safe keeping. It was supposed to be locked, but I messed up and didn't lock the level.

Few weeks later OCK found it....		2009-02-05 00:34:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Well - I'm not Canadian... but I'm from Wiscsonsin and occasionally utter the word ";eh" at the end of phrases intended as questions. I didn't find anything offensive or objectionable on your level.

I really enjoyed it. I found the gameplay challenging but not frustrating. I loved the killer laser beam in the room with the scientist. The Maze was really fun too. I had to laugh at the statement about people going insane inside it. When I finished it I thought, "well that wasn't bad at all." I guess I was expecting some really out of proportion maze that would frustrate even Ghandi (like you occasionally find on some LBP levels.) Your maze is just about perfect for size, timing and making the player feel "I really can do this," instead of just hitting the try again option.

Overall a really fun level to play and nicely done. Thanks for deciding to share it with us. 		2009-02-11 20:49:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Tagging for play either today or tomorrow. I've been contemplating becoming a Canadian.... but since Obama won, I chose to stay 2009-02-11 22:22:00

Author:
Maraz_Matari
Posts: 105

"You must die, eh?"

That's the best line on LBP. Period.

This level was nice... I enjoyed the whole thing. What stuck out to me most was the use of sound. I always get on people about using sounds for their machines and moving parts, and whatnot... and was glad to see it in the whole laser/box press section.

The rotating maze was awesome, and so is the ship that makes a cameo from Dante		2009-02-11 22:27:00

Author:
Unknown User

Well - I'm not Canadian... but I'm from Wiscsonsin and occasionally utter the word ";eh" at the end of phrases intended as questions. I didn't find anything offensive or objectionable on your level.

Wisconsin - the OTHER Canada . I've had some great venison up your way.

And I absolutely didn't think there was anything objectionable. I'm a pretty tame designer - I use my 6-year-old as a tester. But some people are SO sensitive about the "eh?" thing!



The Maze was really fun too. I had to laugh at the statement about people going insane inside it. When I finished it I thought, "well that wasn't bad at all." I guess I was expecting some really out of proportion maze that would frustrate even Ghandi (like you occasionally find on some LBP levels.) Your maze is just about perfect for size, timing and making the player feel "I really can do this," instead of just hitting the try again option.

Ah yes, the maze - I had never thought of how complex it can be to design a maze that has to be solved by flipping it upside down and right side up. But, I thought it turned out pretty well. The "kill yourself and get out" was really in case a player got into it that hated the gameplay style when the level hit 1-star status. I was trying to figure out "WHY is this level so horrible????". I was play testing this with Snowspot (JonMartin, LittleBigApocalypse series), a third player jumped in. During the maze part his chat bubble popped up and he said "This level sucks!!"


Overall a really fun level to play and nicely done. Thanks for deciding to share it with us.

Thanks!


Tagging for play either today or tomorrow. I've been contemplating becoming a Canadian.... but since Obama won, I chose to stay

Great to know my thread will be bumped again eventually! (I really like the attention. You see the look in my eyes on the left?)



"You must die, eh?"

That's the best line on LBP. Period.

Thanks! The Canadians on this site gave me the courage to put the "eh?" back in, so I would like to share this award with them....


What stuck out to me most was the use of sound. I always get on people about using sounds for their machines and moving parts, and whatnot... and was glad to see it in the whole laser/box press section.

Sound is HUGE. It's these little details that really immerse the player. Spent a lot of time also making the helicopter sound authentic (didn't like the ambient helicopter sound that came in the sound collection).


The rotating maze was awesome, and so is the ship that makes a cameo from Dante

Putting the ship in here was pure laziness, although it turned out well - I spent about 2 hours making this ship (I'm not that good of an artist) and I was darned if I was only going to use it once. Not quite as blatant as stealing the entire outside scenery of this game to pop into the end of Splat Invaders Saga...		2009-02-11 23:12:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Yeah, I forgot about the house/swing area too lol. I like stuff like that though... it's like a signature. Certain staples that make all your work connect together... kinda like the MkII from Snatcher being in Metal Gear Solid 4.2009-02-11 23:42:00

Author:
Unknown User

Yes, I think it's kind of a cool idea to carry some objects from level to level - I'm definately using a few objects from Splat Invaders Saga in Splat II. But it takes place on an alien planet, so I'm having a hard time with placement of the ship....2009-02-12 15:16:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Lol.. I actually just posted another feedback thing in this thread, not realizing I was the first one to give feedback....

I think I've given feedback in splat invaders too, I owe you feedback but I'm not sure what to give it oN!		2009-02-12 17:41:00

Author:
Snowspot
Posts: 265

okay, finally got around to playing this one. (sorry it took a day or two long than I had originally posted.) But over all a very well done level. Couldn't think of much else to say other than perhaps make the checkpoints double life one. I had to restart a few times to make it all the way through, and most people probably wouldn't.

Liked the one room where the glass blocks came down.... you thought they were going to squish you when actually they have gass in them, nice touch.		2009-02-14 19:25:00

Author:
Maraz_Matari
Posts: 105

okay, finally got around to playing this one. (sorry it took a day or two long than I had originally posted.) But over all a very well done level. Couldn't think of much else to say other than perhaps make the checkpoints double life one. I had to restart a few times to make it all the way through, and most people probably wouldn't.

Liked the one room where the glass blocks came down.... you thought they were going to squish you when actually they have gass in them, nice touch.
Cool. Any specific place you want double-life? I generally only put them where the level needs it.		2009-02-14 20:31:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Played through this a couple days ago but I forgot to leave feedback. I really enjoyed it! I loved the setting at the beginning and then heading underground. Very cool and it looked great. I had a little trouble with the Maze of Madness (I went a little mad I guess), but it was a cool element.

My other thoughts have been pretty much summed up by everyone else. Nice visuals, cute story, and a cool boss. Good job!		2009-02-14 21:04:00

Author:
mrsupercomputer
Posts: 1335

Well I'd say at the part where the heli is shooting bombs at ya needs a double.2009-02-15 02:03:00

Author:
Maraz_Matari
Posts: 105

+ Funny Dialogue and premise
+ Acadians
+ I like the conveyor belt parts
+ unique
+ sound

- Canadians
- Boss was cool, but I think more "stages/forms" of the boss would've been neat


F4F: any of the levels in my sig (although you probably already played them and left feedback)		2009-02-18 08:29:00

Author:
cornontheCOD
Posts: 150

Thanks!

Yes, I agree more stages for the boss would be cool - but keep in mind... it's designed from a simple 50's-style robot. The simpleton nature of the robot is part of the humor.

And yes, I already did a review of 2 of your levels.		2009-02-19 14:53:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

I really liked this level. The overall feeling was great, and the sound effects in the machinery were amazing.

One major problem I found though, was right after i saved the boy, I was waiting for a platform to come but it didn't for about 10 seconds, so I jumped and fell all the way to the bottom of the map outside the level.

I'd give it 4/5 stars Great work!		2009-02-27 06:23:00

Author:
ApellesJr
Posts: 282

I really liked this level. The overall feeling was great, and the sound effects in the machinery were amazing.

One major problem I found though, was right after i saved the boy, I was waiting for a platform to come but it didn't for about 10 seconds, so I jumped and fell all the way to the bottom of the map outside the level.

I'd give it 4/5 stars Great work!
Cool. Thanks for the info. I fixed it and republished. There was a "little" area right where you jumped where I didn't stretch out the hidden gas quite enough. I also changed the timing so that the platforms will appear much faster.		2009-02-27 15:06:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Thanks for giving my levels a playthrough and for the nice feedback! I just played this one and Splat Deluxe...both terrific.

Pros:

I loved the maze...best one I've played since a community level called "which way is up?" which I recommend.

The conveyor belts were cool, though I somehow managed to break the last belt on the fast one...ended up following me down the slide and crushing me.

The final boss had some nice patterns...challenging but dodge-able.

The helicopter was sharp...kudos if you made that!

The pod at the end!

Cons:

I'm slightly red/green colorblind, and the first laser killed me 4-5 times before I figured out what was killing me. I just couldn't see it till I was looking for it. I did love the use of sound there though. It played almost like a rhythm game once I figured it out!

I'm a bit turned off by multiple text boxes in the same spot with the same camera angle. Maybe do something more cinematic with them and change the angles a bit?

Overall, a terrific level. 5/5 and hearted...and hearted you.

As an added note, I think a modified version of your ship is about to become the Black Rock. Love it.		2009-03-02 01:30:00

Author:
frizby
Posts: 89

I'm glad you liked it! And yes, I did build the helicopter.


The conveyor belts were cool, though I somehow managed to break the last belt on the fast one...ended up following me down the slide and crushing me

Yes, the conveyor is actually supposed to break. However, it's done kind of organically (not totally controlled), so it sometimes does slightly different things. The explosion combined with the floor collapsing rips the last conveyor off the belt. However, generally if you let go of the thing you are riding on it will throw you out of the way.


I'm slightly red/green colorblind, and the first laser killed me 4-5 times before I figured out what was killing me. I just couldn't see it till I was looking for it. I did love the use of sound there though. It played almost like a rhythm game once I figured it out!

There is actually a way around the laser section for you color blind folk - the "gas press" things below - if you jump up on top of the first one it will throw you up over the top of the lasers. Kind of a cheat, but I liked it so I left it in.


I'm a bit turned off by multiple text boxes in the same spot with the same camera angle. Maybe do something more cinematic with them and change the angles a bit?

Yeah, I normally do - but this was a really early level of mine (if you look at the date on the original thread, it was several months ago). I didn't really think of it. But, it's a good idea. If I'm in there I'll see about making a change.

Actually (you don't have to but) my most popular level is actually "Splat Invaders Saga" and I have a new level "Splat Invaders II: Caverns of Splat". You may enjoy these. "Splat Invaders Saga" has been on the spotlight here and featured on IGN.		2009-03-02 02:25:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430


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