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Archive: 63 posts

I will review any and all PS Vita Levels posted here as long as you follow the guidelines. The review will be broken up into categories much like every other reviewer does on this site. There is-

Uniqueness of Concept #.#/10
Gameplay #.#/10
Level Design and Flow #.#/10
Visuals #.#/10
Overall #.#/10

Each category will have a description below. At the top of the description there will be a pros/con list, then it will move into a summary and then suggestions. Throughout the entire review i will upload photos.

To request levels please post like this:

Level Name (with vita.lbp.me linked into the name (click the globe with the chain with the name highlighted))
PSN ID (with vita.lbp.me profile linked)

I will NOT review levels that are not linked to their lbp.me page. It is annoying to search up levels by name. I will however review levels without lbp.me profile link since I just ask for that in case I want to follow your progress so I'll heart you. My reviews will be posted to this thread with the links below in spoilers just so you don't have to search through reviews.

Click the image to go to the LBP.me link. Click the title to go to the review.

http://i7.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/827c5c0c4d17f4a463e8f9cd87ab7e25783b30bb.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/cc1p-)N/A
Cakito123: Jellyfish's Garden! (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1156078&viewfull=1#post1156078)

http://i3.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/1e30a883ca4537a7ab9eb740376faf564b315a47.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/gr6hs)7.0
Cakito123: Prisoner of Unlimited Limits - (Part 1) (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1147962&viewfull=1#post1147962)

http://ie.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/13e0d5c6c5d417bac2000a5c7f494a69ff822414.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/bq2rq)3.7
Johnbonbon: The Guardian (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1147815&viewfull=1#post1147815)

http://i1.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/201fc212768e1c793790aad248b29cb7ae6d44de.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/f53xd)5.0
Kalawishis: VitaCraft (1-4 Players) (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1137381#post1137381)

http://ic.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/86cb69372f3b1a3e90834c4732142d386e87d575.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/f42t9)3.4
Cybershock: By xQziCyFlaMeZxQz (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1137372#post1137372)

http://i5.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/e75900d51653602c6a96f363dad8b7525a6ebc96.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/c4weh)5.7
Kapum: Iota's Memory Match [Minigame] (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1137340#post1137340)

http://i1.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/3c14947d2a4b04a835a257b82acdd5cebb8d4d44.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/-hrdw)5.7
Cakito123: Kiwi VS Orange (Level 3 - Skai of Divyne Kotton Kandy) (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1132046&viewfull=1#post1132046)

http://i6.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/b26d2b93dd5ca16ecd9c6c9b3d93ace80c603548.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/d95e0)6.3
Deadmn: Blue3 (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1128873#post1128873)

http://i8.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/2e8853e627523bbd8e0824ad92126db4d05d5d03.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/cw5-k)6.8
Kalawishis: (LBPC10) The Time Controlinator (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1126390#post1126390)

http://if.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/d8fc906eb2f7f71c047f3916ac11d50da0995441.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/bfqhx) 6.5
Cakito123: (LBPC10) [Winner] - Prisoner of Limits (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1122824#post1122824)

http://ia.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/dda9e6fa00b7cbca4edc21298a0fe0db011d1eed.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/gvn1)3.9
unc92sax : Sackenstein (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1052148#post1052148)

http://i8.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/cc8d9043ebdb9f63f7e5810dc6463efbe36c6492.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/8q7qq)4.7
nysudyrgh: Nys Labs OmniCircle Battle (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=74627-LBPV-Reviews&p=1050534#post1050534)

http://i6.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bm/43697e21ea0bbc560feb3809d05eb34abe0b86ef.png
xQziCyFlaMeZxQz: Synergetic Sabotage

My Scoring Rubric:

0-2: Shows Potential
Level lacks balance and generally glitches or feels unsatisfying to play. Most of the time these levels feel like a level thrown together to showcase a really cool idea/concept, but fail to impress because the rest of the level just doesn't match the quality.

2-4: Average
A normally enjoyable experience that obviously has effort into creating the level but feels rushed in terms of quality at parts.

4-6: Good
A genuinely enjoyable experience with an experience that is beginning to feel unique (even if the concept is not). These levels are normally remembered for a week to a month and then forgotten by the players in terms of titles.

6-7: Great
A polished concept with a few glitches. These levels are easily remembered and often hearted.

7-8: Wonderful
Nearly a team pick quality. Little to no glitches and feels extremely polished. The LittleBigPlanet engine should feel like it was meant to create a level like this.

8-10: Inspiring
These are levels that I wholeheartedly believe should be Team Picked. No severe glitches are present. Nothing should feel rushed and everything must work together very well. There should be a point in the level that I do not know how you made what you did. I need to be awed. These are very rare levels and will have their own spoiler labeled Koltonaugust's Picks to show the world thread how great you are! I have yet to see a level of this quality on vita yet.

Note these reviews are not final so do not be discouraged if you get low numbers. I tend to give out lower numbers to leave room for improvement. If you are really unhappy with your review score (or just want another), after you improve your level you may re-request a review (Please only request a second time for the same level if you improved it drastically. Please don't waste my time since this thread is getting pretty busy. If you're not certain if you've changed it enough, you haven't)

2012-10-07 07:03:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

I'd like to request a review, I'm looking for lots and lots of feedback on this level. :3
LEVEL NAME: Nys Labs OmniCircle Battle [Link] (http://vita.lbp.me/v/8q7qq)
PSN ID: nysudyrgh [Link] (http://vita.lbp.me/home/nysudyrgh)

If you have any suggestions, encounter any bugs or have something else to say about it, go ahead!

2012-10-12 21:57:00

Author:
nysudyrgh

Posts: 5482

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42312&d=1350206695
Nys Labs OmniCircle Battle (http://vita.lbp.me/v/8q7qq)
Uniqueness of Concept 2.7/10

Pros

Multiplayer isn't nearly as used in LBP, making it different

Cons

This level sticks pretty close to its genre

Synopsis
This level receives a low uniqueness of concept score from me because I noticed little attempt in changing a commonly-used, dual-stick shooter formula. The single-player portion of the level feels very familiar to other levels I have played but changes things up a little with the invincibility obtained through the batteries. This is hardly a new power-up but it is more uncommon in LBP.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42303&d=1350204040
The multiplayer portion of the level is a nice idea though while executed, nothing feels different from single-player mode. Having nothing but the players on the map feels kind of repetitive as the timer gets about half way. The multiplayer may be a lot of fun with 4 people but most people can't connect with 4 without a lag.

Suggestions
Add stuff to the level. Make it different. Don't be afraid to experiment. Take something in your level and make it unique. Perhaps adding effects to the stages will help your level. You could add more weapons to your character. Do something to make it different since this category is what makes people remember your level, and if people remember your level, they might recommend it.

Gameplay 4.2/10

Pros

Polished controls
Obstacles are well placed

Cons

No punishment for dying
You don't die when doing nothing
The time seems really long to be fighting the same enemy

Synopsis
The gameplay in general is good. It starts off pretty fun but as time goes on it feels like you are just pressing the R button over and over again without much need for movement. There doesn't seem to be any penalty for just stopping either. Loads of enemies just surround your character.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42304&d=1350204734
In order to raise your gameplay score there needs to be a reason to continue playing. If I see that there isn't any penalty, I won't be as involved in the game as I should be.

Suggestions
Make the gameplay more dynamic besides just adding more of the same type of enemy into the stage. Multiplayer with just 2 players can be a bit dull especially if a player just spams R at your spawning point. Adding enemies would be interesting. In single player, you gain points for dying which makes it beneficial to do badly in the beginning. It would be better if there was a penalty to the score when you die in both single player and multiplayer.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42305&d=1350205213

Level Design and Flow 5.0/10

Pros

The menu works well
The controls in the game are good

Cons

Analogue stick is a weird way to control the menu
Music cycling is hard to go through quickly because you don't know when it cycles to the beginning

Synopsis
The menu's control method was kind of strange after visiting so many touch screen menus. It took about 5 seconds before I realized the analogue stick controlled the menu and it felt kind of weird. I expected the menu to be controlled by the directional pad based on its looks, and then assumed touchscreen after i found that the directional pads didn't work. All in all, it felt odd.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42306&d=1350205484
The music option was nice to have included but it felt weird toggling it on and off to choose a song. The default song was nice but to get back to it I had to slowly click it 6 times to wait and see if any music was going to play.

Suggestions
Try adding more options to controlling the menu.

Visuals 6.4/10

Pros

The style just works
Nice custom font

Cons

It's hard to see some things in game unless you focus on searching for them

Synopsis
The visuals in this level were very nice and pleasing to the eye. It had a distinct style to it which made the level immediately leave a good first impression. The instructions felt a little cheap compared to the rest of the menu but at least they were very organized and easy to read.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42307&d=1350205896
Once in the stage though, it did get kind of dark which led to me wondering where the walls were. The batteries were nearly impossible to see. I went halfway through one game without even noticing them.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42308&d=1350205918
Screenshot brighter than in game
The scoreboard of the level did end the level with a pleasing sight.
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42309&d=1350205967

Suggestions
Make it easier to see the gameplay important items/walls

Overall 4.7/10

Overall, I enjoyed your level the first time I played it, but during the second time I began to realize that it felt the same. The multiplayer is nice to include, but it doesn't really meet the singleplayer's quality in terms of gameplay. The best part about the level was definitely the visuals.

Glitches Encountered

Player Disappeared
-The player got destroyed by running into a corner (the sharp one near the spawn point).
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42310&d=1350206263
Enemy Disappeared (same corner)
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42311&d=1350206338
3rd Player Went Straight To Scoreboard (see pic with player disappeared)

2012-10-14 10:22:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

AWESOME!!! REVIEWS!!!

I would like a review on this, "please"(used the magic word to get a better review than Nys).
Level Name: Sackenstein
PSN: unc92sax
Link: http://vita.lbp.me/v/gvn1

I don't mind any constructive criticism. So if there are parts that need work, just go ahead and tell me.

Thanks,
unc92sax

2012-10-15 01:14:00

Author:
unc92sax

Posts: 928

http://ia.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/dda9e6fa00b7cbca4edc21298a0fe0db011d1eed.png
Sackenstein (http://vita.lbp.me/v/gvn1)

Uniqueness of Concept 3.1/10

Pros

A Humorous Approach to a Classic Story

Cons

Uses Unoriginal Gameplay Elements

Synopsis
While this level does add a unique style to a very old story, it mainly falls short in terms of gameplay design. Nothing new is found in the physical design of the level which leaves the user confused as the story is very original.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8464/8107477935_48c9f7002f_z.jpg
This exact dialogue box made me quit many levels before this.

Suggestions
I think the biggest changes from this could be from redesigning the first house you run into and the bosses. The house shows very little put into it compared to the rest of the level (though the character in it looks great).
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8187/8107478037_028d97a42a_z.jpg
I didn't quite see why it was there to be honest as I felt like I was forced to run a bit more. The bosses as they are, are bland and seem very unpolished. If you were to go all out on fixing these then the level would have very fun ends to sections. Right now they are rather hard to understand what to do and don't quite seem like bosses.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8052/8107481127_ec2ca862d1_z.jpg
I'm still confused from this boss.

Gameplay 3.0/10

Pros

Gameplay Often Compliments Visuals
Great Lead-ups to Should be Platforming Sections

Cons

Often Feels as if You are Returning to the Same Places
Has "LBP1" Design Flaws

Synopsis
This level's gameplay often feels lacking or often nonexistent. The beginning's gameplay is very simple but it works for the style of visuals. The only problem with the beginning is how dark the following picture's place is. It makes it hard to jump and grab onto the swing.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8191/8107485708_8571e421d1_z.jpg
From the house on, the gameplay took a dive for the worst. There were occasional moments of hope when it seemed like it was leading into something
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8334/8107489522_d5625d5953_z.jpg
but then it moved onto this
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8336/8107481643_74e7299052_z.jpg
This is probably one of the worst things that could have happened as no one wants to go back to somewhere they passed 3 minutes ago with nothing about it changed
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8336/8107481747_7a16fc4bfe_z.jpg
Other than that, the gameplay around that section was okay, nothing special though. The other thing I had a problem with was this-
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8333/8107489944_249ffc2cd4_z.jpg
I thought it was telling me to restart the level. You shouldn't force the player to die like that. It doesn't really make sense in the context either. You should have the cage break or something without forcing the player to hold to restart. If you really need the player to die, kill them yourself. It confuses the player otherwise.
The final boss was kind of disappointing and hard to see. You should make the final boss multiple parts or make a humorous death animation. The way it ends right now is choppy.

Suggestions

Try to Update the Bosses
Don't Make Players Retrace Their Steps Unchanged
Update the House

Level Design and Flow 4.2/10

Pros

The Story is Pretty Well Integrated
Generally Makes Sense When Changing Areas

Cons

Feels Choppy Towards the End
The Level Often Doesn't Flow

Synopsis
From the very beginning is clear that the story is going to be well integrated and it is (the end feels a bit rushed though with the dialogue but it's nothing major). The signs slow you down a bit on the first path. You can cleary see the sign but it still prompts you with what it says
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8327/8107489064_d79785bed5_z.jpg
The levels transitions aren't stellar though. Almost every area that you change into requires some backtracing or another.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8191/8107486394_a8f5a771bc_z.jpg
This place, the house, the graveyard, etc. While the example I showed may be miniscule, it does make the flow of the level a little bit worse. Having to use a pulley to go up to an area that you just came from feels very LBP1-tool limited. The end of the level gets really choppy with the dialogue and gameplay. Having the player kill themselves is choppy enough but the dialogue is kind of skippy.

Suggestions

Get Rid of the Small Retracing of Steps and Change Areas for the Big Ones

Visuals 5.5/10

Pros

The Darkness is Done Well
Very Detailed Parts
Nice Characters

Cons

A Lot of Places Feel Visually Neglected/Mutilated
Sometimes a Bit Too Dark

Synopsis
The beginning is stunning
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8326/8107485544_2d55555b78_z.jpg
It stays pretty good until the house. The house feels neglected with the visuals. All throughout there are moments that leave you in awe and moments that leave you looking away.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8189/8107489434_864da718b4_z.jpg
Overcrowded visuals and cactus sticking through stone
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8107481225_cf3f23659c_z.jpg
I'm not a fan of the rails

Suggestions

Spend More Time on the Rushed Parts

Overall 3.9/10

This level was pretty hard to judge as a whole because some parts really made me realize the vita's potential in visuals but other parts were not as good. Because of that, I gave it the highest possible score of the rushed portion simply because the ending left a feeling that you just played a rushed ending. If it had been switched in quality I probably would have given it a 4.2-4.5 but that score can go up if you just spend time on the parts that you felt were rushed. Great level! A positive review from me!

Glitches Encountered

Be Wary of Touchscreen (see below). One of these isn't your fault but unfortunately it happens so you might want to find a way to avoid people from getting stuck.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8476/8107489848_f9cc6aa300_z.jpg
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8327/8107486288_9da2f312fa_z.jpg

2012-10-21 10:13:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Thanks for the review. I will probably make some updates to the "rushed" parts.

2012-10-24 03:32:00

Author:
unc92sax

Posts: 928

No problem! Your level was blast to play. My reviews just focus on the negative parts because I don't really see any point in focusing that much on the good parts besides for motivation since that won't help the level, so don't think my nit-picking was anger or dislike. I honestly did really like your level and hope to see more like from you in the future!

2012-10-24 03:48:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Level link : http://lbp.me/v/gb0225
PSN ID : http://lbp.me/u/zidane6799/

2012-11-02 14:36:00

Author:
Sackie

Posts: 55

Um I think you posted in the wrong thread. This thread is exclusively for ps vita levels. Sorry! Here's a link (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=34116-DarkDedede-s-Review-Shop) to a ps3 review thread.

2012-11-03 02:24:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Overall 4.7/10

I would like a review on this, "please"(used the magic word to get a better review than Nys).

Overall 3.9/10

http://preview.images.memegenerator.net/Instance/Preview?imageID=5448220&generatorTypeID=&panels=&text0=Unc%20used%20%22PLease%22&text1=it's%20not%20very%20effective%20...&text2=&text3=

2012-11-08 20:30:00

Author:
nysudyrgh

Posts: 5482

Dang it, Nys!

I'll totally prove you wrong when I finish my level for Christmas!!! It will be my best level yet!

2012-11-11 02:14:00

Author:
unc92sax

Posts: 928

Dang it, Nys!

I'll totally prove you wrong when I finish my level for Christmas!!! It will be my best level yet!

We'll see ... Will it be better than the Anti-GravityJetpackPlatforms Section? :kz:

2012-11-11 10:28:00

Author:
nysudyrgh

Posts: 5482

We'll see ... Will it be better than the Anti-GravityJetpackPlatforms Section? :kz:
You may have amazed us on PSP with Anti-Gravity, but that is easily done on Vita...

2012-11-11 13:18:00

Author:
unc92sax

Posts: 928

Hmm... Well I don't remember when this thread seemed to be dead but I might as well revive it since I'm still willing to do reviews. I won't be giving higher scores by any mean, I'm still going to be scoring very harshly. The reason behind this is explained in previous posts but to reiterate, if you are posting here, your level already is known as good. Why? Because you have a desire for it to become better or at least make a better level in the future. I honestly enjoy 100% of the levels that have been posted in my review threads however my reviews are often quite blunt and mean. I don't do this on purpose (I tend to write these at 3AM, I'm tired, okay?) but I don't regret saying these things. You may not believe I am right on certain parts of your level and if you feel that way, good for you! My opinion is absolutely nothing. This thread should get you making opinions about your levels because after all, I'm not the one who makes the level.

2013-08-14 03:55:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

OH!! AMAZING REVIEWS! Realy liked your style

I want you to review my level, please!

Thank you

Level: (LBPC10) [Winner] - Prisoner of Limits (http://vita.lbp.me/v/bfqhx)
PSN ID: Cakito123 (http://vita.lbp.me/u/cakito123)

2013-08-14 18:21:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

http://if.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/d8fc906eb2f7f71c047f3916ac11d50da0995441.png
(LBPC10) [Winner] - Prisoner of Limits (http://vita.lbp.me/v/bfqhx)
by cakito123 (http://vita.lbp.me/u/cakito123)

I'd like to start this post off by saying this level does have a plot which this level may or may not spoil. I will try to put the spoilers in spoilers (forum wise) but I may miss one or two. You have been warned.

Uniqueness of Concept 5.3/10

Pros

A very refreshing set of powerups
A unique sense of story telling
Distinct Visual Style

Cons

The theme is often done (sky factory)
No gameplay concepts that are entirely new

Synopsis
This level acquires a better than average uniqueness of concept score because while it is essentially a basic platformer, it adds nice touches that set it above the normal level. The first touch noticeable is the narration that runs while you play the level, not too different from Thomas Was Alone (except this dialogue talks to you). This is hardly "new" but I personally have never seen it in an LBP level before.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2834/9509822613_b3dbd5109a_b.jpg
As you go along new bits of information are given to you.
The other, bigger touch is the powerups. These powerup have been done before but they feel uniquely designed for LBP which makes them a bit more special

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5323/9509871961_94200d1966_b.jpg
Gliding may not be new but it's never been this fashionable!

Suggestions
Uniqueness of concept is generally the lowest score I give. It also is the least influential score for the overall because I believe that a well polished level beats an idea that just isn't quite ready. As for the suggestions of this level, I have very little as the only way I can see improving the score is modifying/adding drastically to parts. The part I would modify is the transportation ball. I feel like it takes up so much time in the level but it hardly does anything besides jumping when you tap. It feels gimmicky. I don't know how to improve it but it is probably the most bland section of the level in terms of uniqueness.
As for adding things, I would add a bit with this
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5539/9512667514_5cc51eb6ba_b.jpg
This part was very unique to me. I felt like this was entirely new to me and while it was a bit hard to control, I didn't mind because it was like discovering something for the first time. The other thing I would add is the ball on a chain. I didn't quite see the point of that section but I did like the visuals and I think it could lead to some interesting gameplay.

Gameplay 6.0/10

Pros

Well thought out gameplay segments
Nice difficulty level

Cons

Some sections don't quite reach their full potential
Finicky controls at points
Boring transport ball

Synopsis

Overall, the level was a much-better-than-average platformer. You don't see the powerups used in other levels on LittleBigPlanet.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5329/9509872327_17abc64910_b.jpg
I feel like Mary Poppins!
The level was easy but not too easy. The main problems with the gameplay reside with finicky controls at specific parts (the tilting bounce pads and the transport ball)
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/9512609990_e48fde4c43_b.jpg
I don't know why but it felt weird jumping in the ball.

Suggestions

At the top of the tilting bounce pads, the plasma killed me many times before I realize you weren't supposed to touch the controls after you bounce there. I would prefer not dying.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2855/9512667774_b3dd007a07_b.jpg
bzzzt
As you can probably tell from what I said earlier, I detested the ball. It felt slow for a vehicle, it felt like it lagged a bit (? maybe it was just my vita. Probably was), and if you died in a section, you had to do it all over again which made it seem slower. My main suggestion would be speed it up and something I'll get to in the visual section. Also I would experiment with that wrecking ball if you made the level modular. I feel like it could have one puzzle more with that powerup.

Level Design and Flow 8.5/10

Pros

Creative Paths
Apealing Story
Nice Variety of Gameplay
Nice use of voice-over

Cons (These are kind of nit-picky since I really enjoyed the design and flow)

Gameplay changes quite rapidly from areas that need you to control the character very precisely to not needing to move the character at all.
The Star Wars-like epilogue (I assume since I've never seen Star Wars) seems unnecessary
The message of the story is never done to its full extent because I didn't end up feeling for the TV

Synopsis
Honestly the level design and flow was pretty great. There is a slight problem towards the end where some (very fun) sections that don't require much control of your sackperson are placed right after areas that require you to be in control at all times.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/9512664058_6111e1ba69_b.jpg
While it's nice to have an easy section, it is a bit annoying to die a few times before thinking it's a lot harder.
The real reason the score is penalized slightly is because of the story (which right now does add to the experience in a very good way, just not as much as it could).
I love the way there is a mystery behind the character in the beginning but in the end where he "dies" I feel like I'm supposed to be sympathetic with him, but how could I?
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5347/9509878457_679f3874d6_b.jpg
I just met the dude yet he considers me his best friend?
I mean all he did was explain what happened to me. Also the long text epilogue is quite unnecessary. I feel like just the amount of time that passed would be good.

Suggestions
I would make the "don't touch the controller" sections much more accepting of people pushing the analogue stick.
Personally I think that epilogue text should go away and simply keep the time passed. If you make the last area more easily recognized as a museum, it will tell the story without words. After all, people believe what they see, not what they hear.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/9509879583_8304a19efe_b.jpg
I'm still not sure that's a museum
Now for the next suggestion, it does NOT work well with suggestions I've given you in other sections. It probably is too much work to incorporate as it would require a rewrite of certain areas. The TV mystery doesn't add to the message. I feel like I was torn between deciding whether the story was heading in the direction of the mystery of who is talking to you or whether it was heading in the direction of nobody should live alone kind of theme. I felt most of the level was leading to the mystery but the conclusion threw a curveball that wasn't really effective since it wasn't leading to that ending. I feel like the easiest solution would be to take out the part in the epilogue saying how sackboy was his only friend which gets rid of a lot of the theme and makes it more fairytale presentation of a life lesson but it makes more sense. Otherwise you would have to find a way to make the TV important to the player. (Phew I think that part of the review was written horribly. Sorry about that!)

Visuals 6.9/10

Pros

Gorgeous "Pictures"
Interesting colour theme change midway
Very Stylized

Cons

Minor Nitpicking Moments
Another complaint about the transport ball (sorry

)
Clashing colour for electricity hazard in second half of the level
Lighting doesn't seem as nice in the second half

Synopsis
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7316/9509817617_b213daf796_b.jpg
Absolutely gorgeous starting image!
The whole first half of the level maintains this general feel of the visuals, not quite to the quality of the first picture but still up there. The clouds are honestly breathtaking as they really a certain style to the level which makes you know that this creator cared about this level. Some minor nitpicks in the first half of the level is in the first image the platforms that move have this metal bar that goes through materials which isn't too bad but a little annoying once I noticed it on my third playthrough. Another nitpick was
right before you time traveled. There was a really cheesy effect
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7315/9509870707_0973cfc678_b.jpg
Well that's kind of a lame middle climax...
It was quickly made up for by...
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5508/9588624806_1a78fea28c_b.jpg
Oh! Now this is AWESOME!

Now onto the second half!
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2877/9512660906_3804cf8bbe_b.jpg
Once again a great picture
This change in theme is very sudden but also very welcome. A change from the expected is a great addition. The only problem I have with this change is the colour correction seems odd. None of the colours really gave me an abandoned feel or unused. It mad them seem more along the dreamlike quality.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/9512664058_6111e1ba69_b.jpg
The colours pop in odd ways at areas where I don't know what to focus on.
The other thing specific to this part of the level is the green electric hazards.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5329/9509872327_17abc64910_b.jpg
Not the best picture to show what I'm talking about because it's zoomed out
They clash really oddly with the green. Normally green goes well with purple but I felt like the green was really odd and out of place whenever a lot of the screen was that colour.

The last thing for visuals I have to talk about is of course the transport ball.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3800/9509872897_0c046b9f24_b.jpg
I really liked the green on this part though!
The transport ball doesn't look entirely round to me. I think it might be too skinny so it tries to correct it or something. Anyways, it's very hard to tell it's turning right away and overall it just looks bad compared to the rest of the level. Also in this particular picture the part immediately afterwards needs a bit of work with the camera to smooth it out.

Suggestions

Rework the transport ball Visuals
Tweak the colour correction for the second half
Touch-up some of the awkward colour "pops"/clashes

Overall 6.5/10

Really a fun level that I see people hearting a lot with good reason. I think the main thing holding this level back is that it played it a little safe. The quality was top-notch but I don't see this becoming a team pick because it doesn't seem to focus on one thing in particular and knock it out of the park so to speak. While it does do everything exceptionally well, so I would recommend anyone who is on LBPV for the day to queue this level up and have a go because you don't have to be a fan of platformers to appreciate the effort put into Prisoner of Limits.

2013-08-14 21:19:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Hey, could you review this?

http://vita.lbp.me/v/cw5-k

It's rather difficult, so you don't have to finish the whole thing.

2013-08-15 04:16:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Sure thing, after I finish cakito's

2013-08-15 04:18:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Hey if you have time could you review my level

Thank you, I love getting feedback
http://vita.lbp.me/v/d95e0

2013-08-16 22:48:00

Author:
OriginalCreator

Posts: 217

Hey!
I don't think you'll finish my review, but thank you anyway!
I really like your review style, It really makes me want to get back in create mode to 'fix' all the bad things. (unfortunately, I can't beacause my Vita charger broke)

Thank you very much! :3

2013-08-23 22:48:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Oh, I'm still working on it. It just takes some time (about 2-3 hours per review (I replay the level multiple times)) and I've been busy doing things for theatre and preparing for auditions which were today. I'm planning on finishing the reviews tomorrow and hopefully get one more section done on your review tonight.

EDIT:
Well the section is done and I'm going to go to bed since I'm going to get up early. Maybe I'll finish it tomorrow morning? More likely afternoon or night though.

2013-08-24 03:00:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Now for the next suggestion, it does NOT work well with suggestions I've given you in other sections. It probably is too much work to incorporate as it would require a rewrite of certain areas. The TV mystery doesn't add to the message. I feel like I was torn between deciding whether the story was heading in the direction of the mystery of who is talking to you or whether it was heading in the direction of nobody should live alone kind of theme. I felt most of the level was leading to the mystery but the conclusion threw a curveball that wasn't really effective since it wasn't leading to that ending. I feel like the easiest solution would be to take out the part in the epilogue saying how sackboy was his only friend which gets rid of a lot of the theme and makes it more fairytale presentation of a life lesson but it makes more sense. Otherwise you would have to find a way to make the TV important to the player. (Phew I think that part of the review was written horribly. Sorry about that!)

:3

The story was supposed to be sad, not like a mystery ^^' . I really like my character Tristan, I'm even creating a prequel about how did he went to sky. Was sackboy really your only friend? What about who created Tristan? (btw I'd like to send you the key for Beta test, do you accept it? :3 )

Your review is really good, one of the best I've ever seen. Can I ask you one more review of one of my levels later? :3

Thank you! :3

2013-08-25 01:41:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

:3

The story was supposed to be sad, not like a mystery ^^' . I really like my character Tristan, I'm even creating a prequel about how did he went to sky. Was sackboy really your only friend? What about who created Tristan? (btw I'd like to send you the key for Beta test, do you accept it? :3 )

Your review is really good, one of the best I've ever seen. Can I ask you one more review of one of my levels later? :3

Thank you! :3

To answer all your questions directed towards me, yes. One thing about the story review part of the level that might influence it in a negative way is that I only played with sound the first time. Now, I still stick with my comments I made (even though they were pretty jumbled since I had a hard time trying to communicate what I was suggesting), but I will say that this level is one of the most pity-invoking levels on littlebigplanet I've played; however, I feel that more work would be needed to make me sad since I judge harshly when it comes to dramatic pieces.
I really do like the idea of using the character again in another level since I feel he has some promise. I'd love to test it

2013-08-25 05:05:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

2013-08-25 18:14:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Seeing the full review of cakito's level makes me more excited for the review of mine, especially since they're both entries in a competition, and it would be interesting to see which one you like better.

:kz:
This would be amazing.

To answer all your questions directed towards me, yes. One thing about the story review part of the level that might influence it in a negative way is that I only played with sound the first time. Now, I still stick with my comments I made (even though they were pretty jumbled since I had a hard time trying to communicate what I was suggesting), but I will say that this level is one of the most pity-invoking levels on littlebigplanet I've played; however, I feel that more work would be needed to make me sad since I judge harshly when it comes to dramatic pieces.
I really do like the idea of using the character again in another level since I feel he has some promise. I'd love to test it

I'll be sending you the key for beta test when I buy a new charger for my vita. Thank you very much once again for this awesome review. I really appreciate it! :3

The part I would modify is the transportation ball. I feel like it takes up so much time in the level but it hardly does anything besides jumping when you tap. It feels gimmicky.

Boring transport ball

The main problems with the gameplay reside with finicky controls at specific parts (the tilting bounce pads and the transport ball)

As you can probably tell from what I said earlier, I detested the ball.

Rework the transport ball Visuals

I've never seen someone that hates that transportation ball so much! lol

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

When you get ready for one more level in your queue of reviews, please tell me! :3

2013-08-25 19:02:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Haha, no I didn't HATE the transport ball, it's just that compared to the rest of the level it felt clunky where I could see it working well with a bunch of small tweaks. And you can go ahead and ask for the next level and I'll add it to the queue. I won't get to it for a while (2 weeks estimate it may be a lot shorter (idk I may be preoccupied with school/theatre) but I don't think it should be any longer) but it will be in line in case anybody else adds their level. I go on a first come, first serve basis.

2013-08-25 19:38:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Ok! So...

Here it is! :arg:

http://vita.lbp.me/v/-hrdw

Hope. You. Review. My. Level. Sometime.
Otherwise.
I will kill you. :3

2013-08-25 19:55:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

http://i8.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/2e8853e627523bbd8e0824ad92126db4d05d5d03.png (http://vita.lbp.me/v/cw5-k)
Kalawishis: (http://vita.lbp.me/u/Kalawishis) The Time Controlinator (http://vita.lbp.me/v/cw5-k)

Uniqueness of Concept 8.1/10

Pros

Extremely Unique Experience
Allows for some great puzzles

Cons

Common visual style

Synopsis

This level is absolutely oozing with a quality new gameplay concept that is, wait for it, actually FUN and well done! Normally levels that take a bold step in logic fall short by the creator's weak spots but this level correctly implements its logic in most of the stages. There are a few stages that I feel aren't great matches for the logic but I'll get to that in a later section. As for the concept, it gets a big thumbs up from me!

Suggestions

The only thing that I think that could make it more unique is a clearer visual style and/or new platforming elements/powerups (are present in the HARD levels). Other than that, I don't think anyone will have trouble identifying the level off of a short description.

Gameplay 7.2/10

Pros

Bug-free (or at least I didn't see any)
Fun puzzles

Cons

Some framerate issues in later stages
Unavoidable LBP physics weirdness

Synopsis

With this type of level, the logic has to work exactly as it is supposed to and The Time Controlinator works out the logic to do exactly that. Never did I feel as though the puzzles were unfair because of the logic (framerate however did have me rage quit on one medium stage though). The puzzles also are rather well designed. The beginning ones start off as mere platforming sections but as you go on, the levels start to rely very heavily on timing which is what this level is about.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5471/9649546757_f48d4d07c9_b.jpg
A hard level that most will probably not get to but it was REALLY fun and challenging.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3678/9649542849_9b96971dd2_b.jpg
While physics puzzles isn't the focus, it does have a small number of them. They work great!
This level manages to make some boring sections from levels in the past
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3711/9649541333_56310d0635_b.jpg
Oooooo, layer switching!
and turn it into a fun challenge of timing. While these aren't close to being the best stages, they do add quite a bit of difficulty to later levels.

Suggestions

There's quite a lot of levels but I felt that the physics system could've been played around with a bit more. The main thing that I had a problem with in this level was the framerate issue in later levels particularly this one
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/9649543165_86ee57c9ee_b.jpg
This stage is hell with wheels by the way.
Every time I tried to record my actions, the level would, without fail, have framerate issues in the middle. With a level so focused on timing this is quite a turn-off. Fortunately only a few are affected by this and most not in any way to mess with the difficulty. This does need to be fixed though. I blame it on the plasma based off of my experience with it. If there is any other way to get a visually appealing lethal material, I would go for it.

Level Design and Flow 4.7/10

Pros

Everything's Accessible

Cons

Countdown lengths are long
Buttons on menu are kind of close together
Proceed button
Level select

Synopsis

Honestly, I'm not a fan of the level design. It's quite awkward. Everything you need is there but it's just not placed in a friendly manner. To begin, the menu:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/9652781452_38081f187a_b.jpg
I was so afraid I'd hit tutorial again!
It's really close together and although it's an average menu, I couldn't stop thinking about sitting through that tutorial again if my finger slipped. Inside the menu, the level sect menu isn't especially helpful in choosing a level. I for one don't count which stage I'm on then remember what number it is so having just plain numbers to choose from does me no good. Next, the proceed button:
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2887/9649543683_cc66b827c7_b.jpg
I don't really see much point in a proceed button anyways.
The proceed button is kind of a nice idea in case you want a picture of your completed puzzle but it's kind of a nuisance having to reach for the button every time you finish a level. I often found my finger missing the proceed button even though I was sure I tapped it. Lastly, the countdowns are a bit long. I didn't mind the countdown before you recorded but I found the countdown to watch the recording tediously long.

Suggestions

I'm too tired to write a paragraph explaining these nicely
Space the menu buttons out just a bit more
Add a picture for the level sections instead of just numbers
Move Proceed button to a place that's easier to access (lower right)
Reduce countdown time. Perhaps instead of "3, 2, 1, Go!" Just do "Ready? Go!"

Visuals 5.5/10

Pros

Clear visual difference between present and the future
Cool waves on the bottom of the screen
Visuals help with gameplay

Cons

Wave often messes up
Not really future looking
Logic is often ugly

Synopsis

If I could describe the visuals of this level in one phrase, that phrase would be "simple but effective." While I don't really think the grid based looks futuristic, it does help with the timing aspect of the gameplay.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5507/9652781050_93159a9baa_b.jpg
I managed to do this level in one try thanks to the grid!
Another helpful visual aspect which looks amazing is the wave on the bottom. The only problem is this wave often messes up and it can be hard to tell when you are pushing a button.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5447/9652780290_5fb89b55d3_b.jpg
Hardly a wave anymore.
Another small note is the logic when placed weirdly is ugly. Example:
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2870/9652775556_7b5d33955c_b.jpg

Suggestions

Add something to make it look more time related.
Fix the wave
Place logic nicer.

Overall 6.8/10

I was quite impressed with this little gem of a level when I played it. While it does have it's shortcomings (level design and occasional boring stage), if you (easily) look past these you will find a level that makes a name for itself through completely unique logic and huge amounts of content to keep you busy for at least an hour or two.

Glitches Encountered
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3695/9649547485_918360cd06_b.jpg
A small visual glitch. When I tried using the right stick, the turret didn't rotate. It only responded to the left stick.

2013-09-01 19:03:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Oh, you don't have to finish the whole thing. Out of the near 700 people who've played it, only one has finished. Although, the prizes I give for progression are very much worth it.

2013-09-01 21:11:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Well I'm going to try and get as far as I can. Right now I'm having trouble because the plasma is causing a framerate issue on the already hard to time stage with the spinning wheels.
EDIT:
Just beat it. After I got past that one stage, the other ones were easier. Also that prize is nice. I'm interested in seeing the logic as I can only think of a REALLY complicated way to record movements which might be what you did. I'm going to review it first so that I have a completely non-logic-knowing approach.

2013-09-01 21:47:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Wow! I really like your review style!

I'd be honored if you reviewed my level "Iota's Memory Match". http://vita.lbp.me/v/c4weh
Here's the link for my profile: http://vita.lbp.me/u/Kapum

Thanks!

2013-09-02 17:41:00

Author:
Kapum

Posts: 103

The review.

HA! IN YOUR FACE CAKITO I WON!

But seriously, this is probably one of the best reviews I've ever received. I thought you would find the level too difficult and not be able to finish, but you persisted, and I thank you for that. I also appreciate the thoroughness a lot, and the lack of sugarcoating. Hope you enjoy the prizes!

2013-09-03 02:12:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Ha, the lack of sugarcoating is simply because I'm bad at it

I'm a jerk on the internet sometimes and reviews are the only acceptable place to do it in my opinion! But in all seriousness sugarcoating makes me leave out some things that I think could be improved.

2013-09-03 03:48:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

HA! IN YOUR FACE CAKITO I WON!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWaLxFIVX1s

2013-09-04 23:59:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Could you review this one for me please?

http://vita.lbp.me/v/f42t9

2013-09-07 07:04:00

Author:
IcyFlamez_

Posts: 118

Sure thing and sorry I didn't get to your level this weekend deadmn. I have two auditions this week one of which I just found a good monologue so I have to memorize today and on top of that, other homework and getting off book for the first act of the current production by tomorrow. I promise I will get to it soon but probably not until this upcoming saturday. Sorry!

2013-09-08 22:17:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Hey, I liked your other review a lot so I'm going to ask for another one:

http://vita.lbp.me/v/f53xd

Will be much appreciated, but there's no rush.

2013-09-10 00:14:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Oo, a logic level

I'll be busy this Saturday with these reviews

I'll queue it in the main thread soon. Just got home and it's already 10pm so time for bed if I want to get up early and do my homework!

2013-09-10 04:36:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Hi, could you review my level?
http://vita.lbp.me/v/bq2rq
BTW you have an awesome review style!

2013-09-15 14:53:00

Author:
himoks

Posts: 734

http://i6.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/b26d2b93dd5ca16ecd9c6c9b3d93ace80c603548.png
Blue3: (http://vita.lbp.me/v/d95e0)By Deadmn (http://vita.lbp.me/u/deadmn)

Uniqueness of Concept 6.7/10

Pros

Innovative gameplay mechanics
Interesting simple feel

Cons

Stays pretty close to the LBP platformer recipe
Visually similar to a lot of levels

Synopsis

This level showcases a very neat little custom powerup that provides better use to the touch mechanic than a lot of levels so far. That being said it is a very unique level gameplay wise however the visuals have no clear distinction from a lot of community levels or LBP2's Eve's asylum level set.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/9762877694_35479db510_b.jpg
The most potential "pop" I see is from the mix of ruins/metal material that is scattered throughout but never fully takes shape.

Suggestions

The jungle theme is often overdone so if you choose to go that route (which you did

) I would recommend putting something in to make it "pop." For example, Eve's asylum was done well visually because it had a clear water/fire theme with some lighting effects. This level didn't leave any sort of impression with a theme.

Gameplay 6.3/10

Pros

Nice Puzzle/Platformer action
Didn't have any useless sections

Cons

Very buggy
Blocks had to hit completely in order to work

Synopsis

The gameplay was very fun. I found the difficulty to be perfect so I never was stuck but I did have those epiphany moments without the struggle. The main problem I had with the level was how often it didn't work. In one playthrough I encountered 3 spots where I had to hold to retry and 1 spot where I had to actually restart the level.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2824/9762877535_fdc74d1893_b.jpg
You might not be able to see but the platform that is supposed to come down went poof

Suggestions

I'd recommend a good old fashioned bug cleaning! Other than the few big bugs I don't see much wrong with the gameplay. It's very polished. One little peeve I had with the mechanics though was the block wouldn't move if it wasn't fully on.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/9762942343_3708c49106_b.jpg
I don't really see much of a problem to allow it from here.
But the real problem area was
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/9762659401_6910530cf4_b.jpg
I still have no idea why it was required to shoot the block on the side. Maybe visually it looks cool but I was confused for a bit here.

Level Design and Flow 9.1/10

Pros

Always had a cool path
Everything felt interactive

Cons

Some buttons were a bit hard to see

Synopsis

This level has the best level design I've seen in LBPV. It manages to take some LBP1 style with how everything interacts and put into LBPV where it is easier to use more advanced logic that is generally more stable.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3692/9762947573_702ef4c4e7_b.jpg
One of my favourite paths in the level.
The best part of this level was that whatever you did with your block, even if it didn't do anything, it felt like it was shaping the path you could take despite its linearity.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3710/9762869296_97a197321d_b.jpg
Even from the beginning the paths are cool!

Suggestions
Make the buttons that push things back a layer a bit more visible.

Visuals 5.0/10

Pros

Everything is neatly made
Buttons work nicely with the visuals

Cons

Nothing stands out
The background is a bit awkward
Almost every area looks the same

Synopsis

Visually this level is just about average for a great level. Nothing really makes it great but it doesn't hurt the experience because the rest of the level works.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2861/9762871734_ba7ee5fb24_b.jpg
Visually this is my favourite spot
Everything is pretty clear on what to do and where to go.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7329/9762864036_acabe55549_b.jpg
The spikes are a nice warning to check what I'm doing carefully.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3812/9762884425_07f8b9f5a6_b.jpg
This area was fun and visually cool!
But overall they could use some improvement.

Suggestions

Mess with the background a bit. The purple looks strange.
Add a bit of variety to different sections of your level
Add a unique theme

Overall 6.3/10

I'd recommend this level to anyone who feels like there isn't any good use of the touch feature as this level shows us how it's done. Also anyone who misses the old LBP1 emphasis on physics transitions would like this as well. If you play normally there shouldn't be too many glitches but be aware that you might need to hold to retry a time or two. Cool level that's worth a queue.

2013-09-15 19:41:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Thank you so much for doing this. I'm sorry you found it buggy but a lot of bugs in the level is down to a bug in the actual game. When a piece of material is set to sticky and lands on a piece of material set to static, the static material then inherites the dynamic attribute of the sticky material which can cause stuff to break

I tried reporting the bug, but nothing came of it. But the bugs that caused you to pop are new to me, I had a few friends beta test it for a while and they didn't find any problems. Were there any particular areas particularly problematic.

I'm glad you liked the puzzles. I agree that the shooting it kinda annoying. I tried my best to make it not suck by using gyroscopes, I could try using followers to improve it slightly so you don't need to be dead accurate.

That score for flow is amazing thank you. I spent a while piecing the level together so it felt nice and progressed nicely.

Visual is by far my weakest part of my creating. My main aim when creating this level was to focus mainly on the gameplay and try make the visuals not completely ugly. But yeah it's pretty generic

But thank you so much for the feedback!

2013-09-15 21:31:00

Author:
OriginalCreator

Posts: 217

It was a bit weird. The first time I played it I didn't find a single bug. The second time I played it (I forgot the pictures

) I was bombarded with stuff breaking/not working properly. I don't know how I did it but it happened. The main problems I had was the blocks disappearing by hitting the wall on the layer change part so I would go into the back layer but the block wouldn't hit the button below so I wouldn't be able to go anywhere. There's a picture in the review with that particular spot. The other ones were just bad luck for me I think.
As for the visuals you succeeded in making them not look ugly. 5 is actually a pretty good score since I judge everything on harsh scale. I believe 2 is average on my scale. 5 is better than average and 7+ is Amazing.

EDIT:
Sorry guys, I didn't get around to reviewing a level this weekend. I'll try and fit it in sometime this week.

2ND EDIT 9/29:
I'm so sorry guys! I doubt I'll get a review in this week either but I promise I'll get one in next weekend. Just bear with me since this week is the week of our show so it's pretty chaotic.

2013-09-15 22:52:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

http://i1.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/3c14947d2a4b04a835a257b82acdd5cebb8d4d44.png
Kiwi VS Orange (Level 3 - Skai of Divyne Kotton Kandy): (http://vita.lbp.me/v/-hrdw)
By Cakito123 (http://vita.lbp.me/u/cakito123)

*Before I begin I would like to say that I have not played the previous levels in the series as I do not have enough time to do that at the moment. Therefore, I can only comment so much on the story.

Uniqueness of Concept 4.5/10

Pros

Unique platforming visuals
Humor in presenting the story

Cons

Essentially another sky platformer
Only one truly new gameplay mechanic

Synopsis

Essentially this level is another sky platformer. However, it does add a cool way of presenting itself that will keep you entertained and not caring that it uses a common visual/gameplay theme. The visuals do stand out a bit from other levels with the randomness and the humor is quite funny especially in the beginning sequence. There is a neat new gameplay mechanic of sliding down a rail but I will discuss that more later.

Suggestions

Spice up the gameplay a bit more. I know that this is hard to do once a level is completed but this section is always the hardest to improve.

Gameplay 5.7/10

Pros

Fun platforming sections
A variety of gameplay

Cons

Framerate issues around chain parts
Feels a little gimmicky at parts

Synopsis

This level has very fluid gameplay throughout but the main issue is it slows down considerably whenever the chains are present.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7343/10130957576_af2c85009e_b.jpg
A bit hard to jump with framerate issues
There is plenty of gameplay but sometimes it feels a bit gimmicky when it gets to touching the screen to control the sackboy snake.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5338/10130924374_bce0ca01b2_b.jpg
wakawakawaka
The best part of the gameplay is the platforming sections. They are quite fun and medium-fast pace with a bit of randomness to spice things up a bit.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2847/10130958326_2d04dc6e28_b.jpg
Don't stop!

Suggestions

Rework the logic for the chains
Add something unique to the touch/tilt controlled areas

Level Design and Flow 7.1/10

Pros

Nice camera work on cutscene
Flows from area to area

Cons

No ability to skip the long cutscene

Synopsis

The level design works for this level well. The paths are a bit simple so it's not super cool to see the transitions but they definitely are still nice to see. The cutscene is genuinely funny, something that is hard to achieve LBP.

The only problem is that it is only funny the first time.

Suggestions

Realistically the only thing I can suggest is the ability to skip the cutscene but in an ideal world I would say complicate the paths a bit more and make them feel intertwined, but that's not really possible without restarting the level from scratch.

Visuals 6.2/10

Pros

The Randomness works
Colorful in a good way

Cons

A bit crowded at times and empty at others
Cutscene room is empty

Synopsis

At first I was not a fan of the visuals at all, but as the level progressed I realized how well everything actually went together.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7300/10130811784_8932bfe011_b.jpg
Starting gameplay image.
The randomness definitely takes some getting used to but it creates some cool looking platforms.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5496/10130880165_cfaa112ef1_b.jpg
I'm a little flower pot short and stout!
The colors also are a great with everything going on as well.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2829/10130955246_a09d3722e4_b.jpg
Look at the pretty swirl!
The major downfall to this style is anytime it changes to more normal is plenty noticeable.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/10130818094_8a3eec8257_b.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3752/10130991275_ed4813f1df_b.jpg
Feels so empty...

Suggestions

[LIST]
If you're going to go for random, keep it random all the way. The balls started getting a bit predictable but afterwards it was back to the normal unknown.
Add some decoration to the cutscene room or do something with it because as it is now, it looks kind of weird.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2872/10130951906_def902a3c2_b.jpg
I think it might be the chair.

Overall 5.7/10

This is another great platformer that I think just about anyone would find some enjoyment in. It's great as a standalone level but I'm sure it's even better as a series so go on and start playing!

2013-10-07 04:13:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Is that the full review? Rather short.

2013-10-08 02:17:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Oh, definitely not! I just forgot to put to be continued at the end. I know that these have been taking forever but please bear with me everyone! There have been projects due on show week so I haven't had time but this week I'm going to try as hard as I can to catch up.

2013-10-08 07:03:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Thank you very much for reviewing my level.
I really appreciate the awesome work you do here.

I'll see what I can do with the cutscene room... Thanks.

2013-10-18 22:04:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Oh my goodness! I didn't even realize 3 weeks had passed since my last review. Don't worry, I'll go on a reviewing frenzy some time this week so the queue will be cleared.

2013-11-11 05:32:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

And here to start the reviewing frenzy...

http://i5.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/e75900d51653602c6a96f363dad8b7525a6ebc96.png
Iota's Memory Match [Minigame] (http://vita.lbp.me/v/c4weh)
By Kapum (http://vita.lbp.me/u/Kapum)

Uniqueness of Concept 4.0/10

Pros

Does a genre that is basically untouched in LBP
Does some neat things with the score system

Cons

It doesn't experiment at all really

Synopsis

Let's face it. A memory match game isn't going to score too high on the uniqueness of concept; however, the level shines elsewhere and it does also add a bit of fun things to the score system. Not much but some.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/10915134385_783f870bcc_b.jpg
Bonuses are given out but I never received any for my mistakes

So why isn't this score lower? That's simple. I haven't seen a whole bunch of levels that have to do with memory match in LBP, especially none that do it so well.

Suggestions

The level is pretty solid as it is so anything to boost this part of the score would take a lot of work to match the current quality. A different mode would be the easiest thing to boost the score.

Gameplay 6.5/10

Pros

Easy to follow
No glitches
Random dealing works well

Cons

Repetitive
Only so much replay value

Synopsis

Basically anything you think of memory match applies to this level's gameplay. You get to choose from three difficulties which is nice and the scoring happens for you which makes it a bit more fun but other than that it has the same rules. (Oh, and you get bonus points for multiple matches in a row.)
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5516/10915178436_f57c2c0748_b.jpg
No points for me...

Suggestions

Once again this is kind of hard to say since it follows a set of rules that is already defined. The only thing I can think of is adding variety. Now as to how you could do that, I don't know.

Level Design and Flow 6.7/10

Pros

Does what it needs to and does it well

Cons

Tutorial doesn't explain scoring but it's pretty easy to figure out

Synopsis

This level does what it intends to do and does it simply and well. It has a few menu buttons (Play, How to play, and some difficulty settings) and there are no nonsense buttons that you wonder what their purpose is. It's quite straight forward and that's the way it should be, but it does sometimes feel too simple. There's nothing besides the game and the obvious tutorial which is barely necessary in the shape it's in.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7313/10915181326_30d4b3c335_b.jpg
Simple and to the point.

Suggestions

I would suggest making the tutorial explain the scoring as I'm pretty sure most people already know how memory match works but not necessarily how you score. Also a reset button would be nice so that we don't have to restart the level every time but that is being picky.

Visuals 8.7/10

Pros

Stunning
Very clean and precise
Color coded for gameplay

Cons

That logo on the front does not blend
Score blocks two cards

Synopsis

The visuals for this level work wonderfully. Everything fits so well and does it's job but that awful color interruption caused by that logo in the lower-right on the title screen.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5523/10915131735_cff5bf00a4_b.jpg
Nice, fast little intro.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3766/10915180546_eeabf0448e_b.jpg
Even the scoreboard looks nice!

Suggestions

Make the logo fit in with the theme.

Overall 5.7/10

Overall, this level is a very nice and precise memory match game. Every thing you expect from a memory match game is in here plus it has a great look to it. I wouldn't go in expecting a huge twist on the formula you know but it's definitely worth a play if you enjoy a classic!

2013-11-17 22:57:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

http://ic.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/86cb69372f3b1a3e90834c4732142d386e87d575.png
Cybershock (http://vita.lbp.me/v/f42t9)
By xQziCyFlaMeZxQz (http://vita.lbp.me/u/xQziCyFlaMeZxQz)

Uniqueness of Concept 2.1/10

Pros

Takes a stance on the visuals
Shows potential for new things

Cons

Never actually does anything new

Synopsis

This level is one of many "tech-city" levels that I have recently played on LBP vita so as you can imagine, I will be grading a little harshly in this category. The only thing that I see that is new to this sub-genre is the visuals but even those aren't changed much.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2892/10917770804_f303ed5ab6_b.jpg
Sure, it looks nice but I've seen many a level with this colour palette.

Suggestions

Make the level unique somehow! Make it your own! I know the plasma is a bit different but it still sticks so closely to the same tired formula I've seen so much lately that it doesn't make a difference. I would try and work on adding a bit of different styles of gameplay to your platforming. It gets better towards the end but the beginning is quite similar to a lot of other gameplay I've sat through before.

Gameplay 4.4/10

Pros

Some fun almost puzzle platforming towards the end
Guinely feel good platforming sections

Cons

Plasma frame rate issues
Some boring sections that involve unecessary wating

Synopsis

Overall the gameplay was pretty fun but I constantly felt it was being dragged down by a few dull moments.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/10917933633_bee62407ec_b.jpg
Take for instance, this part. The top section was fun but the bottom section was entirely a slow, waiting section.
Other parts were pretty hard to do because of touch-implementation.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/10917935593_6f3388a6d2_b.jpg
I'm looking at you end of part one

However, once in a while there would be a really fun section that was slightly challenging but not enough to make you annoyed and require no waiting, just skill/figuring out what to do.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5508/10917937433_1e486f59d8_b.jpg
This was my favourite part of the level.

Suggestions

Scrap the gameplay that relies on waiting. It's boring. Try to replace those sections that require more moving so you aren't just standing still for half a minute.

Level Design and Flow 3.0/10

Pros

I got through the level
The level link was fun

Cons

I could touch the level border
Hard to see what to do
Useless tutorials

Synopsis

The very first thing I should mention is that unless you are using the level border for some neat visual, it should NEVER be visible!
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7302/10917929583_91772525d7_b.jpg
AGHHHHHHH PET PEEEEEEEVE!
Now that rant is out of the way, I found the level a bit hard to navigate. The camera was zoomed out so far and everything was so bright; it was disorienting. I especially didn't know what happened at the very end. Was the level supposed to be longer?
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2829/10917930503_3a7cb38ebb_b.jpg
Bad example but you get the idea.
The tutorials were also a complete wast of time. Not to mention I listened to it twice since I went left after the level link (why did the gate disappear? You could have just kept it there and not had to have re-included the previous gameplay.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3670/10917936663_43be8f1078_b.jpg
I hate obvious tutorials.

Suggestions

Make the path a bit more obvious. I had a really hard time going through the entire level since I often thought I went the wrong way. Get rid of the tutorial as well. The icons were enough to know what to do.

Visuals 5.8/10

Pros

Some areas looked great
The theme was pretty consistent

Cons

So bright
A bit too much holo

Synopsis

Holo material is great, don't get me wrong, but there is a point where it becomes too much. A lot of the time it hurt to look at the screen whenever there was only plasma and holo visible but the other sections looked great. Try to find a balance.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/10917693565_b8cd9f59e2_b.jpg
So pretty!

Suggestions

At least tone down the brightness on the holo.

Overall 3.4/10

I can't say that this level is a must play but it definitely does have its own moments which make the level fun. While I do think a touch-up could do the level a world of good, it is still in a very playable state and you could enjoy it.

2013-11-18 02:26:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Sorry for the quadruple post but I think reviews should have their own post.

http://i1.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/201fc212768e1c793790aad248b29cb7ae6d44de.png
VitaCraft (1-4 Players)
By Kalawishis (http://vita.lbp.me/v/f53xd)

*Before I begin I would like to remind readers that, as with all other levels reviewed, the scores are more arbitrary than off of a score system. Each level has its own little scale that comes into my head as I go along. It's a bit of the luck of the draw because I go off of pre-conceived notions of what a level similar to the one I'm reviewing CAN be. Therefore with levels that don't follow anything I've played before follow a scale that I can only ASSUME possible.

Uniqueness of Concept 6.2/10

Pros

Nice, not really seen often save system
Explores a new genre

Cons

No real new gameplay

Synopsis

To begin, yes it's a level based off of Minecraft, but that doesn't make it unoriginal. The concept is somewhat new in LBP (this is definitely the best functioning of similar concepts) and unfortunately the main gameplay is largely unaltered from what other people have tried. The real unique concept is the save system. This system has been used but never to such a large scale. It saves a pretty good size grid for later play and does so very well (although one row didn't save whenever I played).
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2886/10973205273_0166246f48_b.jpg
Still a pretty good record though if it only didn't save one!

Suggestions

This is pretty hard to suggest certain things because this level is so logic oriented and most suggestions would ignore logic, but I'll suggest them anyways! If there were any way to make animated blocks or "animals" that move around that would be a neat little thing (but actually make it cool instead of what I just described). Anything on the lines of dynamic would be pretty epic in my opinion and would definitely boost the uniqueness.

Gameplay 2.5/10

Pros

Fun with friends

Cons

Boring alone
You're kind of just placing blocks

Synopsis

I hate to be so harsh after a good start to the review but sadly I don't see any sort of gameplay in this level besides placing blocks which you can jump on. Unfortunately this is quite overused but fortunately it's not really what is focused on in this level.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5541/10973133684_96b87847f3_b.jpg
Without creativity this is what the level looks like, and believe me, it's not much fun.
To be fair it does resemble creative mode in minecraft quite well but the limits on how many blocks you can have is a bit restrictive. Besides that there is a minor change.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7397/10973131104_59cd99b4ea_b.jpg
Beware hardcore Minecraft fans! The cracks don't disappear :O
Hehe, personally I like that.
Also to note is this
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7443/10973142994_9995cabdb7_b.jpg
You can phase through walls if you jump!
Obviously a glitch but I thought I'd put it here

Suggestions

Fix the jump glitch
Add something to do (I know this is hard since it's creative minecraft and its logic is complicated but...

Level Design and Flow 6.7/10

Pros

Does its job well
Has everything it needs

Cons

Dialogue boxes are annoying and disappear weirdly

Synopsis

This design is perfectly functionable. There are some nice features, some bad features, and some average features.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/10973181663_b71be43d46_b.jpg
Does its job perfectly well.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3680/10973056436_39c57fb6d2_b.jpg
Prevents me from messing any thing up! >

The main complaint I have is seeing the character is impossible under blocks. This can cause some pretty annoying problems and kind of puts a damper on hide and seek.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7444/10973134874_1a1e703bf2_b.jpg
Some where in that mess of blocks is me.
Another problem with sight is not being able to see what you have selected whenever you are above a block.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3775/10973045376_39642e26a0_b.jpg
Where'd my selection go?
And the last complaint is the pointer gets lost if you go off screen
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/10973047766_42112d399c_b.jpg
I have no idea why I used this picture to describe what I'm talking about.

Suggestions

Fix some sight issues and this level will improve quite a lot.

Visuals 4.9/10

Pros

Stylized

Cons

Some ugly textures that are the default blocks
Not much variety
No stickers

Synopsis

This level is pretty simple with visuals and it makes a nice style but when it ultimately when it comes to creating, it falls a little flat.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/10972963905_10d52760f9_b.jpg
Pretty good visually but this is about all I could make that looked decent.
The level is pretty nice and chooses some different colors to choose from for blocks but what it really should have done is chosen completely different textures and allow stickers to be used.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3775/10973045376_39642e26a0_b.jpg
The materials to choose from.
You can do a surprisingly large amount of things with those materials especially since you start out with...
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3730/10972948375_be7e4fd74e_b.jpg
this
but I wasn't really impressed with it all that much.

Suggestions

Enable stickers and if possible add more variety to textures.

Overall 5.0/10

For any hardcore Minecraft fans for sure. Other people who would enjoy it are logic freaks like me

2013-11-18 03:25:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Hey! Now that your Queue for reviews are almost empty, here I am with one more request!

Thank yoooooooooou.

http://vita.lbp.me/v/cc1p-

Rawr.

2013-11-19 13:01:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Will be waiting very eagerly for the full review. Or, at least I hope you made a placeholder and didn't accidentally delete your full review somehow before posting. Let's change the font here-whoops...

2013-11-21 02:18:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Wow, I was smiling throughout this whole review xD. I really like your style. It feels almost like you're an actual game reviewer. You're also the only one who has given me constructive criticism that I'd never think of myself. Also, I have played very very few LBPV levels so I has no Idea about the setting being used a lot. It actually wasn't supposed to be a city, but more like a facility.

Oh yeah, and I added in the obvious tutorial to cater to stupid people =P.

2013-11-22 22:52:00

Author:
IcyFlamez_

Posts: 118

WOO! Thanks for the review! It's so detailed!

2013-12-01 14:09:00

Author:
Kalawishis

Posts: 928

Hello!
Do you still reviewing levels? Because if you do, I have a request!

2014-03-02 16:34:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

To be quite honest I forgot about this thread whenever LBP was down in December. Woops! Just give me the level link and I'll be happy to review that and the two I have left this Saturday though. I would love to get back to reviewing!

2014-03-05 05:52:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Yay!

Here it is, waiting anxiously for your review. :3

http://vita.lbp.me/v/gr6hs

2014-03-06 18:17:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

http://ie.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/13e0d5c6c5d417bac2000a5c7f494a69ff822414.png
The Guardian (http://vita.lbp.me/v/bq2rq)
By johnbonbon (http://vita.lbp.me/u/johnbonbon/levels)

Uniqueness of Concept 3.6/10

Pros

New visual take on a theme

Cons

No new gameplay
Very old-school RPG-style story

Synopsis

If you're looking for something new, this level isn't the prime example for uniqueness; however, if you want to see some different visuals, that is where this level shines, literally. The guardian has some great uses of lights and manages to find a different feel to the level.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7331/13023495195_ed33b0c7b8_b.jpg
Pretty lights!
Once you get used to the new visuals though it feels like a LBP1 level put into the vita with LBP2 graphics. While I do find that going LBP1 style does set a level apart from the others I don't think this level benefited from going halfway. Personally I think LBP2 style fits it more but that could be proven wrong.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7360/13023893824_2106282517_b.jpg
The boss was especially LBP1-esque.

Suggestions

I would suggest working on the gameplay quite a bit. Make it original and make it your own. Right now it feels like a bunch of pieces of other levels strung together to match your level but it doesn't quite fit and it doesn't set it apart.

Gameplay 2.0/10

Pros

Very few glitches
Shows potential in spots

Cons

Long segments of no gameplay
Short and abrupt gameplay chunks

Synopsis

The gameplay in this level was definitely the weakest element of the level. It felt as though it was an afterthought or unfinished whenever it was implemented. The instructions of each gameplay segment was also incredibly unclear, though I consider this to go along with design and flow, some parts were nearly impossible to figure out.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3071/13023667083_2829d4953d_b.jpg
Still not sure if I did this the way it was supposed to be done.
This bled a bit into the boss as well as it followed a strict pattern that just repeated but I never fully understood what each attack did and it was more of trial and error for the two loops it took to defeat.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7308/13023505355_2fed79f96b_b.jpg
What happened?
There were a few interesting moments and parts that had potential though.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7432/13023662613_d5e282a128_b.jpg
While I hated this part, it did show potential.

Suggestions

Take time with gameplay and don't force certain ideas to work with your level. Most ideas won't work unless they are in the perfect setting. For this level, I did see some good things with the plasma ball and bridge section if it were tweaked and extended. Also make sure it's more obvious on what to do and to fix this:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3209/13023499715_d29f6e30e0_b.jpg
Under the bucket.

Level Design and Flow 3.2/10

Pros

Clear Story
Often has good transitions

Cons

Beginning has logic problems
Moments of nothing
Hard to see where to go

Synopsis

Overall the level does have some flow issues but it essentially lies with the simple prologue, gameplay, ending flow that the general LBP level follows.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3096/13023860614_217209a936_b.jpg
A decent beginning but...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7301/13023474335_0fb8d8ac0b_b.jpg
The transition between text bubbles kept changing the focus between the prologue and sackboy AKA logic problems.
The main problem of the flow is how hard it is to discover what to do next. Most gameplay motions had me wondering what to do next but the first was the worst.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7402/13023885334_37444513e1_b.jpg
It took me about 5 minutes to figure out where to go on this part.

Suggestions

Suggestions are really hard for this category as it's hard to redesign a level's flow without remaking a level so these are more for future levels. The main suggestion that goes for all categories is to take a risk! You might fail but if you don't, the results will be outstanding. The easy thing you can fix is the little logic in the beginning (it's right in the good ending) and make it more obvious on where to go.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2317/13023888914_e88a7dfaa8_b.jpg
It's hard to see.

Visuals 5.8/10

Pros

Magnificent lighting
Great detail

Cons

Repetitive
Needs one more touch up

Synopsis

The visuals of this level are pretty great. What makes it so great? I would say the lighting.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7331/13023495195_ed33b0c7b8_b.jpg
This is one of many moments that nails the visuals perfectly.
The level also has some variety in the mood and colour of the lighting
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/13023892014_f18a9ebd2e_b.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3463/13023681873_7c558c7c61_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7402/13023679973_04160c983d_b.jpg
Oooo... Ahhhhh!
Now the flaw of the visuals is two things—how often only three objects are used and the occasional sloppiness of the level. And yes that is right, three objects are used constantly throughout the level, a sword, a flower, and a stone thing. The sword thing makes no sense to me and legitimately confused me but then just bored me. The sloppiness isn't that common but it does show every now and then.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/13023660683_abc0492e97_b.jpg
Fortunately the only bad transition I saw but there were a few slip ups with visuals.

Suggestions

Touch up the level once and it will be much smoother. The main thing to boost this part of your score would be to make each area have a more unique look to it by adding some more objects to the decorations.

Overall 3.7/10

Overall a very pretty level with gameplay flaws. Definitely worth keeping your eye on this creator as they show potential.

2014-03-09 04:28:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

Because this level is more recent I'll do this one first then go to the other by the same creator:

http://i3.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/1e30a883ca4537a7ab9eb740376faf564b315a47.png
Prisoner of Unlimited Limits - (Part 1) (http://vita.lbp.me/v/gr6hs)
By: Cakito123 (http://vita.lbp.me/u/cakito123/levels)

Uniqueness of Concept 8.2/10

Pros

Feels incredibly different
Uses no common gameplay elements
Great use of recorded voices

Cons

No unheard of gameplay mechanics

Synopsis

Honestly this level took me by surprise. I had played the Prisoner of Limits and enjoyed that level but this level goes even further with what made that level shine and goes for it with outstanding results. The main thing that this level shines at is having a feeling of its own.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2749/13051765723_9ed15950c7_b.jpg
Look at the pretty cartoony colours!
The gameplay matches the visuals perfectly and don't follow anything I've seen before in LBPV. There are however elements of this level that I have seen individually elsewhere so I can't give the level too high of a score as the only truly 100% new thing is the humour presented in the dialogue.

Suggestions

Keep thinking of new gameplay. I know it's hard but that's the struggle of making a platformer fun. Is it really reasonable for you to constantly have never before seen gameplay. No, but you should always strive for it which I believe you did in this level.

Gameplay 6.2/10

Pros

New and fun gameplay
None of the sections fall flat

Cons

Feels like there's not enough

Synopsis

The gameplay in this level is fun at its roots but it never quite grows to its full potential in the level.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3570/13051975714_2e42f8b7bc_b.jpg
Being forced to move really made me pay attention
Each gameplay section that is new starts off with a really easy challenge that functions as a tutorial.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7352/13051796273_732d25f413_b.jpg
Seems simple enough.
While I did have trouble on the magnet part because I had no idea what to do, it was extremely easy. The second use of the gameplay element would throw a bit more complexity into it but not really any difficulty.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3573/13051649615_e5214d5675_b.jpg
Not nearly as hard as it looks, and it looks pretty easy.
After that it basically stopped. There was one part that combined two ideas and that was wonderful but that was the only time I saw something like that.

Suggestions

I know the level has a second part in development which might be why this section of the review has the comment to add more to the gameplay beyond the simple "I can do this in my sleep" challenges. The mixing of gameplay elements was the most fun part and I would love to see more of that.

Level Design and Flow 6.8/10

Pros

Allows skipping of the cutscene
Nice use of space

Cons

One time confusion of where to go
Loses its neat transitions of beginning to normal transitions pretty fast

Synopsis

The level flow of this game is basically how it needs to be, but not where it could be. One of the best things about great platformers and the hardest to pull off is the entwisted path. This level tries to pull it off at two spots. In the beginning with the water blocking the path and in the middle when you have to travel on the one way paths. The first is successful and feels wonderful but the latter leads to confusion on where I am going and lead to autopilot jumping.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/13051766613_827aab19ce_b.jpg
This picture actually doesn't have anything to do with what I'm talking about. I just thought a picture was needed now.
The best thing in my opinion is this though:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/13051935824_2c67d235a8_b.jpg
Greatly improves replay-ability and is a must-have!
I don't know where to put this so I tag this on in the end here. There are a few grammar mistakes that I wasn't sure if were done on purpose or not. I caught these two:
"Who knew that this friendship would end up?"
"While that, I'll watch you and study your habits and costumes"

Suggestions

It's a bit hard to change the flow of the level now but if there is any way to make the one section I talked about more clear, that would be wonderful. As for future suggestions, it's hard to tell for platformers but just keep taking risks!

Visuals 7.3/10

Pros

The level pops and that is a wonderful thing
Great style

Cons

Water looks ugly at times
Few spots get off of the theme

Synopsis

The visuals of this level really set it apart as a comic/cartoon style and it is wonderful. The only thing that I really can complain about is the water.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7404/13051613265_d0a29f9b28_b.jpg
bleh.
This is more of a personal preference but whenever there is water without a background, I feel like the rest of the scene must use the 3d glitch to match the water. I know this is terrible but it looks weird without it.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7456/13051619215_a672e5f38c_b.jpg
Also this looked odd but I can't really tell you how to fix it.
The cutscene looked nice besides that.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/13051763363_7f3c0879d4_b.jpg
Nice angle
and so did the water
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7324/13051615825_b19707aefe_b.jpg
I was not expecting the visual style!

Suggestions

If there is any way to fix the water in the spots that I said and fix this area up,
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7356/13051768913_e6efc0da92_b.jpg
It looks pretty messy and disregards the theme a bit.
the visuals would look much nicer. Also there are some areas that clash a bit too much for my style but that adds to the pop so it's too hard to point out where I think it's too much.

Overall 7.0/10

A wonderful little level that really stands its own ground. It is extremely brief so don't be expecting to be entertained for quite a long time but the quality of a platformer is definitely there. Plus you don't have to worry about it being short forever as the creator is making a second part!

2014-03-10 04:44:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

I know the level has a second part in development which might be why this section of the review has the comment to add more to the gameplay beyond the simple "I can do this in my sleep" challenges. The mixing of gameplay elements was the most fun part and I would love to see more of that.

About the second part, I'm just waiting the DC Comics Pack to add Wall Jump to my level. The level is already 90% done, I just need to put the WJ tweaker in somethings!

It's a bit hard to change the flow of the level now but if there is any way to make the one section I talked about more clear, that would be wonderful. As for future suggestions, it's hard to tell for platformers but just keep taking risks!

Yeah, it is a bit hard... But thank you, I will keep taking risks! lol

I was expecting you to talk also about the Story, maybe a Topic just about it in the next reviews? Just a suggestion.

A Really wonderful review. One of the most complete reviews someone have aver gave me!

2014-03-10 18:09:00

Author:
cakito123

Posts: 353

Thanks really much for the review of my level!

2014-03-25 20:33:00

Author:
himoks

Posts: 734

I'd appreciate if you'd review my level =]

http://vita.lbp.me/v/hk154

2014-04-05 20:51:00

Author:
IcyFlamez_

Posts: 118

And after a REALLY long time I'll get started on my two-level queue for reviews.

http://i7.api.vita.lbp.me/img/bl/827c5c0c4d17f4a463e8f9cd87ab7e25783b30bb.png
(http://vita.lbp.me/v/cc1p-)Jellyfish Garden (http://vita.lbp.me/v/cc1p-)
By: Cakito123 (http://vita.lbp.me/u/cakito123)

Uniqueness of Concept
#.#/10

Gameplay
#.#/10

Level Design and Flow
#.#/10

Visuals
#.#/10

Overall
#.#/10

2014-05-11 18:58:00

Author:
koltonaugust

Posts: 1382

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