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Community Spotlight Episode 9

Archive: 53 posts





Welcome to our ninth Community Spotlight! For those of you who don't know, Community Spotlight is a way for us to show off, or "Spotlight", our favorite levels made by you! Our Spotlight Crew scours the Level Showcase (http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=40) for awesome levels, and they neatly organize them in a list format to help you find and play them on your own. Each level has comments from each Crew member that selected that level, so you guys can get a good idea of how many Crew members enjoyed it.

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Splat%20Invaders%20II.jpg
Ccubbage/Ccubbage - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9111)
Description:
Journey into the belly of an alien planet!

This level picks up where Splat Invaders Saga left off. Jump forward 14 years and you have been selected, as the ONLY human ever to survive being recycled, to launch a surprise attack on the invaders!

In order to not perform a regurgitation of the prior level, virtually everything is new ideas and gameplay concepts. There are still several "Splat-like" areas, but this level should be considered on it's own merits.


NOTE:

I've been asked many times about the concept of "recycling". Here it is:

The aliens in question are an advanced race which decided "killing" was wrong, and therefore outlawed. However, this posed a problem because as time went on the aliens realized there were times when they really needed or wanted to kill. Therefore, they created a loophole:

It's not REALLY killing if you use what you've killed for a good purpose.

So.... they "recycle" anything they don't feel should be alive anymore. There is ALWAYS a use for the remains...

Have fun! - CcubbageOur Thoughts:
Wow. This is the word I kept repeating as I played through this level. What we have is a sequel that stays true to the Splat saga but still manages to do everything differently with tons of original things to admire. From the very start when the player descends into the darkness to the very end where they teleport back home, the level is chock full of wonderful moments that always keep the player entertained. The lighting here is some of the best I have seen in LBP, especially where the first boss is concerned. The combination is of blue, pink, and yellow lights with a foggy bloom are so beautiful in all that darkness that they may threaten to burn through your retina. There are some very cool homages to older games and the final boss battle is quite possibly the most original I have seen in LBP. What more can I say but: WOW! - OCK
This level's a beauty... like the original it encapsulates everything an OG gamer like me associates with our young gaming culture, and gives it a campy spin to take me even further back in the day... but in this level, we're going back to the future. It's a great spin on alot of what made the 1st so great, very familiar, but entirely unique and feels like it has a bigger budget; much like a true sequel should be. A 2nd entry in this, has made a level that is a mandatory favorite for any LBP player worth their salt into a series I consider requisite playing material - NinjaMicWZ

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Pinball%20Wizard.jpg
wexfordian/wexfordian - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8974)
Description:
PINBALL WIZARD: Straight up pinball table madness with several ways to score big including:
traditional bumpers,
secret areas,
the angelic heart
and even a mystery box (oooooh.....mysterious.....)

PINBALL WIZARD2:
The sequal......Well more a variation on the first as I haven't changed the main mechanics behind it a whole lot. The much more colourful wacky younger brother featuring 45% more wackyness....and even a mystery box (oooooh.....mysterious.....)
- wexfordianOur Thoughts:
This is the best mini-game I have played in LBP, period. wexfordian has created a fully functioning pinball machine with all the expected bells and whistles. Bonus areas, sweet spots, and the requisite 3 lives are all present. The player is completely hidden so as to not ruin the illussion and the fact that everything works so seamlessly really is a staggering achievement. Both levels have a completely different look, the first one having a electro/futuristic vibe while the second goes for a feel good, tie-dye look. Both look great, both are ultra polished, both are must play! - OCK
OCK hit the nail on the head, so instead of just rambling on about my explanation of this level, here's a moment by moment of my experience: Wow, this is pretty cool! (20 minutes later) Is THAT OCK's score?? Maybe I can beat it! (half an hour later) Got pretty high that time.... but Whaale is still ahead of me... just another try... and so on and so on. About 2 hours later, I decided to wrap it up and come back to it later... You're evil, Wexfordian! - CCubbage
These levels are nothing but pure addiction. I( have yet to ever attain the universal dream of having a gaming room full of pinball machines and a pool table... but thanks to wexfordian's genius knack for mechanics, playability, and fun I can just turn on LBP and play two fully functioning table top quarter munchers. I will someday join the two people on top with their 1,000,000 points, even if I have to go blind and change my name to Tommy. - NinjaMicWZMedia (if available):http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=281&pictureid=2255http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=288&pictureid=2309
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Arcade%20Survival.jpg
Hexagohn/Hexgohn - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9156)
Description:
I took some time over the past month and I made 3 different survival challenges, some with multiple difficulties. I love old arcade games and each of these have that similar theme. They are each games I think would make cool arcade games. They are made to be fun, they are made to be difficult, and they are made to be competitive. I hope you will have fun playing them and battling for the high score.

I now list Hard and Easy scores.

There is now a video for each level. They are quite handy if you want to know what each one is like. The video for Dodgitron has some handy tips for those of you who want that competitive edge.

They are all multi-player compatible and they are actually quite fun with multiple players. - HexagohnOur Thoughts:
What we have here are three very cool survival challanges. Dodgitron is an original game that will have you feeling like a super athlete if you time your movements right. Bomb Voyage is all about avoiding being blown to bits while dragging a bomb back and forth. Asteroid attack is an action-packed space shooter with some wonderful visuals. All are fun, all look great and all work wonderfully in multiplayer! - OCK
Hex is not only a master of storytelling and a formidable creator when it comes to full fledged levels, he's officially a certified master of the mini-game. Out of nowhere he dropped off 3 super addictive, fully functional, stylish, and fantastically put together survival challenges following up his old chopper attack game. It's hard to pick a person favorite of the bunch, but they're all entirely unique and different from each other... if you're a party person, you NEED these levels in your regular playlist. Or if you're a solo, score-fanatic who appreciates craftsmanship and wants to have fun, get 'em while they're hot. - NinjaMicWZSs1srYsgZfcNT3jtHcbpeQ3o-eiU8jBHs
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/love.jpg
NinjaMicWZ/NinjaMicWZ - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8920)
Description:
L.ove O.vercomes V.irtually E.verything

This is a short, story-driven level featuring alot of deadpan humor and sly, tongue-in-cheek jokes about the relationship between a man and woman on Valentines day (ie John and Lorena Bobbit, "Dear John" letters etc), and the struggle we all go through of making things work. An average Joe trying to get home to his wife with a box of chocolates, and win her over.

Features:

- a focus on very lite platforming

- a bit of puzzle solving

- heavy implementation of context-sensitive sticker triggers

- an MGS ACT 1 style-shooting gallery in an elevator (which is an homage to the classic power ballad "You Give Love a Bad Name" by Bon Jovi)

- lots of detail and beautiful designs, custom built and stickered down to the last nuance... the box of chocolate even has individual, differently shaped pieces, that you "eat" on the way home

- a fully functional classic, cherry GMC truck with 4 wheel drive, working exhaust pipes, flapping hood, tailgates, and windshield spoilers, and logic operated headlights and tail lights

- 40+ different switch box set ups, triggers, and key arrangements, that are used to initiate effects, mechanics and direct the players progression to prevent backtracking, getting stuck, and skipping

- 2 different endings depending on how you treat a lady

- a very special guest appearance by Mariah Carey

Hope you have fun and get a laugh out of it. - NinjaMicWZOur Thoughts:
LOVE is all we need. For me this is the best Valentine's Day themed level by a country mile. Nothing that Ninja does is cliched and this is no exception. I really loved all the cool gameplay mechanics, particularly eating the chocolates as the level progressed, definitely one of the cooler things I have seen in LBP. As always the level is gorgeous to look at and there is eye-candy galore. The level is light-hearted but that does not mean it should not be taken seriously for what we have here is of the highest quality. There are plenty of complex switch combinations and cool implementation of stickers that are unlike anything else I have seen before. Oh yeah, Did I mention Mariah makes a cameo? - OCK

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/LittleBigApocalypseEp17.jpg
Snowspot/JonMartin - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9241)
Description:
Sackboy limps to the cluster cores, all the while wondering if he should really be trusting the builder. Upon arriving at the cluster cores, the builder tells Sackboy he must pass through multiple "chambers", to activate the emergency override system, 18 chambers in all. As Sackboy stares towards the. entrance of chamber 1, he hears the violent sounds of the machinery... could this really be the end?

I incorporated manga-style drawings(not pictures I've taken), all created in-engine. The storyline continues as well with some exciting new stuff taking place... along with some disturbing stuff happening in the chamber's that you have to make your way through.In this level u make a decision that will effect the next level. - SnowspotOur Thoughts:
After already palying through the first 16 episodes one has to ask themselves "can he really do anything new?". The answer: YES YES and YES. For me this is the best episode yet both from a visual and gameplay perspective. The graphics on this level are simply ridiculous (that's a good thing), particularly with the comic-book style story-boards which are truly some of the most impressive things I have seen in LBP. On the gameplay front we are treated to a bunch of unique chambers with their own set of challenges keeping things fresh from beginning to end. If I could describe the level in two words they would be: instand classic! - OCK
This level is the definition of what is possible in LBP in terms of storytelling, artistry, and pushing the envelope for raw, unfiltered expression. Even just previewing the beta of this level forced me to rant on different websites about how far ahead of it's time LBP is. The graphic novella art work, and layered 3-dimensional scenery is so masterfully done, and the accompanying dialogue and imagery through the level draws you in with an intense grip that forces you to stop and try to analyze and ponder the unfolding of the story with each sentence. The level, as always, is full of great platforming, is a long and gives you a sense of accomplishment and leaves you wanting more. - NinjaMicWZ
There is NOTHING else like this series in LittleBigPlanet. And with this level, Snowspot has injected so many cool mechanics and visual ideas it's perplexing. The backgrounds are colored with original artwork which looks completely professional. I would be surprised if this doesn't inspire many other creators into new art styles in their levels. But this isn't just eye candy! This level retains some of the most incredible and challenging platforming and paintinator sections you've seen! - CCubbageMedia (if available):http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2431/74/76/43100610/n43100610_30947466_8245752.jpg
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2431/74/76/43100610/n43100610_30947468_6237094.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/LittleBigContra.jpg
Jaeyden, NinjaMicWZ, donkey show/Jaeyden, NinjaMicWZ, gevurah22 - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9265&page=4)
Description:
LittleBig Contra is a collaborative project aimed at delivering the definitive Contra experience to LittleBigPlanet. It included members of NeoGAF and a few members of these forums..and ahem..some soon to be new members. Our goal was to recreate each of the 8 stages of Contra from the NES using the tools available to us in the LittleBigPlanet level editor. We all just released these levels and hope to satisfy Contra fans everywhere!
- JaeydenOur Thoughts:
Up, down, up, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, START. The Contra code. There are those of use who spent countless hours on the NES playing this classic game and this collaboration is the ultimate homage, the perfect tribute, the total package. All the levels are very true to the source material but it has all been updated with pretty graphics and infused with the creators individual styles. Those menacing tractors in the Snowfield, the towering spiked-walls in the Hangar, deadly aliens in the Alien's Lair, it's all here and it all looks fantastic. No other remake comes even close, this is as good as it get's. Thanks to all the creators involved for - if only for a few hours - making me feel like a kid again, spending countless hours on that old NES. - OCK
Oh Yeah! LittleBigPlanet just went old school! This series is absolutely mind bogglingly cool! A team consisting of some of the best LittleBigPlanet authors got organized and jammed Contra into our PS3's for all to enjoy. But they also brought their individual styles into their levels which keeps the entire series fresh from beginning to end. NinjaMicWZ leaves you with your hands sweating and your heart pounding, Jaeyden with his ultra-clean cerebral yet intense battle, and gevurah22 with his trademark gorgeous and epic style. Great going, guys! I hope this thing rockets into the stratosphere! - CCubbageo2uWeMZgs6El6BcPwjpDIc2IPd813xpT4
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/capybara.jpg
TJapan/TJapan - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8947)
Description:
Hey guys, i decided to take a break from my Ace McSack escapades, and made a cute and fun level for my wife. It is based around a Japanese stuffed animal called Capybara-san, which is my wife's favorite character. its a pretty simple-looking level, but boy howdy was is a tough one to work out.

So... Here is the premise... Capybara-san needs you to find and save her son, Capybara-chan. now this little tyke is always hungry, so you follow his trail of food to find him, get help from the local bees, and finally get him home to his mom. It's a simple level with no enemies, but theres a few simple puzzles, and a few secrets. I did my best to make the scenery look good, and the prizes are made so that if you dont want them, you dont need to get them.

This level was made solely for my wife, but being as i put so much effort into it, i figured i could let it out into the world. please enjoy it, and if you come across any serious bugs, let me know, so i can work them out. - TJapanOur Thoughts:
This is a level that makes you smile the moment you enter for you are greeted by a big, cute capybara that sends you on a mission to find her child. It is a light-hearted story with a feel good factor and along the way you will be treated to some wonderful eye-candy. A beautifully constructed waterfall, majestic mountains and fish jumping in a stream (complete with splash effect) are just some of the wonderful sights you will see. The gameplay is also something different with the player guiding the Capybara NPC home through some fun platforming/puzzle sections. I had a lot of fun with this and I am sure you will too! - OCKMedia (if available):http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=390&d=1235894195http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=393&d=1235894233
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/SiberiaPt3.jpg
GrantosUK/GruntosUK - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9442)
Description:
After a complete rebuild due to the level failed to load error, and around a month and half, I've finally finished part 3.

After being chased and stalked by the chopper, 0013 finally reaches the SAM site and his chance for revenge. After learning of another step in Dr. Cloth's plan, he must defeat an old russian guard, and make his way to Dr. Cloth's base.

The chopper fight is split into two different battles, one with the paintinator, the other using an AA gun. After this, there is a small miniboss before a short journey gets 13 to his destination. I've also finally been able to make a change in the materials I use, and think this level is a great buildup to finale, coming soon. :-) - GrantosUKOur Thoughts:
The series is nearing it's conclusion and the action has really picked up! Grantos has given us 3 boss battles all of which are very cool and very different from eachother. The fact that this is he third level in the series and Grantos still comes up with so many original ideas is really saying something. The player will be shooting valves into postion with the paintinator, gunning down flying baddies while riding in a monorail and using a massive gun to take down a chopper just to name a few of the levels many delights. As always there is a great overall polish and once again the architecture of the level is truly first class. Really great work for a third straight time. If you have not played these levels yet then what are you waiting for? Go visit Siberia...with love. - OCK
This series is one of the coolest series of levels I've seen in LittleBigPlanet. It has a great James Bond style, and the play is balanced just right. Something I really appreciate is the sense that you are playing through a complex structure, however you always seem to be lead in the right direction. This third installment of the series is no exception, however it contains some GREAT arcade-style moments that blur the lines between between platformer and shoot-em-up. I highly recommend playing this game. And if you have to play through the other 2 to get there... no problem. Great gaming goodness all the way! - CCubbageMedia (if available):http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr285/grantosuk/APhoto_11.jpg
http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr285/grantosuk/APhoto_15.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Shadow%20Moses%20Site%20B.jpg
Thegide/Thegide - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8261)
Description:
Plot: "Following the events of MGS4: Guns of the Patriots, data analysis of GW's wreckage identifies another top secret project in the works on Shadow Moses Island. Snake returns to the Alaskan wasteland to infiltrate the research facility known only as 'Site B' in an attempt to seek out and destroy a new nuclear weapon threat"


Genre: Shooter/Platformer/Tactical Espionage Action (haha...)

Features:
- Intense paintinator action... whether it be enemies or puzzles, your trigger finger will be tested
- Story driven gameplay in an original MGS concept like you've never seen
- Stealth or Run 'N' Gun action, the choice is yours!
- 100% custom MGS-style content including gekko, electrified hallways, deadly laser grids, gurlokovich soldiers, innovative sentries, heavy artillery, security cams, and an all new Metal Gear megaboss that will blow your mind!
- Outdoor/indoor environments
- Single player and multiplayer minigames for a bit of fun to take the pressure off your mission at hand
- A totally sweet cardboard box
- ThegideOur Thoughts:
Do you remember the first time you downloaded the MGS pack for LittleBigPlanet and played the accompanying levels? And you thought 'I wish regular people could do these kinds of levels - MM must be cheating'? Well, guess what? In my opinion, it's just been done BETTER (in my opinion). I absolutely loved this level from beginning to unbelieveable end. The amount of secrets, the feeling of stealth, creative elements such as landmines, a fantastic 2 player area, AND to top it off one of the coolest bosses I've ever seen. Great job! - CCubbage
With the release of the MGS pack we saw a slew of Metal Gear themed levels but very few that did the Metal Gear name justice. Well, this particular level is at the top of it's class and somehow manages to do everything right. From the stealth gameplay to the writing to the materials to the familar metal gear staples, everything is of the highest quality. The construction of the level is as professional as it gets and for me surpasses the work MM did with their Metal Gear levels. To top it all off the level end with the most complex boss I have ever seen. Simply incredible! - OCK
I think Thegide was probably the first creator I'd seen come close to matching Media Molecule's level of quality and manage to emulate their style. There's alot about their levels people don't pick up, even when they nail the visual style and aesthetic polish down. I'm a huge Metal Gear fan, the pack was a godsend, and I think Thegide's given us hands-down the best user-made LBP level. MM had to put Rex in a short level by itself... if they had Thegide on their team, Act 4 and Act 5 would have been able to fit in one level heh. This is the most mechanically animated and physically constructed boss out there, and a supremely playable level full of style, variety and wonderful mechanics. - NinjaMicWZMedia (if available):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3306/3239223775_ccd8fbe374.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3440/3239223429_e818e0fed8.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Crystal%20Cave.jpg
xkappax/xkappax - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9026)
Description:
Hello again, everyone! I am just posting to let you all know that our new level is finally completed! This has been in progress since shortly after Centralia - A Ghost Story, but we had some horrible thermometer issues and some horrible "level falling apart" issues. The original level was scrapped, and I started it over again myself in December. I've been working on and off on this until about a month ago, and then Catiers, my husband, picked it up and added some vehicles and mechanics. This level has had the most effort put into it since Centralia, and countless hours and hard work have been poured into this. This level fell apart 3 times and turned to gas two times, and the thermometer is bursting to the point where we can't add another sticker! - xkappaxOur Thoughts:
The team of xkappax and Catiers are back with another fantastic and FUN level. Some people just have a knack for making highly entertaining content, and this husband/wife team rank right up there with the best. This level is well-made, fun, and is packed with so much great original content you will need to play it multiple times just to take it all in. But the icing on the cake? One of the most fun vehicle rides I've ever taken in LBP! - CCubbage
Larry and Sara's levels always exude a lighthearted escapist relief, and a vibe of fun, tons of expanse and an always unique feel of character and mood. You can't help but chuckle, laugh, and lighten up and enjoy yourself on these rides and all throughout this very expansive level is a fun moment or wow opportunity. How many levels give you a skulldozer-style chase, an awesome glass slide ride, the longest and fastest mine cart ride, AND a whole rest of a level full of platforming goodness... and a plot. Give the level a run with 4 friends, and have a great time. - NinjaMicWZMedia (if available):WTEh-vWhMrghttp://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Pulse.jpg
OCK/OCK - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9402)
Description:
A full month after 218 I am back with my fourth level, Pulse. I created 218 right after The Legion and both levels are epic, story-driven beasts so I wanted to do something a lot "simpler" that features very little speech bubbles (I know, I can hardly believe it myself lol).

I wanted to create a race-type level where the emphasis was on strong visuals, some creative platforming and a whole lot of paintinator action. Jaeyden's Starstruck 3 was an inspiration here. The level is so gorgeous to look at and fun to play so I really wanted to emulate that "feeling" and have the player saying "wow!" the same way I kept saying wow when I played SS3.

The theme here is the pulse line and the symbol is omnipresent. I wanted the the symbol to convey a sense of danger, urgency and intensity and I managed to work those ideas into what little speech there is in the level. The symbol adds a whole new dimension to the visuals as well to create some really cool effects that I have not seen done before. - OCKOur Thoughts:
Beautiful. Brilliant. Electric. Those were the tags that were displayed in 'Pulse' as I was entering the level. It's the first time I've really felt the tags represented what I was about to see. And I can safely say - I've never seen anything quite like it. It's like racing through a neon wonderland of lights and strange creatures. Everything in this world is gorgeous, colorful - and most likely, dangerous. And the final boss.... you might just need to put on some sunglasses before entering the final stage. Once again, OCK - a fantastic, unique, and thought-provoking level! - CCubbage
It would be pretty tough to find a race and obstacle course similar to this, anywhere on LBP. The visual style is totally unique, the visual theme is one of time ticking away along with the timer and really adds to the rush and sense of adrenaline that's maintained throughout the experience. Every step of the way you'll be greeted with a dose of visual extravaganza that only OCK can provide, an entirely unique platforming or action challenge, and a subtle layer of conceptual depth that is simply non-existent in most race levels. - NinjaMicWZMedia (if available):http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3597/3324732602_4573ed327a_m.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3539/3323895109_f66c3b75fe_m.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Animal%20Zoo.jpg
Pitcard/Pitcard - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=p=157351)
Description:
This is my first attempt at an adventure level, but I've made lots of experimental levels as I was learning the ins and outs of create mode.

This took me about a month on and off to make. Its short but sweet with lots to discover!
- PitcardOur Thoughts:
Feed a penguin a stolen hot dog? Sure! Help kick the nicotine habit of a polar bear? Absolutely! How about swing from a monkey's rear quarters? Definitely! All of these great things that you would expect to do in a day at the zoo are here - and rendered in Media Molecule quality! This level is beautiful, and contains some of the best custom content I've seen. There are several adorable puzzles, and it's incredibly well designed. This is a level everyone can enjoy! - CCubbage
Ahhhh, the Zoo. Penguins who are sick of fish for dinner, smoking polar bears with a 5 'oclock shadow, overzealous orangutans trying to escape, this all brings back wonderful memories of childhood trips to the zoo (oh okay, not really)! Pitcard has created a humorous level full of beautifully constructed custom content that will keep the player entertained from beginning to end. The writing is great, the animals are cute, the monkey has a big red ***. What's not to like? - OCKMedia (if available):http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h230/Wiggles2000/LBP%20Central/APhoto_11.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h230/Wiggles2000/LBP%20Central/APhoto_30.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Quetzalcoatl%20Rising.jpg
Boogaloo/stackford - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8918)
Description:
Hey everyone! This is an Aztecky, templey sort of level. There are a few tweaks still to be made - but the nuts and bolt are all in. Please let me know of any difficulties, or any bits I may have missed! - BoolgalooOur Thoughts:
This level is definately not for the faint of heart - it's challenging, has clever but devious puzzles, and will make you feel great accomplishment as you finish! However, it's also beautiful, with a great design and some fantastic artwork! If you love adventure, and fancy yourself a REAL gamer - check this one out. - CCubbage
This level's gorgeous... Boogaloo has a fantastic eye for visuals that make his levels stand out in a crowd and have all the small details that make looks go from great to fantastic. He's got a great sense of design to go with it, puzzles, platforming, and mechanics that are always nicely put together. You'll definitely be looking forward to more when you reach the scoreboard. - NinjaMicWZ

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Sir%20Sackboy%20The%20Accidental%20Hero%20series.j pg
Zwollie/Zwoltopia - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9342)
Description:
Hold on adventurers!! A new saga is about to begin.
The legendary tale of Sir Sackboy has been told for many generations but only now, you can be part of it!!

Synopsis:
King Leon has summoned you, for the kingdom is under attack by a firebreathing dragon!! (how original...)
As expected, it is up to you to save the kingdom and slay yourself that dragon!! Together with his trusted companion, Oswald, our hero sets out to do what he was born for. - ZwollieOur Thoughts:
This series absolutely screams quality from the opening title all the way to the end. The story, humor, content, and platforming are all top notch! How about a trip down into the belly of a dragon? These levels are executed beautifully, and I would highly recommend them for anyone! - CCubbageMedia (if available):http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=324&pictureid=2654
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=322&pictureid=2536http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Lost%20Under%20Glass.jpg
Dobi6/Dobi6 - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8952)
Description:
Ok, my level "Lost Under Glass" is up. I have been Tweeking it for a while, and I am now ready to have you all unleash all that great constructive criticism...

The short of it...
You find that you have taken a wrong turn in someone's level. You don't know happened, but you are trapped in some cold dark place.

It is a medium length platformer. I left the paintinator home on this one - Dobi6Our Thoughts:
Dobi6 is a HIGHLY underrated creator with an equally understated level description. This level is a clean, cool looking, challenging, and well-thought-out experience. Work your way through an electric labyrinth using precise jumping, swinging, grabbing, and flying. And just when you think you've got it, he turns the level upside down and sideways! Up for a challenge? Check this one out! - CCubbage
I am a big fan of originality and this level has plenty of moments that are different from any other level I have played. There is an overall complexity to everything which I found to be quite impressive. Grab one thing and it activates another, which activates another, which activates another. I think dobi may have created a new genre called "chain-reaction platforming". The level poses a nice challenge and guarantees you will be on your toes from beginning to end. When your reflexes kick in at just the right moments you really do get a sense of a achievement. Really great work, everyone should check it out. - OCKMedia (if available):http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k138/scottvphoto/LUG02.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k138/scottvphoto/LUG03.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Shadow%20of%20the%20Colossus%20REBORN.jpg
Talmasca/Talmasca - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8882)
Description:
this is a shadow of the colossus themed level i have been working on for about 2 weeks

it is based roughly around the story of the game but adapted slightly to cater to lbp's style!

it contains two colossi ( the turtle and the eel ) plus a fully functional agro, a daring climb to the top of the main temple and a highly detailed environment ( more so than silent hill 2 REBORN pt 2 )

it also contains several puzzles which are placed to increase ur score and rewards, plus a skipping system if u wish to skip the first colossus if u fail fighting the second one - TalmascaOur Thoughts:
I'm a BIG fan of SOTC. I've played 2 other levels claiming to do the LittleBigPlanet interpretation justice. So far, I've been disappointed. How does this level fare? Beautifully! There's finally a level where I can get my Colossus fix. The temple, the climbing, and taking down those gigantic creatures - perfectly executed, but with adjustments that fit it nicely into the LBP universe (the horse ride is VERY cool, but doesn't take 10 minutes to complete)! Fantastic job - I loved every minute of it! - CCubbage
I'm also a huge SotC fan, and it's one of my all time favorites. I think with the limitations of a single LBP level, talmasca has given us as much nostalgia as we could possibly ask for... he's a master of homage and recreation, and does the saga much justice here with so much beauty and subtle detail that is always overlooked in past attempts. It's not just about green, castle, and a big "thing" - it's about subtle elegance, like peering off into the horizon to see the sunset. Using your mind to find and conquer certain beasts, and the high-adrenaline thrill of hanging on to something that could crush you just by flexing it's muscles... and reunite with a loved one at all costs. - NinjaMicWZ

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Polar%20Peak%20Series.jpg
Tomasoares/Tomasoares - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9288)
Description:
Levels in an oldschool vein, sonic visual like. Finally finished Polar Peak - Act 2! The style is similar to the first act, with the multiple ways and the Polar Bears as your enemies. There's some new things, like enemies, mechanism and a boss in the end! - TomasoaresOur Thoughts:
I love these levels. They are polished, have some fantastic custom content, contain multiple paths, plus contain some really creative story ideas. But the thing I truly enjoyed most was the fantastic platforming. Instead of the traditional jump and climb stairs gameplay, Tomasoares has thrown in some great contraptions which throw you from floor to floor or glide you to new areas - thus keeping the energy and fun flowing throughout. For some good looking, lighthearted fun - check out these levels! - CCubbageMedia (if available):http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y156/saitou160190/pp2-1.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y156/saitou160190/UmaFoto_3.jpg
http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/../images/spotlight/headers/Chroma%20Stone%20Chronicles%20Part%202%20-%20Pyrra%27s%20Gem.jpgMorgana25/Morgana25 - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=9055)
Description:
This is a "red" level. Very firey. The end boss isn't exactly what I was going for but it's more challenging than the first one. There's a trick to avoiding the fire but you don't need to know it to defeat him. The lighting was the most fun on this level. Also really enjoyed setting up the volcano. - Morgana25Our Thoughts:
Beautiful. I think everyone can appreciate these levels. The first thought I had as I began traversing Morgana25's little world was - wow! This is like stepping through a childrens fairy tale book. In fact, while playing these levels my 7-year-old son sat next to me mesmerized (I wouldn't let him play.... I was having too much fun... is that wrong?) These levels are not hard - they don't need to be. They tell a beautiful story, and contain fantastic visuals and characters. So sit back, relaxe, and enjoy these 2 gems! - CCubbage
Enter a world of fantasy and wonder where for each step the player takes there is something to dazzle the eye. The custom content is gorgeous, the lighting is superb, the experience is something special. This is one of those levels where the player feels like they are in some wonderful fairytale and for those precious minutes of playtime all your worries just melt away. Truly a work of art, stop reading this and go visit the wonderful world Morgana has created where fairy's, dragons and many other things await you! - OCKMedia (if available):_v0Nu-ImLOkInactive Creators

These users, while great creators, did not manage to hit the 15% activity rating required to earn a full spotlight. Be sure to make time to try these levels, as they are still fantastic. To the authors in this section: be more involved on the site and you'll find yourself up above with the rest of the active users!
Little LOST - Frizby/Frizby - Thread (https://lbpcentral.lbp-hub.com/index.php?t=t=8435)		2009-03-08 04:18:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

Wow, this appeared just after refreshing my page. These levels are all great! But I wish my threads were more active, so I could get on here. Maybe next time!2009-03-08 04:29:00

Author:
Kog
Posts: 2358

Hopefully my F.H.Q. 2 level will be on here when its relesed and finished2009-03-08 04:43:00

Author:
Flare Skull
Posts: 216

seems to be alot of levels thistime around, I'm especially loking forward to the contra series.2009-03-08 06:45:00

Author:
sjbluedog24
Posts: 80

It's hard to keep an activity rating up when people aren't participating in F4F2009-03-08 06:55:00

Author:
ApellesJr
Posts: 282

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

I'm so happy the Chroma Stone levels are being so well received.

I want to especially thank Tomasoares, Cog, dkjestrup, xkappax, wexfordian, CCubbage, & Ock for the great feedback and suggestions on the levels.

It means a great deal to me to have such a great creators share their experience, knowledge and creative genius with those of us trying to improve our level making skills.

I've played many of the levels in this showcase too and it's a fantastic list!		2009-03-08 06:56:00

Author:
Morgana25
Posts: 5983

Congrats to all who made it, you all deserve it. There are some really great levels here and I hope people take the time over the weekend to check them all out. Let's keep the high quality stuff coming!



It's hard to keep an activity rating up when people aren't participating in F4F

Your activity has nothing to do with F4F. Your activity is based on how much you post per day vs the average posts per day of all members. Try posting things on other parts of the forums and being more a part of the community in general to bring your activity up.		2009-03-08 07:13:00

Author:
OCK
Posts: 1536

Your activity has nothing to do with F4F. Your activity is based on how much you post per day vs the average posts per day of all members. Try posting things on other parts of the forums and being more a part of the community in general to bring your activity up.
OCK's got it nailed. Also, ApellesJr, I just want to add that your activity percentage is high enough to earn a full spotlight, if you were to be spotlighted. The cutoff is 15%; you're at 19% at the moment.		2009-03-08 07:28:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

I've been featured??

Thank you so much guys!! I feel humbled....and unbelievably happy!!
Wasn't expecting this judging by the activity on my thread.
Gives me that much needed boost to finish my 3rd chapter.

I've played most of the other levels featured here (and will play the other ones as soon as I get a chance) and they are all pretty amazing.
Really glad The Chroma Stone Chronicles got showcased. I adore those levels! Short but very, very sweet.

Congratulations to all the other creators showcased here and thanks again guys!!		2009-03-08 08:42:00

Author:
Zwollie
Posts: 2173

All the levels are brilliant again
Everyine inivolved in choosing them seem to have very good eyes. I especially liked hungry, hungry capybara - such a cute looking level.		2009-03-08 09:36:00

Author:
Coxy224
Posts: 2645

Thanks for the spotlight again guys. Thats all three parts now included. Its greatly appreciated once again.

The level has been slow to get going, not many comments left in game or in my F4F thread. I was starting to think I'd made a bad entry to the series This has spurned me on to finish the part 4 off.

And the plays have increased loads over night

Congrats to everyone else that has made the cut, I've played some of these are they are fantastic.

Thanks again

Grant		2009-03-08 10:21:00

Author:
GruntosUK
Posts: 1754

Wow. That's a lot of levels to play. I better write all the names down on paper and play these awesome-looking levels!2009-03-08 13:08:00

Author:
lk9988
Posts: 1077

Thanks guys, for the spotlight! Makes me really happy! ^_^ ...

I've actually played most of the levels in this spotlight and I'm very happy to see that a lot of these are getting the recognition that they deserve!

keep up the good work! ^_^		2009-03-08 14:05:00

Author:
xkappax
Posts: 2569

Thanks everyone, thanks to this site! I never expected this to happen

Oh and thanks OCK, I know we had some disagreements but I really appreciate your comments.. and it is no suprise that Pulse is up there too

And Congrats on CCubbage on SPlat 2 making it on there!!

Actually.. CONGRATS TO EVERYONE!!!!!

*runs away cheering*		2009-03-08 15:07:00

Author:
Snowspot
Posts: 265

Congratulations, everyone! I had a fantastic time playing through them!2009-03-08 15:08:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Absolutely fantastic levels, well done people!2009-03-08 16:05:00

Author:
olit123
Posts: 1341

Congrats & well done to all of those who made the list for Episode 9, there a quite a few on there I haven't had a chance to play yet and I'm looking forward to checking them out.

Cheers QuozL		2009-03-08 16:24:00

Author:
QuozL
Posts: 921

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU

I was hoping hoping that I would make it, but with the F4F seeming a bit slow, I was figuring I was going to get passed over...

I love playing all your levels, and am going to continue to work on giving people good feedback. Everyone's levels are the best inspiration I could ever hope for.		2009-03-08 16:58:00

Author:
dobi6
Posts: 359

For a split second there I thought that someone had used the same title as me, lol.

I'm utterly gobsmacked - I've played all but two of those levels (feedback on way), and I'm seriously humbled to be in such classy company.

Thanks to everybody that gave me helpful advice on how to improve it!

P.S. Can I change my F4F thread so it says 'Spotlighted!!!' (!!!)		2009-03-08 17:03:00

Author:
Boogaloo
Posts: 254

P.S. Can I change my F4F thread so it says 'Spotlighted!!!' (!!!)
Sure, it'll probably get you a few more F4Fs.		2009-03-08 18:18:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729

Wowzerz.... I just came on this thread to possibly find out the requirements to get "Spotlighted" and also check out the awesome levels up here.... Then I just saw Animal Zoo and was like OHMAWWGAWWD.

I guess the only requirement is to do your best, and give the community something fresh and exciting. I'll have to go through the ones I haven't played, cause most of the best LBP levels ever have spawned from Central's creators!

Cheers a million.		2009-03-08 18:40:00

Author:
Pitcard
Posts: 779

OCK's got it nailed. Also, ApellesJr, I just want to add that your activity percentage is high enough to earn a full spotlight, if you were to be spotlighted. The cutoff is 15%; you're at 19% at the moment.

Oh yeah, I knew mine was high enough. I wasn't expecting a spotlight cause I haven't made anything worth it yet.

Now I know how it works though, thanks OCK.		2009-03-08 18:51:00

Author:
ApellesJr
Posts: 282

Oh boy, another bunch of awesome looking levels I have to try... will it ever end? (not that I really want it to... )2009-03-08 20:23:00

Author:
sny
Posts: 144

I've played some of these levels before! I actually just played The Crystal Cave in Autumn today, and it's beautiful! Congrats to all the creators who worked hard for this 2009-03-08 22:34:00

Author:
Bumblebee__
Posts: 65

woohoo my second spotlight!! thanks to the people who noticed my level ( ccubaage and ninjamcwiz i thinks, thanks! ) couldnt have done it without my testers either ( samosuke and zhalk ) 2009-03-09 01:02:00

Author:
talmasca
Posts: 196

Bumblebee, thank you for the kind words! ^_^2009-03-09 03:22:00

Author:
xkappax
Posts: 2569

Hi guys and Gals, Thanks for the spotlight

And thanks especially to everybody who provided me with some great feedback. You guys rock.

Man, the quality of levels in this thing just keeps rising!		2009-03-09 10:02:00

Author:
wexfordian
Posts: 1904

Congratulations to all the creators of this spotlights...
And thank you for these great level to play and enjoy! 		2009-03-09 10:11:00

Author:
Takelow
Posts: 1355

As great as some of the levels in these lists are, I'm beginning to think the Community Spotlight is slightly biased. I've noticed how some creators ALWAYS make it here despite their levels having scores of only 3/5 stars, and only a few hearts out of a thousand plus plays, just because the said creators are "popular" or "important" LBPC posters. And yet there are those creators out there whose levels get 4/5 stars and a greater number of hearts, but they rarely, or even worse, never make it here.

Those levels got good scores and lots of hearts for a reason. Because they're good levels, because the creators spent a LOT of time and effort on them, and because players LIKE them. It's just sad that these levels often get overlooked.

I think the judges should work a little harder to make these lists fairer. Let's give those "other" creators the credit they deserve.		2009-03-09 16:49:00

Author:
Jubal1982
Posts: 2

I can personally say that this isn't a true statement. I play through as many levels as I possibly can, and gravitate more towards creators that are less known - and I absolutely guarantee you the other members on this site will stick up for me on that (this looks like its your first post, so I'm not sure you are up on the community too much at this point).

In fact I knew NOTHING about the vast majority of creators who's levels I had a hand in Spotlighting.


I've noticed how some creators ALWAYS make it here despite their levels having scores of only 3/5 stars, and only a few hearts out of a thousand plus plays, just because the said creators are "popular" or "important" LBPC posters

Looking at stars as a determiner of quality is a problem because LBP players tend to gravitate towards easier levels or levels with specific themes. This forum is able to overlook this and give a much more objective viewpoint.

As for specific creators making it into the spotlight again and again - some authors keep putting out quality levels - which means they end up here again and again.


Those levels got good scores and lots of hearts for a reason. Because they're good levels, because the creators spent a LOT of time and effort on them, and because players LIKE them. It's just sad that these levels often get overlooked

To an extent that's true. There are some levels which get great star and heart ratios which lack polish, also. We have specific standards that we need to adhere to which is beyond the general opinion standards. Also, keep in mind, this is not an "all levels in LBP list" - this is a list of community creators. So, we only look at levels on our own showcase. Now, if you feel that we've missed a crucial level you can certainly send me a message suggesting a level in the showcase and I'll look at it. There are a LOT of levels that fly through here and keeping up can be daunting from time to time.


I think the judges should work a little harder to make these lists fairer. Let's give those "other" creators the credit they deserve

The process I go through - I build a list each night of levels I'm going to look at. Generally, they are unknown levels from authors many times I have not heard of. I play those first. Then, I play the few that may have come from authors I know. I make a list of the ones I had the most fun in objectively.

If I find issues that could prevent showcasing a level (such as material that isn't trimmed so it looks sloppy), I do a quick review of their level on their thread to point out these issues. I may check back periodically to see if the quality has been raised.		2009-03-09 17:13:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

It's indeed not true that they only spotlight the "Cool LBPC members". It is true though that they have alot of spotlights, but that's because they make really good levels! If you just look into the older spotlights you will also see loads of "unknown" authors making amazing levels. Also the "Inactive Users" section, mostly consists of "unknown authors" but they are definately not worse levels than the "known" ones.2009-03-09 17:21:00

Author:
ThommyTheThird
Posts: 440

Wow, I didn't expect to see my levels here! O.o Thanks guys!
I'm really grateful to know you liked them!

About the other ones, I played some of them and they are really good! "Chroma Stone Chronicles", "Shadow of the colossus REBORN", "Lost Under Glass", "The Crystal Cave in Autumn", "Hungry, Hungry, Capybara" and "LBContra". Each one have his own style and characteristics, but are superb in what they are! The others I haven't played, I will play now! 		2009-03-09 17:35:00

Author:
Unknown User

Another great Spotlight and another great list of levels to go play! Thanks to everyone who made this happen. I've played alot of these levels and they really deserve this attention. And I'm off to go play afew of these that I messed. Awesome, awesome job to you all!2009-03-09 21:23:00

Author:
Jaeyden
Posts: 564

All we do is play levels in the showcase forum and pick levels we really liked out of the one's we got a chance to play. There's nothing more to it.

Congratulations to everyone, to all the new members creating great stuff, and to the old regulars who are continually improving on their work. You're the reason I can't get enough of LBP.		2009-03-09 22:53:00

Author:
Unknown User

All we do is play levels in the showcase forum and pick levels we really liked out of the one's we got a chance to play. There's nothing more to it.

Congratulations to everyone, to all the new members creating great stuff, and to the old regulars who are continually improving on their work. You're the reason I can't get enough of LBP.

i just gotta give applause to the moderators, admin etc on this website, they always defuse a situation with the most insane politeness skills ^_^ and are helpful, clapity clap doods 		2009-03-10 01:34:00

Author:
talmasca
Posts: 196

All we do is play levels in the showcase forum and pick levels we really liked out of the one's we got a chance to play. There's nothing more to it.

Congratulations to everyone, to all the new members creating great stuff, and to the old regulars who are continually improving on their work. You're the reason I can't get enough of LBP.
True... but I was just making the point (in my incredibly over-wordy style) that I don't give preference. It's just that some creators are kick-butt at making levels... so they get more spotlights.

You say tomato, I say a lot more
2009-03-10 02:59:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

congrats to those who got spotlighted... i hope my next project will be a part of it too, since now ive gotten enough activity. 2009-03-10 07:04:00

Author:
graygoose
Posts: 371

Thats pretty tight, honestly would not have guessed my survival challenges would have made it on here. All of the levels featured that I have played are excellent. Good work guys, I notice a lot more series of levels and things like that and they are all great.

Its actually an interesting point that someone brought up about the low heart to play ratios. I have a pretty bad ratio on most these survival challenges. You can only heart a level once but you can play it many times. Thats my excuse anyway lol		2009-03-10 16:11:00

Author:
Hexagohn
Posts: 335

Thats pretty tight, honestly would not have guessed my survival challenges would have made it on here. All of the levels featured that I have played are excellent. Good work guys, I notice a lot more series of levels and things like that and they are all great.

Its actually an interesting point that someone brought up about the low heart to play ratios. I have a pretty bad ratio on most these survival challenges. You can only heart a level once but you can play it many times. Thats my excuse anyway lol
It's true. I played all three of yours at LEAST 4 times each. These kinds of addictive little quick games get DECIMATED in the heart to play ratio.		2009-03-10 16:24:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

You should've seen Killian's survival challenge.. almost 4000 plays and only 140 hearts... And not because it sucks, it's one of the best survival challenges ever made! I just think it's replayed insanely much.2009-03-10 17:08:00

Author:
ThommyTheThird
Posts: 440

I just think it's replayed insanely much.

Yes, i agree.
I just don't understand why Mm did not limit the play count: 1 count by player and not 1 count by play...		2009-03-10 20:06:00

Author:
Takelow
Posts: 1355

well congratulations to everyone on the list... have not even been on LBP since the patch came out... I have been busy with R2, BP, KZ2, and soon to be UT3, but if i do get a level up that makes it on to the list it will be a miracle for sure.

Cheers!		2009-03-11 05:42:00

Author:
RAINFIRE
Posts: 1101

Looking at stars as a determiner of quality is a problem because LBP players tend to gravitate towards easier levels or levels with specific themes. This forum is able to overlook this and give a much more objective viewpoint.

You make it sound like LBP players, in general, do not know how to properly rate a level. That attitude is quite elitist.

There have been several rather difficult games that have gotten many stars. And some easy ones that have gotten less. In general, people give lots of hearts to those levels they think deserve it, regardless of how difficult it is.

Some of the 3-star levels that have made it to the spotlight aren't that difficult at all. In fact, most of the levels on this list AREN'T very difficult. But there are levels in the forum that get 4 stars, and are quite challenging, and yet they don't end up in the spotlight.



There are some levels which get great star and heart ratios which lack polish, also. We have specific standards that we need to adhere to which is beyond the general opinion standards.

Polish? Beyond the general opinion standards?

So you are saying a 4-star level may not get to the spotlight because it lacks "polish", because it does not meet LBPC's standards. And you are saying the 3-star levels that DID make it here HAVE that polish, and ARE beyond general standards.

If you look carefully and objectively at the threads of these spotlighted 3-star levels in the Level Showcase, you will see that many people are actually NOT blind to the fact that these levels lack polish. They have bugs. Design flaws. Difficulty to a degree that is neither fun nor appropriate. Some are boring, some are ugly. These so-called spotlighted levels got 3 stars for a reason, and the LBPC community knows this. If you haven't noticed, people here are rather vocal about the things they don't like about the level.

And yet, for some reason, these it-was-good-but-could-have-been-better levels made it here, as if they belong to the cream of the crop.

Look at the threads of some of the 4-star levels that didn't make it here. From the LBPC people's feedback, it is obvious, from their praise, WHY those levels got a 4. And yet these levels never made it here, because their creators are obscure.



It's true. I played all three of yours at LEAST 4 times each. These kinds of addictive little quick games get DECIMATED in the heart to play ratio.

Yes. I believe most of us are aware that some levels get that many, many plays, thereby "decimating" the heart to play ratio. But in the example you gave, which was Hexagohn's survival challenge levels... well, they're SURVIVAL challenges. People play survival challenges MANY MORE times than a full-length level, because they are shorter, take less time and effort to play, and because of their very nature being survival challenge levels. Survival challenges are MEANT to be played LOTS of times. And if they're really good survival challenges, expect people to play them again and again and again.

But we're not talking about survival challenges here. We're talking about a 3-star, full-length level. Would anyone play a mediocre, 3-star level ten times? Would any person be willing to suffer through bugs, frustrating or boring obstacles, impassable areas ten times? I think not.



If I find issues that could prevent showcasing a level (such as material that isn't trimmed so it looks sloppy), I do a quick review of their level on their thread to point out these issues. I may check back periodically to see if the quality has been raised.

Again, we go back to the spotlighted 3-star levels. Feedback and criticism from the community in their threads are a testament to their lack of "trim". And yet THAT didn't prevent the levels from being showcased.

What's even more strange is how some of these levels make it to the spotlight even when they've only been posted less than four to five days prior to the spotlight. With so much criticism about their levels, I doubt the creators would have been able to fix their problems in time to meet the standards required for them to be considered good enough to be spotlighted.

And yet, they still get spotlighted.


The community spotlight has MANY great levels. This, I do not deny. Many of the creators on this list ARE deserving of this honor.

But not all creators, even the good ones, ALWAYS make great levels. Some of them make duds. When a popular, "important" creator makes a level that the community thinks deserves only 3 stars, let's be fair. Let's give the honor to the other, less popular creators, those who got 4 stars or higher, and feature THEIR works instead.

Just because an important creator manages to make one or two 4-star levels does not mean his three or four 3-star levels deserve to be showcased. And just because he IS important, doesn't mean he deserves to be showcased again and again and again, spotlight after spotlight, regardless of how the community thinks about and rates his level.		2009-03-14 19:52:00

Author:
Jubal1982
Posts: 2

You know, based on your replies to my reasoning, I get the feeling that you're an incredibly argumentative person who is going to be negative whatever I say - if you look at my original post I play mostly new creators. Most of the levels I personally spotlighted were NOT creators that had previous spotlights. And of the ones I did spotlight who were popular creators, it was because I liked their level - and it was well designed and clean.

If you think I'm elitist you are certainly free to think so, however its completely against my personality and I doubt ANY member of this website will agree with you. In fact, I tend to root for the underdog. I give help to everyone that needs it, and spend quite a bit of time private messaging new creators trying to help them reach the spotlight.

On the subject of the ratings in LittleBigPlanet, I have experimented with publishing the same level in different time zones on different days and have ended up with average 2 star, 3 star, 4 star, AND 5 star. There are probably 10s of thousands of young LBP players under 10 years old (including my son) who will jump in, not do very well, leave, and rate 1 star. If you have a fairly new level these kinds of ratings can decimate a level, so I try to ignore ratings when I play a level so I can make up my own mind.

You know, we have a spotlight crew who are spending their own time trying to hunt through tons of levels every month and find the best so they can be spotlighted and everyone can have fun. I would appreciate it if you wouldn't ruin peoples fun by being negative on everything we do publicly in the spotlight - it's discouraging and unnecessary. I'm always available for a private message if you want to chew me out or suggest a level that you think is good that I missed.		2009-03-14 21:28:00

Author:
CCubbage
Posts: 4430

Well said CCubage 2009-03-14 22:04:00

Author:
olit123
Posts: 1341

My new level I'm working on gets so detailed I have no choice but continuing building on a second one...which is fine. Hope to make it some other time. I'm going to make my first boss fight ever and maybe a minigame to go with it. But maaaan it takes time to build stuff!2009-03-15 01:28:00

Author:
BasketSnake
Posts: 2391

Ok Jubal... how should levels be picked for the spotlight?

"This level has 5 stars... spotlight it"

"This level has 3 stars... don't spotlight it"

???

I think -

"Man... this level's awesome!"

and

"Eh... this level's not that great"

- are better ways to decide. It's all based on subjective reasoning either way, and personally, I'd esteem and vocalize my own subjective reasoning, but I would never speak on someone else's behalf and let their opinions act as mine. That is a foolish way to be, in life and in LBP.

If we used your reasoning, then honestly, I wouldn't ever spotlight a community level that isn't featured on the Highest Rated pages of the LBP server. Obviously, it must not be that great if everyone doesn't love it... right? ha

Gaming journalists don't review games based on what other people think of the game and what they will like... they write what they think, and give you a bullet point description of the contents of the game and it's up to you to decide if you think that sounds good and either agree or disagree with the statements.

My favorite video games are not games that sold the most, or were rated the highest... they're games that I love, and some of them are rated badly, some are rated high, some are supremely popular and some are almost completely unknown.

Nobody picks levels based on who made it. I may recognize your name, and check out your level thinking "ah, a new level... this should be good" - in all actuality, if I do recognize your name, it means you have a standard set, and expectations to meet or surpass from your previous work... which will make my disposition more critical, and more than likely prone to being disappointed. The more hype something has, the less chance it has to meet that subjective bar, and if it does then it's obviously far better than the previous work. Conversely, if I don't recognize your name, I will go into it without any expectations or prior point of reference, leaving me less critical and much easier to impress by a surprisingly good level.

You're basically arguing that one form of subjective reasoning is better than another form of subjective reasoning. Neither is objective or factual. Our reviewing and accolades are more akin to the BAFTA video game awards where the merits of artistry, technical achievements, and play value are the factors for deciding winners. This is not Spike TV where GTA and Halo will win Game of the Year, and LBP won't even be on the list.

We're regular people, who play LBP on an independent forum and do these write ups just because we like(d) to play and review levels. Luckily I'm not writing on the next one to be on the receiving end of insecurities and resent again, and get bombarded with baseless and illogical accusations, slights against my integrity, and self centered vies for attention. It really takes all the fun out of things.		2009-03-15 06:39:00

Author:
Unknown User

I was directed to this site by a link on the Mm website, and I came here initially (like a lot of people here I imagine) to find a list of great levels to play - and obviously went to the Community Spotlight threads first of all (I went through all of them).

I'm only posting this to redress the balance against a vocal minority, btw.

I've seen absolutely no sign whatsoever of any bias, and find the assertion that those who've taken the (considerable) time to play the levels and comment on them are operating under some kind of deceptive agenda bizarre in the extreme.

Regarding anyone who chooses to look past the flawed rating system and apply their own categories of judgment as elitist is as simple minded as it is inaccurate, and the people that have taken the time to play, review and put up a coherent list of levels they think the community might enjoy don't deserve glib accusations casually thrown their way.		2009-03-16 13:36:00

Author:
Boogaloo
Posts: 254

I was directed to this site by a link on the Mm website, and I came here initially (like a lot of people here I imagine) to find a list of great levels to play - and obviously went to the Community Spotlight threads first of all (I went through all of them).

I'm only posting this to redress the balance against a vocal minority, btw.

I've seen absolutely no sign whatsoever of any bias, and find the assertion that those who've taken the (considerable) time to play the levels and comment on them are operating under some kind of deceptive agenda bizarre in the extreme.

Regarding anyone who chooses to look past the flawed rating system and apply their own categories of judgment as elitist is as simple minded as it is inaccurate, and the people that have taken the time to play, review and put up a coherent list of levels they think the community might enjoy don't deserve glib accusations casually thrown their way.

Well said 		2009-03-16 14:02:00

Author:
GruntosUK
Posts: 1754

Thanks for the footnote on Little LOST guys. I truly appreciate the gesture. I only wish I had more time to post between work/family commitments...but I'm trying.

If I could get on this site at work, I'd be much higher. As it is, I'm doing good to get in 5-6 F4F posts/week.		2009-03-19 20:47:00

Author:
frizby
Posts: 89

You know, based on your replies to my reasoning, I get the feeling that you're an incredibly argumentative person who is going to be negative whatever I say...

You know, while I was reading Jubal1982's post, I was thinking the very same thing. And while I don't want to run off a new member (whose opinions are certainly just as welcome here as anyone's), I was also thinking, "Wow, this is unusual for LBPC."

I personally have never been a big fan of blogging and forum sites because so many (the vast majority that I have visited and/or participated in) seem to gravitate towards argumentative, even spiteful rants that almost always end up in a lose-lose, agree-to-disagree stand off. And while I can hold my own in a debate, I don't enjoy it and it's not what I come here for.

And this is precisely what I love most about LBPC. The community here is exactly that: a community, and a very open community at that... always willing to accept new blood into the fold. The sense of fellowship and service found here is unsurpassed (IMHO) - without regard to subject matter - anywhere about the internet (cuz, yeah... I've been to the entire internet, and I do know. really. it's true).

And to the spotlight crew and review leagues and everyone else here who spends so much of their personal, free time playing other's levels and helping creators become better, I thank you all. Hat's off to you! :hero:

And to Jubal1982... please don't go away. Just realize that your in-the-face approach will not be received well here. (just sayin&apos		2009-03-21 17:16:00

Author:
v0rtex
Posts: 1878

I totally agree with ya!
And thanks for mentioning the Review League - everyone in it (including me ) are great 		2009-03-21 18:22:00

Author:
Coxy224
Posts: 2645

Locked and archived. 2009-05-02 04:58:00

Author:
ConfusedCartman
Posts: 3729


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