This level puzzles me: I feel like
I’ve seen it all before, then yet again, not!? Mr. Parker tries to bend
the common rules of level designing and succeeds somewhat. First of all, you’ll
have to fight this level with only the few bullets in your gun, and from
then on, your trusty fists! Well perhaps a shotgun is lurking in there
some-where….. At first, it feels weird, not having any mechanical help and
perhaps this would prevent some people from playing it because of the lack
of action. The gameplay is intense and you’ll have to be strategic in your
attacks, because a head to head confrontation does you no good when packs of
demons surround you and bite your head off. And I have to admit that even
though most areas are pretty big -thus making it easy to dodge those IMP
fireballs– some are quite small and “RETREAT!!!” is the only option.
The second thing about this level
is the architecture. Rooms consists mostly of stucco and tanrock walls with
the occasional diversion like some very well designed redrock pillars in the
OK yet under detailed outside areas. With no stairs etc. the level has a
very flat feel to it. Every room is in some way attached only separated by
massive bars or doors that have to be opened. OK, but then again all of this
can easily confuse the player, especially when you are trying to desperately
avoid being torched by an Arch Vile, while navigating the map, which
ultimately has the same overall look. Confusing and frustrating at times.
Ceilings, floors and walls that make up the main rooms are very well
designed with some nice detail and perfectly aligned. A good and innovative
level.