Nostalgia is a messy map. The inconclusive questing given throughout it is enough to ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable, but the overall quality recoils because of the unsteady mechanics layered throughout the map. It is also yet another role-playing style adventure, just like a map I played recently, named Boulefield. It wasn't quite able to reach the high standards that that map set, but it sure is on the right path. What the map maker must really do is clean the adventure up. It'll have a much better chance of fairing against Boulefield and other RPG maps out there when the task is completed. I say this because through a number of separate aspects of the adventure I noted some real potential. I hope it's exploited.
The story was where a large mass of the mess was concentrated. It's a mainly linear storyline with exploration and combat playing major roles, and comedy laced throughout. The comedy is refreshing at first, in comparison with the many serious role-playing maps and games out there, but it soon grows tiresome, even though it dies down. The story itself is also pretty predictable, and despite being original, is somewhat traditional and redundant. It doesn't help that the notes often lack proper spelling and occasionally even grammar. And while this is all supposed to play into the comedy role of the map, it distracts the player from the main quest and the three side quests far too much. So much so, that in fact I actually didn't care about most of the story by the end of the adventure. But put aside the comedy, and the story is much sturdier. The somewhat silly tale being told is more intruiging, and at least two of its three side quests are enough to hold your attention without distracting you from the main quest too much. I won't go so far as to say this is the worst plot execution I've seen in a map, but it certainly isn't the best.
But putting aside the story, it is far easier to see where the map strives. One particular aspect it does fairly well in is its architecture. Builds are often no more than mediocre, but occasionally there will be a structure that makes you go "Wow." The map maker isn't too new to the concept of a map and its components, and it is very clear that those buildings were just as awesome as intended. There weren't any structures that were terrible or even remotely bad, as even the most mediocre of builds had their strengths and diversities. And those that made me say "Wow" were breathtaking. The limits of Minecraft were sometimes even pushed with what I witnessed, and I mean that as a huge compliment. It's needless to say that the map maker is no stranger to construction.
The atmosphere of a map is always a tricky aspect to analyse because it so heavily relies on gameplay, story, builds, and creativity, but it becomes easier when you see how seamless those aspects are integrated into one another. The story is suitable for the builds provided, and the gameplay is creative, even while not in its prime. I can't say too much on the atmosphere's behalf, save for that it did what it had to.
Gameplay was a final aspect of the map I felt was fairly strong. Side quests felt a little forced, often considering where they were precisely placed, and some didn't make much sense, but all provided their moments and were worthwhile. But I must also present a criticism I have here. The questing is rough around the edges. Often it overpowers the exploration by telling you exactly what to do and where to go. And while linear gameplay can be decent, it is not nearly as fun as Boulefield's openworld style questing where you had to explore small, realistically diverse areas in order to advance the story. For this reason I say that Nostalgia is weaker than Boulefield, but like I said previously, it could be improved to come closer to that high standard.
However, when it came to exploration, the map was top notch. Even though exploration often felt needless and sometimes convoluted when integrated with the story, other times it was supremely superb, perhaps even stronger than Boulefield's. The story provided motivation, the builds provided astronomical support, and the well thought-out atmosphere was touching. There was so much reason to want to explore and so many options that sometimes it even felt like a treasure hunt, what with the player being the hunter hoping to reap the rewards of exploration. I won't go into further detail on the matter, but say that if the map excells for one reason, it's this.
As I stated long ago, Nostalgia has potential. I dearly hope I've helped the map maker realise this and that he fixes the map accordingly. I feel compelled to compare it to Boulefield because it was clearly striving for a different adventure but similar goal: to create the best RPG Minecraft experience ever. I feel that only Boulefield did this, but I have yet to give up hope for Nostalgia. There's lots to improve, and little time before more role-playing styled maps begin to appear, so it's crucial that Nostalgia: A Simple Quest fixes its problems now rather than later.
Bugs/Tips:
-comedy. Tone it down or remove it entirely. It is unstable and close to annoying by the end of the adventure.
-spelling. Hate to be a grammar Nazi, but you need to fix that too.
-implement the side quests at more appropriate times during the few exploration sequences, not during linear questing.
-make the side quests somewhat related to the main story so that they are less distracting.
CreeperEye is honestly a fairly strong map. Its goal is clear: to provide the player with a varied, enjoyable puzzler that is easy enough to keep you engaged but yet not too easy as to make it seem pointless. In my eyes, CreeperEye achieved that, but not too much else. It seemed almost as if it was going for GOOD, not GREAT. In that sense, the map was successful. Against most other puzzle maps, CreeperEye stands a chance. But it honestly isn't something you're going to jump for joy about.
I'll begin with the flaws and work my way up to the grand finale. What's first up? The story, or perhaps its disappearance. Yes, CreeperEye is without a story. As a puzzle map this was a very weak choice, as the map felt hollow without one. I did notice a couple of signs addressing this in the beginning, where apparently the crew who made this map hated long and detailed stories in puzzle maps, so they didn't make one. The problem is, the story didn't have to be long and complicated. Look at successful maps like Escapecraft and Escape the Puzzlemaster, both surprisingly similar to this map. Their plots were next to nothing and yet they made the map feel exciting and whole. Even the basic escape plot would have brought the map's score up MUCH higher. You'd be surprised at how much fun it is creating signs that **** the player off by taunting them.
Next, the difficult level was honestly something I didn't fully appreciate. It wasn't bad, per se, but flawed. You see, the map's signs basically told the player EXACTLY what to do or EXACTLY where to go, like looking near water. The resulting experience is not enjoyable, but luckily, the crew of the map seemed to realize their error and quickly refrained from placing any more of these signs near the end of the map. Also, the map was played entirely on peaceful. I understand, having helped a friend make a map before, that creating monster-fighting based challenges can be difficult, it really does help the map and the quality of its difficulty.
Lastly, in terms of flawed execution, the map's theme was 100% unclear. This is a major nitpick in my opinion, because honestly, the map was all over the place. Forests, wool, sandy areas, ice... if the entire map's theme had been previously established and whimsical and wonderful like Marvellous', then this would not have been a problem. But while the average player might not notice it, as a reviewer I feel obligated to inform you.
However, aside from those little flaws, the map was quite the feat. Some very original puzzles (wool colours? Genius! Never would've thought of that) mixed with new and cool locales created a lovely puzzling experience. All of the puzzles were executed with precision and crafted with care, and honestly the difficulty was averaged out to moderate (my favourite level! ), which is conquerable by most players. Not to mention the fact that the map had nearly every type of puzzle: parkour, piston, mazes, ice sliding, crafting... the list is nearly endless. I completely congratulate the creators of the map for their success in creating a fantastic assortment of great puzzles. Bravo!
As well, I felt architecturally the map was very strong as well. I absolutely loved the multiple creeper faces strategically placed around the map that somewhat gave purpose to the map's title. Similarly, the map's locations were always diverse, made out of varying materials and the like. But I can't say I was expected the sheer *excuse my language* awesomeness at the end when I witnessed a phenomenal room that completely blew by mind. Absolutely fantastic. Very great architecture, guys! Good job.
The map's main aspects, its puzzle and the surrounding architecture, are really what make this map a success. Absolutely great job. Had the flaws been fixed, in the sense that a story was added, the theme was clearer, and the signs saying exactly what to do were removed, the map's overall score would be a minimum of 2 entire numbers higher. But until then, the map is nothing special. I recommend the map to anyone who just feels like playing puzzles and just enjoying Minecraft. However, hardcore players may just skip this one.
Bugs/tips
-literally NO bugs! Seriously?
-as mentioned above, the absense of a story was a really big downfall. Even a simple one, about escaping, would have been nice. The map will feel much more whole then.
-THEME!! Specify it first as whimsical or a varied obstacle course, and then you should be fine.
-take out those signs near the beginning telling you the exact area of the blocks.
Hi, I'd just like to ask, because I just was going through streamofadventure's review to see what I shoould improve on, and I was just wondering if you were playing the right version. You said ending 2 isn't complete, but as far as I know it is. Can you just make sure that you reviewed the right version? The correct one should have a little guide at the start, to show what to do e.t.c
Oh wait.
LOL, I took my old review and changed it up as needed, as well as completely redoing most aspects to adjust for the new epicness. I must've skipped over that. I'm sure I can fix that up no problem.
Username/Creator: Appo24
Map Name: God of Deceit
Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1304673-14-000-downloadsadvpar-god-of-deceit/
Genre: Adventure/Parkour
Requirements: There's a recommended texture pack in the forum post but it is not necessary, however it does add a bit more to the visuals
Estimated Completion Time: Depends very much on your parkour abilities. 2-4 hours.
Additional Info: anything you need to know is in the thread
This map was an odd map to review; its puzzles were solid for the most part, but the story and other elements did not glue them together well. Also odd, I seemed to like this map a lot more the second time playing through. The first time, I got quite frustrated after dying a billion times on one of the first puzzles, partly because I had to go on a hike from spawn to get back (more on that later). After getting frustrated, I started to rush through the map. By the end I decided I didn't give it the justice it deserved so I replayed it, this time with single player commands (to set checkpoints.) I ended up enjoying the map. The experience really showed me how important those little fixes really are. But now I am rambling... Onto the review.
The puzzles were this map's strong point. Like most maps, there was a some parkour and other overused puzzles, but I did get the feeling that the creator attempted to be original with a few of the challenges. It also has a good balance of easy and calm puzzles, such as spot the difference, and fast paced, timed challenges. But like many of aspects of the map, I found that some of the small touches were lacking. In all though, it was the highlight of the map.
In a puzzle map, the puzzles are obviously the most important part. But they also need the right adhesive to glue it all together. When puzzles are not glued together properly it can make things feel incomplete and confusing. If a perfect puzzle map used extra-strength superglue, this map used a dried out, all purpose elementary glue stick. In other words, the map's story and finishing touches were not up to standard with its puzzles.
To go into detail, the story didn't translate well onto the signs around the map. I found it confusing at times, especially during an awkward switch between pure puzzle-after-puzzle, and an enclosed adventure portion. There were also many small areas that could have been improved with some detail additions. Small bugs also littered the map, and made it a bit of a clunky playthrough. My only other complaint would be that it isn't finished yet, so the ending was a couple signs in a room.
Overall, It was a good map. It could definitely improve in the story and detail aspect, but other than that it was solid throughout. It's Nothing special, but could be worth checking out if you are into basic puzzle maps.
Bugs/tips
-Add a scoring system
-Fix the door glitch that occurred after the recent update
-Add more checkpoints earlier in the map specifically, possibly some shortcuts from early in the map to later
-2 player support is inconsistent. If you are going to make 2 slots for minecarts do it for the entire map.
-Small typo at the beginning of the minecart puzzle- Minecraft should be minecart
-Following the tracks back to the start of the minecart puzzle is a pain in the **** and unprofessional. Make a hall to the start again at least.
-Add more items in the chests of the offices and houses
-Don't give water and lava at the start. People may use them to cheat through later levels
Wow! Did not expect to be that high. I myself am not a very creative person, and tried to draw a lot on other sources, while adding things of my own, to try to make it my own. I do have a second map out, although I don't think it is as good as the first, and it still isn't a finished storyline. I'm not sure if I will finish, because of the lack of people actually playing my maps (It's been a couple months, and there are 0 comments on part 2). I'm interested in the easter eggs. There were 3 in the map, and you didn't mention anything about it in the review, so maybe you didn't know about it, or didn't find any, but they're there.
There was something else I wanted to say, but I forgot. Great review, keep it up! Also, if anyone has any idea for something about the map, message me. I'll be here
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
If I helped you or you are pleased with my work, push that big green + over there!
Wow! Did not expect to be that high. I myself am not a very creative person, and tried to draw a lot on other sources, while adding things of my own, to try to make it my own. I do have a second map out, although I don't think it is as good as the first, and it still isn't a finished storyline. I'm not sure if I will finish, because of the lack of people actually playing my maps (It's been a couple months, and there are 0 comments on part 2). I'm interested in the easter eggs. There were 3 in the map, and you didn't mention anything about it in the review, so maybe you didn't know about it, or didn't find any, but they're there.
There was something else I wanted to say, but I forgot. Great review, keep it up! Also, if anyone has any idea for something about the map, message me. I'll be here
Hmm... No I don't think I found any when I was playing. I am glad you enjoyed the review!
Username(creator): Wout12345
Map Name: Explosive parkour
Forum Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1348570-park-explosive-parkour/
Genre: Parkour
Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.): None, however, the second part of the YT video has to be watched before doing the parkour itself.
Estimated Completion Time: In another thread I said 30-60 minutes, however, nobody has confirmed this estimation yet.
Additional Info(optional): Please don't give this an instant low rating because of the graphics ... I have to admit the graphics didn't even cross my mind during the two-day design of this map (however, I have spent about 10 hours in it, because of the precision needed for the TNT jump), but, when you think about it, I can't see any kind of decoration that matches the TNT theme of the map, so just plain graphics are not that bad I think. By the way, I usually pay more attention to the presentation in my other maps, actually, so don't make prejudgements for those based on this one. XD
Requirements (mods, texture packs, ect.) None, play it on default
Estimated Completion Time: Hmmm... well, I never really completed my map, but if you did the map, WITHOUT dying, I would say you could do it in about 30-60 minutes. IF YOU DID DIE, well, that's another story
Additional Info: This is MY FIRST map, and I'm actually trying to find reviewers to check my maps out, because I know as a first time map maker, I need reviewers. And I am prepared for whatever reviews you guys give me. And I worked hard for the challenges more than the design, but I understand if you have to judge the design too
Oh and another note, there's a reason why it's called 'Extreme'
If you die, you go back to where you started. You only have 1
checkpoint, and that's your starting point
So in simple terms, if you die, you have to try the whole course again
Those recommendations need to be in the format on the OP (pg 1). The first recommendation you gave, Flatland Survival, is a survival map, a genre we don't review. Try to pick only one of your 2nd or 3rd projects for us to review.
A review for Living in the Shadows should be out today.
Also it seems you guys mostly do adventure map reviews which is fine. I understand if you don't do CTM or survival style maps but I would appreciate a review
Dude you should really play through your map at least twice before releasing it. You can find loads of bugs and stuff that can be improved when you're the one playing it. I suggest doing that before getting it reviewed
Uhm, dude, I already played my map. I mean, I CHECKED EVERYTHING ABOUT IT, seriously. I didn't play my map in the way you're suggesting, I checked it. There's kind of a difference with that. It's like checking all parts of the map wiithout participating in it. I already fixed all the bugs, and I'm sure about that. So, yeah, my map IS REALLY ready. And I hope I get a review
So, um, hello. I'd like to throw this reviewer application here...
Username: Zres Age (optional): 17 Gender (optional): Male Map maker? (if yes, provide a link to map(s)): First map in progress; it's going to be rather large. Writing experience: Do high school-level creative writing courses count? I also have a good grasp of the English language, if I do say so myself. Review experience: Not much actual experience writing reviews, but this post should give you an idea of my writing and review style: http://www.minecraft.../#entry16636546 Have you read the entire "Join The Team" section of this thread?: Why, yes. Yes I have! Additional info: I don't participate in these forums very much, but I lurk. I lurk a lot. Especially in the Maps section. You see, I scour this forum for any promising custom maps for me to play, and I can't say that my searches are very successful. I want to be a reviewer for you for two reasons: I want to be open on what custom maps I play (you giving me maps to review will certainly help with this), and I want to help out mappers by handing them criticism. I love custom maps; I play them far more often than I play regular Minecraft. It hurts me when I see mediocrity menacingly mucking about, and it hurts me when I play a map that makes me groan and sigh in utter tedium. It's depressing! I want to cover the bases. I want to tell these aspiring mappers what they did and didn't do right. I want to help others CRAFT better worlds, figuratively speaking.
This application looks a bit sketchy, I admit. I can't give you more than a personal testimony, due to my lack of real evidence of my... Let's say... competence. Regardless, I hope you consider my application, flowery words and all. If it means anything more to you, I have watched every custom map I have ever played with a critical eye. And I have played many custom maps.
Thanks for your time! And sorry for the wall of text.
Username(creator): Wout12345
Map Name: Explosive parkour
Forum Link: http://www.minecraft...losive-parkour/
Genre: Parkour
Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.): None, however, the second part of the YT video has to be watched before doing the parkour itself.
Estimated Completion Time: In another thread I said 30-60 minutes, however, nobody has confirmed this estimation yet.
Additional Info(optional): Please don't give this an instant low rating because of the graphics ... I have to admit the graphics didn't even cross my mind during the two-day design of this map (however, I have spent about 10 hours in it, because of the precision needed for the TNT jump), but, when you think about it, I can't see any kind of decoration that matches the TNT theme of the map, so just plain graphics are not that bad I think. By the way, I usually pay more attention to the presentation in my other maps, actually, so don't make prejudgements for those based on this one. XD
Requirements (mods, texture packs, ect.) None, play it on default
Estimated Completion Time: Hmmm... well, I never really completed my map, but if you did the map, WITHOUT dying, I would say you could do it in about 30-60 minutes. IF YOU DID DIE, well, that's another story
Additional Info: This is MY FIRST map, and I'm actually trying to find reviewers to check my maps out, because I know as a first time map maker, I need reviewers. And I am prepared for whatever reviews you guys give me. And I worked hard for the challenges more than the design, but I understand if you have to judge the design too
Oh and another note, there's a reason why it's called 'Extreme'
If you die, you go back to where you started. You only have 1
checkpoint, and that's your starting point
So in simple terms, if you die, you have to try the whole course again
Username(creator): DinosaurWizard Map Name:Mythic Waters Forum Link:http://www.minecraft...7#entry16071527 Genre:CTM/survival Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.):none Estimated Completion Time:10-15 hours (unless you're fangride then its like maybe 5 hours) Additional Info(optional):just follow the rules I provide you!
Also it seems you guys mostly do adventure map reviews which is fine. I understand if you don't do CTM or survival style maps but I would appreciate a review
So, um, hello. I'd like to throw this reviewer application here...
Username: Zres Age (optional): 17 Gender (optional): Male Map maker? (if yes, provide a link to map(s)): First map in progress; it's going to be rather large. Writing experience: Do high school-level creative writing courses count? I also have a good grasp of the English language, if I do say so myself. Review experience: Not much actual experience writing reviews, but this post should give you an idea of my writing and review style: http://www.minecraft.../#entry16636546 Have you read the entire "Join The Team" section of this thread?: Why, yes. Yes I have! Additional info: I don't participate in these forums very much, but I lurk. I lurk a lot. Especially in the Maps section. You see, I scour this forum for any promising custom maps for me to play, and I can't say that my searches are very successful. I want to be a reviewer for you for two reasons: I want to be open on what custom maps I play (you giving me maps to review will certainly help with this), and I want to help out mappers by handing them criticism. I love custom maps; I play them far more often than I play regular Minecraft. It hurts me when I see mediocrity menacingly mucking about, and it hurts me when I play a map that makes me groan and sigh in utter tedium. It's depressing! I want to cover the bases. I want to tell these aspiring mappers what they did and didn't do right. I want to help others CRAFT better worlds, figuratively speaking.
This application looks a bit sketchy, I admit. I can't give you more than a personal testimony, due to my lack of real evidence of my... Let's say... competence. Regardless, I hope you consider my application, flowery words and all. If it means anything more to you, I have watched every custom map I have ever played with a critical eye. And I have played many custom maps.
Thanks for your time! And sorry for the wall of text.
Nostalgia is a messy map. The inconclusive questing given throughout it is enough to ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable, but the overall quality recoils because of the unsteady mechanics layered throughout the map. It is also yet another role-playing style adventure, just like a map I played recently, named Boulefield. It wasn't quite able to reach the high standards that that map set, but it sure is on the right path. What the map maker must really do is clean the adventure up. It'll have a much better chance of fairing against Boulefield and other RPG maps out there when the task is completed. I say this because through a number of separate aspects of the adventure I noted some real potential. I hope it's exploited.
The story was where a large mass of the mess was concentrated. It's a mainly linear storyline with exploration and combat playing major roles, and comedy laced throughout. The comedy is refreshing at first, in comparison with the many serious role-playing maps and games out there, but it soon grows tiresome, even though it dies down. The story itself is also pretty predictable, and despite being original, is somewhat traditional and redundant. It doesn't help that the notes often lack proper spelling and occasionally even grammar. And while this is all supposed to play into the comedy role of the map, it distracts the player from the main quest and the three side quests far too much. So much so, that in fact I actually didn't care about most of the story by the end of the adventure. But put aside the comedy, and the story is much sturdier. The somewhat silly tale being told is more intruiging, and at least two of its three side quests are enough to hold your attention without distracting you from the main quest too much. I won't go so far as to say this is the worst plot execution I've seen in a map, but it certainly isn't the best.
But putting aside the story, it is far easier to see where the map strives. One particular aspect it does fairly well in is its architecture. Builds are often no more than mediocre, but occasionally there will be a structure that makes you go "Wow." The map maker isn't too new to the concept of a map and its components, and it is very clear that those buildings were just as awesome as intended. There weren't any structures that were terrible or even remotely bad, as even the most mediocre of builds had their strengths and diversities. And those that made me say "Wow" were breathtaking. The limits of Minecraft were sometimes even pushed with what I witnessed, and I mean that as a huge compliment. It's needless to say that the map maker is no stranger to construction.
The atmosphere of a map is always a tricky aspect to analyse because it so heavily relies on gameplay, story, builds, and creativity, but it becomes easier when you see how seamless those aspects are integrated into one another. The story is suitable for the builds provided, and the gameplay is creative, even while not in its prime. I can't say too much on the atmosphere's behalf, save for that it did what it had to.
Gameplay was a final aspect of the map I felt was fairly strong. Side quests felt a little forced, often considering where they were precisely placed, and some didn't make much sense, but all provided their moments and were worthwhile. But I must also present a criticism I have here. The questing is rough around the edges. Often it overpowers the exploration by telling you exactly what to do and where to go. And while linear gameplay can be decent, it is not nearly as fun as Boulefield's openworld style questing where you had to explore small, realistically diverse areas in order to advance the story. For this reason I say that Nostalgia is weaker than Boulefield, but like I said previously, it could be improved to come closer to that high standard.
However, when it came to exploration, the map was top notch. Even though exploration often felt needless and sometimes convoluted when integrated with the story, other times it was supremely superb, perhaps even stronger than Boulefield's. The story provided motivation, the builds provided astronomical support, and the well thought-out atmosphere was touching. There was so much reason to want to explore and so many options that sometimes it even felt like a treasure hunt, what with the player being the hunter hoping to reap the rewards of exploration. I won't go into further detail on the matter, but say that if the map excells for one reason, it's this.
As I stated long ago, Nostalgia has potential. I dearly hope I've helped the map maker realise this and that he fixes the map accordingly. I feel compelled to compare it to Boulefield because it was clearly striving for a different adventure but similar goal: to create the best RPG Minecraft experience ever. I feel that only Boulefield did this, but I have yet to give up hope for Nostalgia. There's lots to improve, and little time before more role-playing styled maps begin to appear, so it's crucial that Nostalgia: A Simple Quest fixes its problems now rather than later.
Bugs/Tips:
-comedy. Tone it down or remove it entirely. It is unstable and close to annoying by the end of the adventure.
-spelling. Hate to be a grammar Nazi, but you need to fix that too.
-implement the side quests at more appropriate times during the few exploration sequences, not during linear questing.
-make the side quests somewhat related to the main story so that they are less distracting.
Jeezus, I just spent an hour on that. HOLY SH-
-StreamofAdventure
Actions, adventures, puzzles, parkours, fights. 1 map, 50 levels. Can you take on the ultimate challenges?
I'll begin with the flaws and work my way up to the grand finale. What's first up? The story, or perhaps its disappearance. Yes, CreeperEye is without a story. As a puzzle map this was a very weak choice, as the map felt hollow without one. I did notice a couple of signs addressing this in the beginning, where apparently the crew who made this map hated long and detailed stories in puzzle maps, so they didn't make one. The problem is, the story didn't have to be long and complicated. Look at successful maps like Escapecraft and Escape the Puzzlemaster, both surprisingly similar to this map. Their plots were next to nothing and yet they made the map feel exciting and whole. Even the basic escape plot would have brought the map's score up MUCH higher. You'd be surprised at how much fun it is creating signs that **** the player off by taunting them.
Next, the difficult level was honestly something I didn't fully appreciate. It wasn't bad, per se, but flawed. You see, the map's signs basically told the player EXACTLY what to do or EXACTLY where to go, like looking near water. The resulting experience is not enjoyable, but luckily, the crew of the map seemed to realize their error and quickly refrained from placing any more of these signs near the end of the map. Also, the map was played entirely on peaceful. I understand, having helped a friend make a map before, that creating monster-fighting based challenges can be difficult, it really does help the map and the quality of its difficulty.
Lastly, in terms of flawed execution, the map's theme was 100% unclear. This is a major nitpick in my opinion, because honestly, the map was all over the place. Forests, wool, sandy areas, ice... if the entire map's theme had been previously established and whimsical and wonderful like Marvellous', then this would not have been a problem. But while the average player might not notice it, as a reviewer I feel obligated to inform you.
However, aside from those little flaws, the map was quite the feat. Some very original puzzles (wool colours? Genius! Never would've thought of that) mixed with new and cool locales created a lovely puzzling experience. All of the puzzles were executed with precision and crafted with care, and honestly the difficulty was averaged out to moderate (my favourite level!
As well, I felt architecturally the map was very strong as well. I absolutely loved the multiple creeper faces strategically placed around the map that somewhat gave purpose to the map's title. Similarly, the map's locations were always diverse, made out of varying materials and the like. But I can't say I was expected the sheer *excuse my language* awesomeness at the end when I witnessed a phenomenal room that completely blew by mind. Absolutely fantastic. Very great architecture, guys! Good job.
The map's main aspects, its puzzle and the surrounding architecture, are really what make this map a success. Absolutely great job. Had the flaws been fixed, in the sense that a story was added, the theme was clearer, and the signs saying exactly what to do were removed, the map's overall score would be a minimum of 2 entire numbers higher. But until then, the map is nothing special. I recommend the map to anyone who just feels like playing puzzles and just enjoying Minecraft. However, hardcore players may just skip this one.
Bugs/tips
-literally NO bugs! Seriously?
-as mentioned above, the absense of a story was a really big downfall. Even a simple one, about escaping, would have been nice. The map will feel much more whole then.
-THEME!! Specify it first as whimsical or a varied obstacle course, and then you should be fine.
-take out those signs near the beginning telling you the exact area of the blocks.
Oh wait.
LOL, I took my old review and changed it up as needed, as well as completely redoing most aspects to adjust for the new epicness. I must've skipped over that. I'm sure I can fix that up no problem.
Map Name: God of Deceit
Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1304673-14-000-downloadsadvpar-god-of-deceit/
Genre: Adventure/Parkour
Requirements: There's a recommended texture pack in the forum post but it is not necessary, however it does add a bit more to the visuals
Estimated Completion Time: Depends very much on your parkour abilities. 2-4 hours.
Additional Info: anything you need to know is in the thread
Wow! Did not expect to be that high. I myself am not a very creative person, and tried to draw a lot on other sources, while adding things of my own, to try to make it my own. I do have a second map out, although I don't think it is as good as the first, and it still isn't a finished storyline. I'm not sure if I will finish, because of the lack of people actually playing my maps (It's been a couple months, and there are 0 comments on part 2). I'm interested in the easter eggs. There were 3 in the map, and you didn't mention anything about it in the review, so maybe you didn't know about it, or didn't find any, but they're there.
There was something else I wanted to say, but I forgot. Great review, keep it up! Also, if anyone has any idea for something about the map, message me. I'll be here
Map Name: The Art of Escape
Forum Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1300217-edit-the-art-of-escape/
Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.): No requirements
Additional Info(optional): Follow rules and you should be good to go.
Hmm... No I don't think I found any when I was playing. I am glad you enjoyed the review!
Map Name: Explosive parkour
Forum Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1348570-park-explosive-parkour/
Genre: Parkour
Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.): None, however, the second part of the YT video has to be watched before doing the parkour itself.
Estimated Completion Time: In another thread I said 30-60 minutes, however, nobody has confirmed this estimation yet.
Additional Info(optional): Please don't give this an instant low rating because of the graphics ... I have to admit the graphics didn't even cross my mind during the two-day design of this map (however, I have spent about 10 hours in it, because of the precision needed for the TNT jump), but, when you think about it, I can't see any kind of decoration that matches the TNT theme of the map, so just plain graphics are not that bad I think.
Map Name: Extreme Limits
Forum Link: http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1361445-parkpuz-extreme-limits-extreme-parkourpuzzle-v-30
Genre: Parkour/Puzzle
Requirements (mods, texture packs, ect.) None, play it on default
Estimated Completion Time: Hmmm... well, I never really completed my map, but if you did the map, WITHOUT dying, I would say you could do it in about 30-60 minutes. IF YOU DID DIE, well, that's another story
Additional Info: This is MY FIRST map, and I'm actually trying to find reviewers to check my maps out, because I know as a first time map maker, I need reviewers. And I am prepared for whatever reviews you guys give me. And I worked hard for the challenges more than the design, but I understand if you have to judge the design too
Oh and another note, there's a reason why it's called 'Extreme'
checkpoint, and that's your starting point
So in simple terms, if you die, you have to try the whole course again
here is my 2nd map i ever made: http://www.planetminecraft.com/project/parkour-palace-1149643/ here is my 1st project ever made: http://www.planetminecraft.com/project/flatlands-survival-beta-10-floating-ores/ hope you like them!
Those recommendations need to be in the format on the OP (pg 1). The first recommendation you gave, Flatland Survival, is a survival map, a genre we don't review. Try to pick only one of your 2nd or 3rd projects for us to review.
A review for Living in the Shadows should be out today.
Map Name:Mythic Waters
Forum Link:http://www.minecraftforum.net/topic/1315455-ctmcollection-dinosaurwizards-tyrannical-turf-series/page__p__16071527#entry16071527
Genre:CTM/survival
Requirements(mods,texture packs,ect.):none
Estimated Completion Time:10-15 hours (unless you're fangride then its like maybe 5 hours)
Additional Info(optional):just follow the rules I provide you!
Also it seems you guys mostly do adventure map reviews which is fine. I understand if you don't do CTM or survival style maps but I would appreciate a review
Uhm, dude, I already played my map. I mean, I CHECKED EVERYTHING ABOUT IT, seriously. I didn't play my map in the way you're suggesting, I checked it. There's kind of a difference with that. It's like checking all parts of the map wiithout participating in it. I already fixed all the bugs, and I'm sure about that. So, yeah, my map IS REALLY ready. And I hope I get a review
Yeah, I tried it completely already. I even tried it with a friend.
Username: Zres
Age (optional): 17
Gender (optional): Male
Map maker? (if yes, provide a link to map(s)): First map in progress; it's going to be rather large.
Writing experience: Do high school-level creative writing courses count? I also have a good grasp of the English language, if I do say so myself.
Review experience: Not much actual experience writing reviews, but this post should give you an idea of my writing and review style: http://www.minecraft.../#entry16636546
Have you read the entire "Join The Team" section of this thread?: Why, yes. Yes I have!
Additional info: I don't participate in these forums very much, but I lurk. I lurk a lot. Especially in the Maps section. You see, I scour this forum for any promising custom maps for me to play, and I can't say that my searches are very successful. I want to be a reviewer for you for two reasons: I want to be open on what custom maps I play (you giving me maps to review will certainly help with this), and I want to help out mappers by handing them criticism. I love custom maps; I play them far more often than I play regular Minecraft. It hurts me when I see mediocrity menacingly mucking about, and it hurts me when I play a map that makes me groan and sigh in utter tedium. It's depressing! I want to cover the bases. I want to tell these aspiring mappers what they did and didn't do right. I want to help others CRAFT better worlds, figuratively speaking.
This application looks a bit sketchy, I admit. I can't give you more than a personal testimony, due to my lack of real evidence of my... Let's say... competence. Regardless, I hope you consider my application, flowery words and all. If it means anything more to you, I have watched every custom map I have ever played with a critical eye. And I have played many custom maps.
Thanks for your time! And sorry for the wall of text.
Accepted
Accepted
No survival, and proper apps if you want a chance at getting accepted.
No surv/ctm
Pm'd