This map created by PanTera is a wonderful example to all mappers of how little details go a long way. I loved this map. Why? Read on!
Presentation / Technical
The textures were fantastic. The transition effects, the grass, the red 'X' on non-accessible doors, as well as general wall textures all came together beautifully to create a wonderful ambience. Everything was as I would expect from a real place. Can't help but give top
marks for the top quality, well used textures. Oh, and that circling bird was a nice touch!
The architecture in itself was nothing to scream about, but laid out as it is; everything fitted right in. Although nothing really caught my eye, with the exception of a few things like the wind-tower, my eye did not need to be caught. Nothing stood out, therefore
everything fitted right in. Some nice effects however, indoors some nice sloped walls/roofs, a nice firing-slit at the Allied end of the map, great use of rusty railings, lovely ladders... you get the idea! Although few standing out features, who needs them when you have a map this natural looking? Good marks for this.
The lighting, this map being in full, harsh daylight, was not really applicable; apart from indoors. A high ambientlight was used, but this is forgiven as this fits in nicely with the effect this map creates. All sources of light have a nicely wired up lamp - all that wiring must have taken a while; and this adds beautifully to 'the effect'. Although lighting is sort-of a null issue in this map, if
this map's suncolor and ambientlight values were dropped into night-time, this map would still look great, even with just the existing lights. Good marks!
The sounds were wonderful. The wind, the creaking of the wind-tower, the occasional crickets, all went great into this map. Nothing to detract from ones 'listening hard for the enemy', but enough as to add well to the aforementioned 'effect'.
The theme was wonderful. The map had a theme, and it was rigidly adhered to all the way through this map. Each little detail added that little bit more. The map was ended off wonderfully too, with gates offering a little 'view' of the outside world, as well as rocks cutting off view.
The FPS rates are high, the detail rates are high; the effect is wonderful...
Playability / Game Flaws
I did play this map for a little while, but unfortunately my playing experiences were limited. Each team had their own routes, hiding spots, and gameplay flowed wonderfully. Although quite large, this map is still very playable for anywhere down to six people. A well thought out design is evident; and it certainly pays its dividends.
Conclusion
A highly playable, fully natural masterpiece. "Should I download it?" Of course! Grab the Pk3, load your Thompson and go beat some nazis. Alternatively, grab the Pk3, Get on your sunglasses and bring a camera to enjoy the sights of this map! Great Job PanTera!