This is the beginning of my second net map pack. This pack is a departure from the last one (Azure Dreams) because detail is more important. The first map ought to show this immediately. While some maps won't be as detailed as others, and I'll still emphasize simplicity, I hope that you notice the small touches that make this pack even better than the last. The changelog gives a quick run-down of changes from release to release; if you care to find out why the pack and maps are named as they are, see the note. I have a few people to thank for their help. And now for the good part, the map descriptions.
- Underneath the Radar
- Big Screen Satellite
- Goodbye, Mother Earth
- King of Snake
- Sails in a Gale
- This Is Hurtin' No One
- Born Slippy NUXX
Underneath the Radar
This map is perfect for duels. It's got an interesting assortment of weapons. It has obstacles and multiple paths. It's even got a blast shield in the middle that you can open and close for sniping or reconnaissance. You'll have to work in order to kill your opponent. Here, it's as much about wits as it is about reflexes. As much as I love this map, I can't recommend it at all for more than two players. In fact, I advise you not to play it with more than two. You can try, but it won't be the same. Other than that, when you need to duke it out with that jerk who thinks he's better, take him here and test his mettle.
Big Screen Satellite
In this, hands-down the most popular map in the pack, the theme is speed. You can teleport, take elevators, run, or even use a goo chute to get where you want to go. Gameplay here works well with two players, but testing so far has shown that even five players can have a great time here. Keep your finger on the trigger, because even if you opponents are nowhere to be seen, they'll find you quickly. It is also a KOTH map; very tricky and enjoyable. One of my favorites in the pack because of its variety, speed, and wide range of players.
Goodbye, Mother Earth
The pack's first arena, GME is all about rockets. This is a great place to practice with a few friends. As with the last map, you can get around very quickly, thanks to well-placed teleporters. Just be careful; a rocket might greet you on the other side. With four or more players, you can have a blast. If you're not comfortable with looking up and down, turning, and using the SPNKR, then hang in there. If you don't like the SPKNKR, I hope you enjoy shotguns.
King of Snake
When the map previously in this slot, "Mmm, Skyscraper," showed its awkward flow and gameplay, I realized that I needed to replace it. But with what? One morning, I finally found the form of the new map. It turned out to be one of the best maps in the pack, with both expansive outdoor areas, enclosed rooms, a two-story building, and a small river flowing through the middle. It draws some inspiration from Wolfy's Incontinental Divide. There are only three weapons here: the MA-75B, the WSTE-M, and the SPNKR. Three to five players can have a comfortable game here.
Sails in a Gale
One of my more experimental maps. As far as I know, it is unique in its design. At first, I wanted to make a mazelike map, but those are usually a drag. So I decided to create maze tunnels, but in loose association, with easy access to the roofs of the tunnels. The result is a tense game of chase. Dodging plays a critical role because it is so easy to do: just run up the steps that lead to the tunnel tops. Or you can hide in the tunnels themselves and prepare an ambush. Two-player games here are interesting, but I recommend more to keep the action going.
This Is Hurtin' No One
A new, experimental, and expansive map. It took a while to come up with this one, but after looking at one of the great maps of the Aleph One era, X-18 by Ryoko, I created this. It's got a lot of different areas to fight in: several larger "bubble" areas, the connecting hallways, and the large "top floor" (more like an attic). A waterfall provides a scenic view from which you can shoot at your friends. The list goes on. Ryoko has told me that this is the best map in the pack, and I'm inclined to believe him. This map requires four players to have a game with more than one or two kills per minute, and I recommend six or more players for the complete experience.
Born Slippy NUXX
A surprisingly fun map. It's tight, with fast action, and two distinct map regions, separated by a neat bridge. It strikes an interesting balance with weapons: there is one SPNKR location on the map, and no SPNKR ammo. Use this weapon wisely, because you won't be able to use it again until after you die. The map works with two players, although it's not designed for such low numbers. It is great with four or more players; in a way, it's a larger Big Screen Satellite.
I hope you enjoy this pack. If you have questions or comments, you can probably find me (jon_irons or just irons) on the #alephone IRC channel on irc.freenode.net. I'm also a member of the Pfhorums (www.pfhorums.com).