Map Review Monday
Monday, 24th March 2025
Design
What a thrilling map! The architecture here is nothing short of spectacular — a true feast for the seasoned deathmatcher. As the name suggests, Catacomb plunges players into a labyrinthine world of layered pathways, tunnels, and vertical combat arenas. From tight corridors to open atriums, it’s clear the creator poured both style and strategic thinking into every inch. Multiple levels provide ample opportunity to dominate the map — once you’ve learned its ins and outs, of course. Hidden tunnels criss-cross beneath the main areas, and secret portals offer sneaky shortcuts for the cunning. Visually, it’s a beauty. The warm palette of reds and oranges is easy on the eyes and beautifully complements the eerie, ancient theme. There’s even a lesser-known beta version featuring a blue-tinted palette, equally stunning in its own right. The map flows brilliantly between upper and lower levels, but do watch your step — tumble into the pit and you’ll be greeted not with mercy, but with a pack of mischievous snarks. A deliberate touch by the mapper, and a cheeky one at that!
Gameplay
Designed for classic deathmatch chaos, this map oozes atmosphere and tension. While I never really delved into Quake II, this map gives me those vibes — gritty, layered, and aggressive. It wouldn’t feel out of place in Deathmatch Classic, and perhaps that’s what makes it feel so familiar yet refreshing. This isn’t one of those run-and-gun, learn-it-in-five-minutes maps. Catacomb rewards patience and exploration. Mastering its layout grants you access to prime vantage points, powerful weapons, and vital armour stashes — all while denying your foes the same. It’s not linear by any means, which keeps gameplay unpredictable and endlessly engaging. I haven’t had the chance to test this one in a 1v1 setting, but I imagine it would be quite the chess match — tense, tactical, and unforgiving.
Verdict
It’s difficult to find fault with a map that’s been this carefully crafted. The more I play Catacomb, the more I want to play it again. It’s challenging, yes — but in the best possible way. With its blend of hidden routes, verticality, and strategic item placement, it’s the kind of map that rewards knowledge and punishes carelessness. A timeless addition to any Half-Life deathmatch rotation, i've put it on the Outpost 42 rotation anyway! Top marks!
Overall Score: 7/10
Would Recommend!
Monday, 17th March 2025
Design
What an extraordinary map! I’ve always found this one to be truly unique — there really was nothing quite like it when it first appeared. The design is wonderfully clever, with a fantastic balance between open areas for combat and tight spaces for hiding or manoeuvring. It’s not just good-looking, it’s strategically sound too. The aesthetic is stunning — almost lifelike in places. The attention to detail is phenomenal: a fully realised meat shop, a weapons store, the bell you can ring at the top of the tower, and the destructible bridge barriers that change the dynamics of the map entirely. And let’s not forget the river... take a misstep, and you’ll plummet to your doom before you can shout “medkit!” A gorgeous, immersive map that’s firmly embedded in my server’s rotation.
Gameplay
One word: fun! Pure, unrelenting fun. This map is chaos in the best possible way. With a full server, it quickly becomes an absolute bloodbath — but there’s plenty of room for stealth too. You can hear footsteps and gunfire echoing through the buildings, allowing smart players to hunt (or hide) with precision. Once you’ve got the long jump module and the crossbow, you’re well-equipped to dominate — but the map’s balance ensures no one can hold all the power for long. You'll constantly be on the lookout for health, armour, and ammo. It’s fast-paced, tactical, and gloriously unpredictable.
Verdict
I’ll be honest — this might not be the most impartial review, because I’ve always adored this map. I remember reading the old Planet Half-Life reviews when it was first released, and the buzz was undeniable. It truly was — and still is — something special. It’s one of those timeless maps I’ll never tire of. From the sound of that bell to the danger lurking beneath the bridge, it just works. A true classic that I’ll always look forward to playing.
Overall Score: 9/10
Would Recommend!
Monday, 6th January 2025
Design
Ringing in the new year with classic map! At first glance, this map might strike you as another Crossfire remake. However, I don’t think that’s entirely fair—there’s far more to this map than meets the eye. To be honest, it’s a bit of a mixed bag at first impression: clothes hanging in one area, explosive boxes scattered in the middle, toxic zones nearby, shady alleyways, and a teleporter that moves you only about two metres forward. It’s a curious mix of elements, and yet, if you’ve ever met Henchman, the designer, it all somehow makes perfect sense. Despite the seemingly random assortment of features, the map is well designed and plays exceptionally well. Weapon placements are thoughtfully executed, ensuring a balanced gameplay experience. There are plenty of hiding spots for tactical play, and the graffiti scattered across the map is a charming touch, with some nostalgic nods that are sure to amuse long-time players... remember the [TAG] clan!.
Gameplay
As mentioned earlier, while there are echoes of Crossfire in this map, it is by no means a replica. The gameplay, especially in the centre of the map, is high-octane and intensely chaotic. However, the layout provides ample opportunities to escape the fray. Venturing away from the central hub lets you discover hidden treasures like the crossbow or the Gauss gun, giving players strategic options to outmanoeuvre their opponents. The best word to describe this map is fun. I suspect that creating a chaotic and entertaining deathmatch experience was the intention here, and it absolutely delivers. Admittedly, I’m not entirely sure why it’s called Lemon, but perhaps the quirky name hints at the unexpected nature of this map. Whatever the reason, it’s hard to fault the gameplay. It’s been a staple on my servers and in the community for over two decades, which is a testament to how well it resonates with players.
Verdict
Where do I even begin with this map? Is it the greatest map ever created? No. Is it the most innovative or intricately designed? No. But that’s not the point. This map has been a beloved favourite on Outpost 42 and Gits servers for over 20 years, and for good reason. It’s a fan favourite here, and we never tire of it. From a review perspective, the design is solid, though perhaps not overly creative, with clear inspiration drawn from Crossfire. That said, this influence doesn’t detract from its charm. It feels like a deliberate homage to a classic deathmatch style, and it succeeds in creating a chaotic yet immensely enjoyable experience. The gameplay is where this map truly shines, offering non-stop fun that keeps players coming back for more. If this map appeared in a server vote, I’d pick it every time—and I suspect many others would too.
Overall Score: 6/10
Would Recommend!
