Map Review Monday
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!
Monday, 30th December 2024
Design
This map exudes a dark, industrial, and mechanical atmosphere, reminiscent of something straight out of Alien 3. It has a foreboding quality, almost as though a Xenomorph could leap out at any moment. The design is what I’d describe as a “Fast Deathmatch” style, featuring close-quarters combat and narrow corridors, with minimal open spaces. Despite the confined layout, it’s evident that the map has been meticulously planned. The map spans three distinct levels, interconnected by lifts and ladders, allowing for verticality and dynamic movement. Its compact design doesn’t sacrifice strategic depth, as there are plenty of traps scattered throughout to keep players on their toes. These traps are not only well-placed but also add a layer of tactical gameplay, letting you eliminate enemies approaching from any direction—be it in front of or behind you.
Gameplay
The gameplay here is fast-paced and intense, perfectly suited for high-energy matches. While it shines in vanilla Half-Life Deathmatch, I believe it truly excelled in Severian’s Mod, though it may have been a touch too chaotic for my personal preference in that setting. This is a clever map that requires a balance of quick reflexes and careful observation. Slowing down to assess your surroundings is crucial, but that’s easier said than done when you’re under relentless attack. The traps scattered throughout the map add an element of risk and reward. For example, accessing certain items like the 9mmAR with grenades or the RPG requires careful manoeuvring and often comes with significant risk. The trapdoor leading to the yellow toxic water is particularly memorable, adding an extra layer of danger and excitement.
Verdict
Dragon is a fantastic map that has stood the test of time. It feels like one of those timeless classics, still frequently played on many servers even today. Personally, I have fond memories of playing this map years ago on an old CRT monitor, where the naturally dark display made navigating its shadowy corridors even more challenging—and thrilling. What’s remarkable is how well the map holds up in today’s standards. In fact, I think I enjoy it now more than I ever did before. The mix of fast-paced action, clever traps, and multi-level design makes it an enduring favourite that’s as much fun to play today as it was when it was first released.
Overall Score: 7/10
Would Recommend!
Monday, 23rd December 2024
Design
This map is a remake of the original for the Opposing Force addon for Half-Life. However, setting that aside, this version builds upon the original with some welcome additions that enhance both gameplay and immersion. The aesthetic leans heavily into a futuristic theme, characterised by the bright neon lights that were synonymous with "futuristic" design in the early 2000s. While this style might feel somewhat dated by today’s standards, it’s undeniably nostalgic and adds a vibrant energy to the map. Personally, I enjoyed this aesthetic and have always appreciated maps that embrace this style. Park is a large map with a thoughtful layout. There are ample open spaces for dynamic combat, complemented by more enclosed areas ideal for sneaking and tactical manoeuvres. The railway track offers a clever way to traverse the map quickly, connecting key areas efficiently. The additional sections that Finger has introduced blend seamlessly into the map, feeling natural and purposeful rather than tacked on.
Gameplay
This map is exceptionally well-made, offering a versatile experience that scales beautifully with the number of players. Whether it’s a tense 1v1 duel or a chaotic match with 24 players (a sight I haven’t seen in years!), the map retains its flow and balance. The darker aesthetic not only enhances the map’s atmosphere but also introduces an additional layer of strategy. It provides ample opportunities for hiding, which, while not always encouraged, can be an effective tactic for players who prefer a stealthy approach. The design ensures that campers and aggressive players alike can find ways to adapt their playstyles effectively.
Verdict
Overall, this remake is a brilliant reinterpretation of the original map. While I’ve avoided direct comparisons to the original for this review, I must note that this version feels more dated, primarily due to its textured neon lights and early-2000s design language. That said, this nostalgic style holds a charm of its own, especially for players who appreciate maps from that era. The map excels in gameplay, whether played casually with small groups or in larger matches. Its layout also makes it an excellent choice for clan battles, offering multiple attack routes and opportunities for strategic gameplay. I can’t fault it on its design or functionality—it’s a well-rounded and enjoyable map that stands as a testament to the creativity of the Half-Life modding community.
Overall Score: 8/10
Would Recommend!
