Design

This map showcases excellent design with a well-thought-out structure that stays true to traditional Half-Life aesthetics. There are numerous areas to hide, plenty of space for battles, and a great balance between texture usage and lighting. Attention to detail is apparent throughout the map. However, one minor criticism is the slight FPS drop in certain areas. While this may not be an issue for most modern systems, it’s worth noting for players with older hardware.

This map earns additional brownie points for incorporating a Xen-themed area where players can pick up the hornetgun and snarks, which happen to be my personal favourites. The Xen-themed area adds an exciting and nostalgic touch, perfectly complementing the map's overall design. Mighty Xen! We can't forget about Freeman (or Xen).

Gameplay

Despite its relatively small size, this map offers plenty of dynamic gameplay elements. It ticks all the boxes for fans of traditional Half-Life or Quake-style gaming. Jump pads provide an excellent escape mechanism during combat, and the conveyor belt allows players to traverse the map quickly. With ample hiding spots, running paths, and the thrilling addition of the death grinder on the ground floor, the map creates a sense of urgency and chaos that keeps players engaged.

It is quite a challenging map, with various levels and obstacles that players must navigate through, which can either work in your advantage, or the player chasing you, especially when trying to protect the tau cannon. These features enhance the overall gameplay experience, making it quite competitive. The secret room was a real challenge to find and it's pretty well hidden, but I must admit I do love secrets in maps and this is a good one. There are plenty of little hidden areas within the maps making it perfect for hiding and preparing a snark/satchel attack. The combination of verticality, hazards, and strategic pathways truly makes this a standout map.

Main area

Xen-themed area

Death Grinder

Higher levels

Secret room

Verdict

I absolutely love this map, and it has already been added to our servers. It’s highly recommended for anyone who enjoys the classic Half-Life deathmatch experience. The only factor lowering the score is the occasional FPS drop, but apart from that, this map is superbly crafted, as expected from this talented author. I highly recommend it.