Design

Where do I even begin with this map? The design is simply flawless, showcasing exceptional thought and care in every aspect. The aesthetics are captivating, with a beautifully rendered dusk sky complemented by mossy green overtones that permeate the entire map. This colour palette creates an atmospheric experience that is both visually striking and immersive. The weapon placement has been meticulously organised, ensuring a balanced gameplay experience. The map features spacious areas perfect for intense battles, alongside cleverly designed sneaky spots ideal for camping. What truly sets this map apart is its verticality and connectivity; players can traverse along rooftops within the map and use elevated pathways to link various areas. This allows for strategic opportunities to hide, escape, or ambush opponents. I can't help but detect a hint of influence from maps like op4_park or boot_camp. This lineage might explain why the map plays so brilliantly, as it embodies a similar blend of flow and tactical depth.

Gameplay

The map is notably large, which adds to its versatility. Interestingly, there is a later version of the map where the expansive battle arena was removed to create a smaller layout, but for this review, I’m focusing on the original version. Despite its size, the map performs remarkably well in one-on-one matches. It’s a map that demands skill and patience; the learning curve can be steep, but the rewards for mastery are immense. The layout offers countless opportunities for sneaking up on unsuspecting opponents and retreating from dangerous situations, making for thrilling and dynamic encounters. Even with minimal players, the map feels alive due to its thoughtful design. Its open spaces encourage bold combat, while the more confined areas cater to stealthy tactics, providing a balanced experience for players of all styles.

The Gauss area

Sniper Tower

Hiding in the rooftops

Large battle area

Linked battle area

Verdict

I cannot praise this map highly enough. It’s a masterclass in level design, blending aesthetics, gameplay, and strategy seamlessly. If I had to point out a single criticism, it would be that this map doesn’t receive the recognition or playtime it so richly deserves on servers. Santagauss, the map's creator, has contributed other maps to the community, but this feels like their magnum opus—a masterpiece where every detail reflects their dedication and talent. This map is destined to be remembered as one of the greatest ever created for Half-Life, a true piece of art in the modding world.