Dragon
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.
