Lemon
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.
