News: Map release: 5 new maps

05/10/17 - 05:56:56

Written by: SadPuppy

Comments: 17

Let's face it- mpbhops is a terrific plugin and makes life a lot easier for multiple players to co-exist on a public server. But as far as its hindrances go, it definitely has restricted some serious mapper innovation over the years when considering this as a factor toward a map's potential for creativity. That was all thrown out the window here, and the concept of moving blocks to aide map progression finally has a place back in the ranks. Enjoy this slightly-difficult, yet totally-fun adaptation which calls to mind inspiration from other technique maps such as kz_radium and many more.

A huge open-world map from Spider1 isn't just unsurprising at this point, its almost completely expected. Two main sections to this map, with the 2nd area being the larger- this map noticeabley has a ton in common with hb_fyksen. A long but fun climb, mostly cliff-style, with a few key risk point's throughout. Best to learn the map with a check-run first.. unless you're feeling daring.

We don't always see Bhop maps from Spider1, but when we do, its an exciting day! A bit on the challenging side here, but still loads of fun nonetheless. Rope ladders, duck-unders, strafe-arounds, you name it. Spider1 kept it interesting, that's for sure- and the environment is rather enjoyable as well. The world appears to be based in some sort of lava-ravine, and you'd imagine escape upwards to the surface would be in your best interest. The nice lighting, colors and textures are enough to keep the jumper engrossed the whole way.

Nothing too exciting in the texture department here. Unfortunately these are some of the more recycled textures in the world of kreedz-based maps, and the lighting is also nothing to write home about. But at least the map brings to the table a sense of individuality when it comes to the jumps within. A touch past the advanced skill level should be required to complete the map- even with checks. Mostly safe, block-like sections, but again another map with high risk points in transitional and connecting areas. Medium in length, it should present a nice challenge for some of our better demo recorders.

This mapper seems to be evolving in such a short time. Already we are seeing better textures and lighting as well as jump concepts. The jumps are approximately the same difficulty as his last map, but certainly more entertaining and addicting. This is what the XJ Map Team likes to see from a mapper; progression and improvement. Not an extremely long map, but one which will certainly take a few attempts to learn all of the techniques.

Thanks to Fantasm for the map descriptions,
and Ovidiu Dumitru for having my back and checking maps with me!

News: Map release: 2 new maps

10/09/17 - 15:37:39

Written by: SadPuppy

Comments: 19

It seems like everyone's favorite choice of climbing style these days is speed-heavy, or maps where the jumps don't have to be bhopped, but easily can be for combo's that deliver a fast progression through the map. CiNdOR^ delivers here on exactly that type of map. A very beautiful floating-in-the-sky mountain theme where the windy sound ambiance lets you know just how much is at stake if you fall. We can always count on CiNdOR^ to deliver the goods when it comes to detail and visuals in his maps and they are present throughout this one, which has a nice balance of both a cliff and block-style jump path. This is the type of map that inspires certain players to come out of retirement, so get ready for some competitive demos!

The purpose of the steep up-slide at the start button seems to be a warning to novice jumpers that “this map is not for you.” A short map in terms of the number of jumps within, but one which quickly turns into a long map due to the number of attempts needed to succeed in each area. Be prepared- there will be fails. Not to worry though, the soft purple lighting and the calming choice of music by the mappers somehow seems to be enough to hold back the frustration of not being able to land your jumps. Another precision map added to our rotation with fingers crossed in hopes for a completion.

Thanks to Fantasm for the map descriptions!