Red Cork Hat Reviews

[HBK89]

The name of the level is Playstation Home Beta it's like the real one and it would be nice if you could review it because I'm making a new free roam and I want feedback on this one so I know what I did wrong and did right
Here's the link to lbp.me
http://lbp.me/v/3bnkb8

[Cobaltor]

Can you review my level?
http://lbp.me/v/5k2md1

[hellfire]

If you could review my level in this thread here:

http://www.lbpcentral.com/forums/sho...and-remastered)

It would be much appreciated!

UPDATE: It occured to me it wasn't you who reviewed it before. So if you wouldn't mind reviewing it it'd be awesome!

Here's the lbp.me link if you don't feel like going to the thread:

http://lbp.me/v/7fwfw2

Thanks!

[Hes_A_Lop]

My level, Megaman music 2 still needs a review :3 thanks.

[DarkDedede]

Megaman 2 Music by Hes_A_Lop


Woodman. Yay!

CATEGORY: Gallery
DIFFICULTY: Simple
Last Updated: 07/Dec/2011

PRIZES:
[spoiler]Music and Stuff[/spoiler]

Summary:

This is a music gallery level. So far there is a series of four levels, displaying the soundtrack from the first four Mega Man games (NES). From what I’ve checked, the music is pretty spot on. The composer does a great interpretation of the music.

That said, I think that this gallery could be improved in areas of both interactive and usability. The design is very good, as is. However, I feel that more can be done to not only make it more user-friendly, but also make the experience much more engaging.

Strengths:

• Megaman Music
• Visual theme is loyal to the series

Weaknesses:

• Nothing else to do, besides listen to music

Nitpicks:

• Platform area in beginning seemed a bit pointless.

Why is this here?

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 3/5 ★★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 2/5 ★★

Level Design/Communication: 3/5 ★★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 3/5 ★★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 3/5 ★★★

[Level not hearted/Author hearted]

Suggestions

• I realize that you chose the teleporter area, since it is the same in the actual game, but I really wasn’t that fond of it. It would have been nice if there was some indication for which boss the teleporter took you to. It would have also been nice if there was some indication of what rooms that I’ve already been to. It would help prevent going to the same boss room twice.
• Work on ways to make the navigation easier. I would even dare to suggest scraping the teleporter room altogether. I would try to design a menu select interface, similar to the boss selection screen. You already have the assets, all that you would need is to work out the programming.
• I would do something with the black background. It would make the experience more visually engaging. Music is nice, but having something more to look at would add to the nostalgia factor.
• As for the pixel visuals, again, I realize you did it for nostalgia and all that. However, I think it would be neat if you could find a way to build each boss theme room with actual LBP materials. It would be an interesting experiment to see if you could successfully fuse the two styles. I know you put a lot of work into your pixel stickers. I just think it would really make the visuals pop if you could pull it off.
• Try to implement the controlinator so that you don’t have to use the teleporter room. For example, pressing R1 or L1 will teleport the player to the next room. Shortcuts are always a welcome addition to any navigation. This is a music gallery, after all. Try to make it work like an actual playlist. Oh, and don’t forget to label your controls so they display on screen.

Exit

[DarkDedede]

The request list has been updated. Let me know if I missed your post.

[DarkDedede]

Da Vinci's Request by spartanfan867530


Boss

CATEGORY: Story
DIFFICULTY: Medium
Last Updated: 15/Nov/2011

PRIZES:
[spoiler]The level creator calls you “stupid”[/spoiler]

Summary:

So this is a story level. At first it starts out interesting. However, as the level goes on, it really starts to loose it charm. Then the level creator says something to the effect of “and in the end, no one cared.” I’m not sure if that was the reaction he should be going for when designing a level.

Unfortunately for him, I want to care. I see potential in this level. However, smarter design choices need to be made to make sure the player experience is a pleasant and enjoyable one. Of course, stuff like that comes with experience.

Strengths:

• Rainbow Giraffe Collecting.
• Interesting implementation of ceiling swinging

Weaknesses:

• Theme could use some work.
• Story wasn’t very consistent
• The lies were a bit confusing

Nitpicks:

• I do not like groany droney Velvet Room music.
• Higginbotham dialogue was a bit out of character.

Another boss, with explosions

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 2/5 ★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 2/5 ★★

Level Design/Communication: 2/5 ★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 2/5 ★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 2/5 ★★

[Level not hearted/Author not hearted]

Suggestions

• I did like the part where you introduced the concept of ceiling swinging. It might be helpful if you had some background imagery to reinforce the concept. You know, something that doesn’t lie to your player. If you need examples, just reference the original Da Vinci levels.
• I did enjoy the theme of beginning of the the levels, I just feel that it needs a bit more character. Blank black boards are boring.
• You should focus on giving the other parts of your level the same type of visual appeal. I do like the idea of the dark part of the level, but I want to want to know what’s hiding in the dark. From what I saw there really wasn’t anything hiding.
• As you get more experience when programming in LBP2, you should seriously rethink your bosses. Of course, I’m sure you knew that already.
• Give the option to escape Da Vinci’s song. Not everyone will want to sit through that.

Let me out!

[mikemichaelmic]

Hello there DarkDedede. I would like you to review my 8-Bit Wonderland DEMO. Yes, I've had a few review of my DEMO on this website before, but I added a new score attack feature, and I would love it if you'd review my DEMO. Thanks you http://lbp.me/v/7qfbxv

[DarkDedede]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of thinning out my request queue. I'm going to give priority to those users that are active on the forums. Therefore, any request where the user that has not been active since last year will be put into the cancelled list.

Update: Inactive users have been purged from the review queue. It's all so much more bite sized and manageable now.

[Rpg Maker]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of thinning out my request queue. I'm going to give priority to those users that are active on the forums. Therefore, any request where the user that has not been active since last year will be put into the cancelled list.

Update: Inactive users have been purged from the review queue. It's all so much more bite sized and manageable now.

Good to see you are still going at this. I am curious to see what you have to say about my RPG, so Ill probably see you soon in a couple weeks. I respect honest feedback.

[DarkDedede]

Space Mini Level by jrichards16


Harvesting stuff

CATEGORY: Mini Level
DIFFICULTY: Simple
Last Updated: 11/Sept/2011

PRIZES:
[spoiler]Xavier (he’s blue)[/spoiler]

Summary:

Well it definitely wasn’t false advertising. This is a mini level. Unless I played it wrong, I finished it in a couple minutes. It’s a pretty solid concept, but it’s more of a prototype than a full level. The best part is that everything seemed to work. What the designer needs to do, moving on, is develop this idea more to add to the player experience.

Strengths:

• Interesting concept
• Everything worked

Weaknesses:

• Very short.

Nitpicks:

• Unavoidable intro

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 3/5 ★★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 2/5 ★★

Level Design/Communication: 2/5 ★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 2/5 ★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 2/5 ★★

Suggestions

• I think I’m pretty much repeating what was said in the level comments, but you really should develop the level more, in both gameplay and aethetic.
• Give the option to skip the intro. People that may play it a second time probably won’t want to sit through it all over again.
• Label your controls. That way, those of us that weren’t paying attention during the intro will have a good idea of what they’re supposed to do.
• If you are in need a some ideas, try some competitive analysis. Try out other games or LBP levels that are similar to this concept. Pay attention to what works, and what doesn’t. It may help give you the inspiration on what to work on next.

I am blue...

[sascha_winter•]

Do you review objects? If so I would like a quality review on the new mePod v.8.0

http://lbp.me/v/93kd-x

Here is a pic:

[Undarivik]

The level creator calls you “stupid"

I don't remember saying that...

Then the level creator says something to the effect of “and in the end, no one cared.”

I said that becuase no matter how good I made this, it wouuld get about 30 play tops. Also, this was made for a contest, and the person running the contest didn't even bother to update the forum with the results!

Anyways, thanks for the review. It took you awhile, but it was nice to get some feedback.

[DarkDedede]

I don't remember saying that...


I said that becuase no matter how good I made this, it wouuld get about 30 play tops. Also, this was made for a contest, and the person running the contest didn't even bother to update the forum with the results!

Anyways, thanks for the review. It took you awhile, but it was nice to get some feedback.

You said it in your prize message somewhere. I think.

As for the time it took to get to the review. That is entirely my fault. I apologize. As I said in your review, I do want to care. I am figuring out ways to get them done in a more timely manner. Feedback doesn't do anyone any good if it takes 6 months+ to get it.

[mikemichaelmic]

Hey there DarkDedede! Did you end playing my 8-Bit Wonderland DEMO? If you did, how was it?

[DarkDedede]

Christmas In Snow World!! by CATSRULE26


It’s a Wintery Wonderland!!

CATEGORY: Story
DIFFICULTY: Easy
Last Updated: 22/Dec/2011

PRIZES:
[spoiler]Two players required[/spoiler]

Summary:

I would have to admit I was pleasantly surprised with this level. The visuals were charming, and were entirely appropriate for the level, and the design was rather fun too. It really delivered in that area. It’s not too often I come across a level of this type of aesthetic charm.

My only disappointment was nothing really happened. No story, no surprises, no music to imply a change in mood. Even the ominous looking character just stood there looking ominous. It was rather like walking through a hallway full of lovely art. Sure everything looks nice, but there really isn’t much to engage the audience.

Strengths:

• Solid visuals
• Solid level design

Weaknesses:

• Where’s the beef?

Nitpicks:

• One bridge had stairs (boo), and one bridge was a ramp (yay)

Who is she? She seems interesting.

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 3/5 ★★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 3/5 ★★★

Level Design/Communication: 3/5 ★★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 4/5 ★★★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 3/5 ★★★ Keep it up!

[Level not hearted/Author not hearted]

Suggestions

• This deserves a good shot of personality. Perhaps some characters, or a story would suit it nicely. Not to say that those are necessary, but the entire experience was a bit bland. Something needs to be further developed to make sure that your audience is engaged in the experience, are are more than just witnesses to your work.
• Change up the music, depending on the area. From what I noticed, there was one song playing throughout.
• Try to keep your text boxes to a max of three lines. It makes it easier to read. I know there was only one in the level, but it is a nice habit to have.
• You may want to consider removing the text box a the beginning of the level, since you already thank everyone in the level description. It just seems a bit redundant.

[DarkDedede]

Hop to it! by Mnniska


Our adventure begins

CATEGORY: Obstacle Challenge
DIFFICULTY: Medium
Last Updated: 19/Jul/2011

PRIZES:
[spoiler]None. Boo! [/spoiler]

Summary:

Now this is a level where the designer puts a great deal of thought and effort into their craft. This is an example that shows me pretty much everything I’m looking for in a level, and ends up giving me a great engaging gameplay experience. The level has personality. The characters are interesting. The story is well developed. The pacing is superb. The designer even introduces not one, but two different gameplay mechanics, and does it quite well.

Of course, that’s not to say this level can’t be improved. It’s obvious that major parts of the level have already been well developed (concept, aesthetic, gameplay, etc). Now we can focus on polishing those key areas that need it the most. These may seem like minor nitpicks in comparison (maybe), but its this extra attention to detail that makes the gameplay experience really shine.

Now, since I now know that this designer is so capable, I hope he won’t object to me giving him plenty of things to think about, moving forward. Let’s get to the feedback.

Strengths:

• Story
• Character Design
• Personality
• Pacing
• Consistent Theme

Weaknesses:

• Some transition bugs

Nitpicks:

• Wasn’t too crazy for only having one chance to win the race.
• Lights turning on/off with layer changing was annoying.
• Camera was a bit jerky.
• Logic showing seemed a bit sloppy

...in case you didn’t notice.

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 5/5 ★★★★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 5/5 ★★★★★

Level Design/Communication: 5/5 ★★★★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 4/5 ★★★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 5/5 ★★★★★

[Level hearted/Author hearted]

Suggestions

• At the start of the level, if I hold the right direction, after the multiplayer check, I don’t fall into the next section. I end up on top of it. Fix it please
• Try to mindful of the title safe area on the screen. If your title is too close to the edges of the screen, it may not always fit on everyone’s TV screen (like it did mine).
• It might be a good idea to label your controls. Since the controls differ from the default controls, it takes a bit of time to get used to. It would be a helpful reference on screen while playing.
• Try to keep your dialogue boxes to maximum of three lines. Makes for a much easier read.
• I noticed that a lot of your logic was showing. You may want to consider replacing it with elements that better fit the scene. It may help to improve the overall aesthetic.
• The weakest part of the level was the area with the burning pillars. The design didn’t bother me, as I enjoyed the changing layout. However, the look was very blocky and standard fare. You should think of ways to make give it the same personality as the rest of the level.
• You should also put a guard rail at the start of the burning pillar area. When I first got there, I would always end up falling into the pit.
  
• The logic transitions seemed a bit too basic for this caliber of level. I would suggest thinking of some more creative transitions. Again it would help the overall aesthetic to be more fun.
• The last scene, after winning the race, was completely dark. Fix it please.
• It would be nice if there was a faster way to get through the cutscenes. The player should have the option to skip dialogue, especially if they are playing through it the second time around.
• Losing the race is no fun. However, the scene for losing was kind of meh. You should think of ways to give the losing scenario more personality. Make losing a bit more fun, if that makes sense.

Queenie should be happy that her level got such a high rating.

[DarkDedede]

Pinocchio by papanurgle123


Gepetto does his dance or darkness.

CATEGORY: Story
DIFFICULTY: Medium
Last Updated: 21/Jan/2012

PRIZES:
[spoiler]Nope[/spoiler]

Summary:

This is a rather interesting level. If I remember correctly, this level was supposed to put a dark spin on a classic Disney story. This level does put a dark spin on the story. The dialogue, especially the intro is rather charming, and the pacing is pretty good. This level is probably not suitable for the kids, as it’s not the most PEGI-friendly level.

Now, I do have one nitpick that does bother me about this level. While it’s obvious that this is a dark spin on the Pinocchio story, I really don’t see too much parallel with the Disney rendition of the the tale. It would have been interesting to see how successful the level would have been in comparison, if this detail was kept in mind. Of course, now that the contest is over, everyone can enjoy it for what it is. No comparison required.

Strengths:

• Story elements
• Cinematic elements
• Does a very good job at being dark and ominous

Weaknesses:

• Not for the kids.
• Audio quality sometimes ruined the mood.
• Some areas were too dark.

Nitpicks:

• Grabbable floors interfered with controls.
• Repetitive music became annoying

Yeah, PEGI would not approve (play the level, and you’ll know what I’m referring to).

Ratings:

Concept/Originality: 4/5 ★★★★

Gameplay/Implementation: 3/5 ★★★

Level Design/Communication: 4/5 ★★★★

Aesthetic/Presentation: 4/5 ★★★★

Ratings Explanation & Tips

OVERALL SCORE: 4/5 ★★★★

[Level not hearted/Author not hearted]

Suggestions

• The last cutscene didn’t have subtitles. Fix it please
• Be more creative with lighting. I know that the level is supposed to be dark, but the aesthetic shouldn’t hinder my ability to navigate through the level. You can still have the scene be dark, but have the player be able to see where they are going.
• Some of the areas of the level were a bit too monochromatic. Pretty much to the point where the platforms didn’t contrast with background. I really had to stare to see where the platform was, and what was the wall. Needless to say, there was a lot of falling.
• I know recorded audio quality is an issue in the game, but you really need to be careful that it doesn’t affect the experience in a negative way. If it isn’t helping you with your solution, then it is part of the problem. Therefore, you need to be creative with the limitations of the tools that you are provided to maximize the experience for your audience.
• You should consider changing up the music to help set the changing moods in the level. There’s a long repetitive section of your music that just became really grating on my nerves. Plus, having the same music though out got a bit boring.
• Some of your floors were made of grabbable materials. You should make sure to make them not grabbable, esepecially in the areas where the player needed to drag things.

[Sackgirlsrule]

Thank you so much for the helpful review and suggestions. I'd surely make the improvements that you listed but it's kinda impossible because the the thermo was full. I was gonna add a story and more characters but the thermo said "LOLNOPE!!".
Again though, thank you so much. I greatly appreciate it.

[Mnniska]

Thank you so much for that constructive review! I was thinking about giving the level a bit of an update since I finished it in a rush and this was really helpful. When you have spent so much time on something it's pretty hard to see the downsides. I'm definitely going to consider your feedback and improve the level.

Thank you so much!