Paths – Reviewing Levelhead levels

“Light Bridge!!!” by Noob Jr

f506z20 | “Light Bridge!!!” by Noob Jr @2sjrkc | Casual, Clever, Paths

Edit: The author has made some changed based on feedback

I found this to be a nice simple level. The overall design makes good use of backdrop and decorations to create multiple different areas. There are regular checkpoints, and given the lack of ways to die, the level is pretty forgiving. I think it’s great looking overall.

I think there are a couple of changes that could make this level really enjoyable. First, I would make the decorative flashes a lot slower, probably 4 times slower. I was having a lot of difficulty orienting myself at the start of the level, but this wasn’t an issue once I got going. I’d also see if there are any good ways to have an escalating sense of difficulty throughout the level. By expierment with gap distance and possibly some hazards, you could have each section get more difficult than the last, building the player engagement.

Finally, I would continue the theme of a score route and a speed route, which I really enjoy. The use of hidden areas and by making some jems more difficult to reach could really enhance that. You could also have a few level skips that are really difficult to use, such as a spring jump with spikes to avoid, that could give a super short route for really skilled players.

Overall a really great second level!

Diver Excursion, Down Under by Retro Banana Man NL

px034xt | “Diver Excursion, Down Under” by Retro Banana Man NL | Panic Moments, Paths, Secrets

This level is a really interesting take on a theme. The idea of being underwater is apparent from the title and the overall look. The most interesting piece was the jems on tracks, looking like they are floating through the water. I found this level to be simple, challenging, and enjoyable. Really creative idea.

Bomb Away! Bomb Away! by Ps7cho

52d6kj4 | “Bomb Away! Bomb Away!” by Ps7cho @xppvz7 | Bombs, Paths, Clever

This is an incredible engaging, inventive and challenging level. It feels like you are in charge of this little ship trying to fire at all the enemy combatants. It’s easy to start, with but quite difficult to get all of the bad guys. I also enjoyed the ending for how you get out of your ship.

My only recommendation for improvement would be to have a monster gate or two in visible range at the beginning. I assumed I needed to kill all the bad guys, but wasn’t entirely sure until the end.

Musical Clock Switch by Block

I need to come back to this later and beat it but I can tell it’s really well done. Good use of layout and decoration to making it feel like a living world. I love the jems at the top taunting me and providing optional challenge. I like that the rooms are small so I can focus on a tiny portion and then take a break. I would love a check point right before those swoopadoops, they are evil pests. The music part is so cool. It makes it much easier for me to get the timing down and it sounds very ominous. Also I was expecting it to be the same loop over and over again, so when another instrument comes in, it’s a delightful surprise. Favorited so I can give it another go later.