ns2_narrows

I've been wanting to make a NS2 map for quite some time now; but I didn't want to just jump in with no plan and end up with an unfinished level after a week or two. So, I went to the drawing board to see what I could come up with - if anything at all - and after a week of brainstorming I finally have myself an idea that I want to move forward with. I'm really excited about this, it's going to be a challenging project that will hopefully end with a fun and balanced map for the community. And I say project here intentionally because there are quite a few things I want to do with this level that one might call "extracurricular". Sorry, I'm not trying to be secretive, a ton of details still need to be sorted out before they're even worth mentioning!

But anyway, on to the stuff I can talk about.

First, the layout itself:



This is the most basic layout of what I have in mind, and it will probably change (again). Currently there are 11 RT's and 4 TP's, which is exactly two more RT's than I want given that there are really only two other Tech Points beside the Marine and Alien spawn. I'm not necessarily dead set on having only 4 TP's, but at this current moment ns2_narrows is being planned as a medium sized map. This may change in the future.

Here are some general details about ns2_narrows:

• I want navigation to be intuitive, but not simple. The environment cues needs to be as effective as the mini-map (more on that later).
• The outskirts of the map are long and spaced out but gets short and claustrophobic as you move toward the center. Hoping this results in lane control type style or flow.
• Exits/entrances to be clearly visible. Visual noise kept to a minimum.
• Brighter map, slightly more colorful (no orange...)
• Elevation to be a theme (more on that later)

Note: this entire map and all the ideas I've come up with so far will only happen if they make the map more fun. Anything that doesn't work gets the axe, especially with regards to the design. A solid foundation (read balanced/fun) is first and foremost, everything else is secondary.

Finally here is the road-map, it will help me stay focused moving forward.

• Design: Nail down the layout of ns2_narrows
• Testing: Start grey-boxing and playtesting
• Finalize: Design and layout.
• Style: Concept ns2_narrows visual style, colors, lighting, and art
• Create: Custom materials and props based on concept
• Finalize: Publish map!

Thanks for reading! I'll be sure to update this thread as much as I can.