Author: Helioth

Released: [No data]

Download: http://www.doomworld.com/idgames/index.php?id=11816
(Note: links to Archive page)

I followed a link to this map from the NewDoom forum. Now I wish I hadn't. The first warning sign was a text file that seems to be written in code. I ignored it and downloaded the map eager to blow Caesar's brains out.

The second and third warning signs came together when I started the map. A reedy pipe tune started screeching from my speakers to rape me through the ears. The author's name has been thoughtfully included as a scrolling wall texture; nothing says class more than a giant name rotating around the room.

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Difficulty: Easy (UV)

Veterans will tear through it in three minutes. A large battle halfway through is the only challenge this map offers. There is too much ammo lying around for you to be worried. You can let the monsters take care of themselves or simply avoid them altogether. There is no climactic battle against Caesar or anyone else. It's surprisingly easy for a small map with so many monsters.

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Gameplay: Poor

I must continue to lambast the horrible music. It sounds like something you'd hear in a lift or a supermarket. Not exactly the stirring warrior's anthem you would expect. The replacement sound effects are also old. The shotgun and Hell Barons sound a lot better. The zombies sound naff.

Basically we have another point and shoot map overloaded with weapons which does us the indignity of pretending to be something better. The confusing story is that you must kill some bloke and then do something with (or to) Caesar. Nothing like this happens in the level. I was psyched up to kick Caesar's arse and I am bitter that the skirt-wearing nancy never turned up.

A couple of secret areas are present. Find them or don't. Nobody will really care.

Recommendation: Avoid.

Highlights: None.

Lowlights: Very old school, with Imps up on the walls firing down while you battle Barons. Too easy. Terrible music.

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Aesthetics: Poor

Remember those early wads with the green forest sky and crap music? Download this and brace yourself for the heady rush of nostalgia. The author has had a go at making the map look attractive and it's clear you are supposed to be in an old arena. Unfortunately that is where the praise ends.

Lots of old textures seen in wads produced throughout the Nineties are placed in the corridor areas. These are so hideously out of place I can't describe it. I believe they are meant to look like Roman gods. They look like space aliens.

Points for effort, but it really isn't attractive at all.

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Overall Score: 3/10

Pros:
- None.

Cons:
- Too old fashioned.
- Too easy.
- That bloody music!