Review #3 - DB-Zodiac

[Armagon]

I decided it was time to get off my arse, and to write another review. I now present to you DB-Zodiac by Monkeybone. This one is certainly different, and as a lot of you would probably know by now, I like maps that are different. Read on.

Screenshots
http://www.gameservers.net/newsimages/1069440329.jpg
http://www.gameservers.net/newsimages/1069440280.jpg

So what's the map like?
If I had to sum this map up in one word, it would probably be madness. This map is pure madness. Let me tell you now, this is by no means, a bad thing. On the contrary, that's exactly what sets it apart from so many other DB maps.

The map is cube shaped, pretty normal for DB maps. However, instead of walls there is a laser grid surrounding the entire field. These deflect the ball the same way any wall would, but they do NOT block players. It is possible to knock other players outside the field to leave them to fall to their deaths. This makes for some insane gameplay, not to mention, some insane fun.

Another unique feature is the ability to temporarily lower the gravity. This is done by shooting the ball into the hoop that is up in the air. The low gravity lasts about 10 seconds, enough time to set yourself up for a shot. Keepers have to be very careful when low gravity is on, because if they jump or dodge too early, it can leave the goals completely exposed to shooters. This makes it important that there is always at least ONE defender, because otherwise the keeper is going to have a very hard time saving shots.

Visually the map is nice. Textures are well lined up, and the skybox is just spinny. It all works very well together.

I found it was nice and light on the framerate, so lower spec systems should be alright when playing this map.

Pros
- Looks good.
- Runs well.
- Insane fun when you have 8-10 people playing.

Cons
- When low gravity is switched on, perhaps the gravity is a bit too low?

Overall
Graphics 7/10
Gameplay 7/10

I doubt many of you would want to play this as a league map, but it is a lot of fun for pubs.
Well worth a look if you've got the time.

I regret to inform you that for the time-being you will be unable to download DB-Zodiac individually, as I was the only person hosting the file and my webspace is down at the moment. If you would still like to see the map, you can download the Deathball Ownage Map Pack #2, which it successfully got voted into. I apologize if this inconveniences anyone.

[beefsack]

props to beefsack for his gravity volume