Map needs further review

[rmcollins3]

I'd like to get a little more feedback on my first CTF map, Thermal. Let me know what you think. Thanks.

Rob
http://www.planetunreal.com/dl/nc.asp?nalicity/utctf/ctf-thermal.zip

[Clanless][]

Okay, I'll take this opportunity to check it out...Cant figure out how to select actors inside the mover brush in UEd2 yet.
Starting UT now. Oh and be warned - My receivers in the shop so I cant critique your ambient sounds.

[Clanless][]

Ok time for my review:

Layout: Not too shabby. I like the little eruption that occurs when you grab the redeemer, makes it a tad more dangerous.
Bases are asymmetrical. Good. We need more non 2forts. They look somewhat balanced, and there is no vast difference between the items in either.

Architecture + texturing: Heres where it starts getting sloppy. Natural caves are quite hard to reproduce with UnrealEd. If they are done correctly, the map is spectacular. (Eternal Caves) Unfortunately this map is just some cubes & other geometric shapes carved out with rock textures. The wooden platforming needs some work too. Instead of the same texture all around it, try using some of the moulding textures that are included. NaliCast.utx has some good ones like the metal bar thingy with the spikes. You'll know what I'm talking about :)
The outside area also needs work. The skybox is perfect, but the canyon is just an octagon with rock textures. At least crank up the scale on them so it is less easy to spot repeats, but I'd recommend throwing some more shapes in there to make it look more 'canyony'. Also, instead of having lava right below you, lower that jit down! Make em fall a while before they combust...gives a better atmosphere, and land bridges look neater.
If you do lower it down, put some orangish volumetric fog to make it look cool :)
Lighting: This is the worst point of the map. The torches are all there, flames are correctly placed, etc. but it looks as though there is just a huge light that goes thru walls making the whole thing bleached. Use individual lights to make it look natural. Make lava glow nice n red. Shadows look cool.
Fun: This map has the potential to be a nice fragfest. offers some good ambush points and open duels. The lighting doesnt do much for camper spots, however...

Overall, its a nice map. I'm looking forward to whatever map you are making next...I'm actually kinda amazed at how my mapping skillz increase every map I make :)

http://www.homestead.com/clanlesss/files/clanless.gif