Special/Analog/Sequel Levels in CCLP4

[Ihavenoname248]

Level 1: We have 2 first levels as tutorials, one as a throwback and another as a trial by fire. CCLP4 doesn't need lessons-the easier levels should ease in and anyone who needs the mechanical knowledge will probably start with CCLP1. I'm not a huge fan of leading with a throwback, and Entrance Examination is...harsh for a first level, especially with what follows it. And yet, a good first level will stand out on its own as well. My own Molecule, Rock's One Sided Trench, J.B.'s Proving Grounds, Josh's State of the Art or An Exit to Remember would all be solid introductory candidates, for different reasons. I'd lean away from Proving Grounds as a level 1, though, due to its length. It would definitely be a good fit for early in the set in spite of this.

Cypher level: My own personal leaning is to avert the tradition of having letters within the level and instead use a 'secret hint' of sorts, preferably hidden both in how you reach it and that it even exists! At first glance this would make level 34 seem to break the trend of being a cypher level but in actuality, it's putting another new spin on it. CC1 had the letters just there, as did CCLP1 much later, CCLP2 had a single password formed by the act of solving, and CCLP3 traced the letters with monster paths. Why not go somewhere new?

Level 131: I also like the idea of level 131 taking something that seems obvious about the game and subverting it, much like Easier than It Looks did in CCLP1. Time Bomb and Mental Blocks both required some lateral thinking, so I think ideally a 131 candidate meets both of these: subversions and lateral thinking. I can't think of a perfect example of this off the top of my head, but J.B.'s Exit Wounds, Ida's Lean Thinking or even Andrew's Chasing a Dream/What's Wrong with This Puzzle would work well. For a 'simpler than it appears' type of level, my own Data Expunged fits well.

On looking through sets for 144 candidates, I remembered I Wanna Be the Bit Buster exists. That is a perfect fit if you want to play up the 'unfair' side of things.

Level 144: Now this is a slot that has some tough levels to compete with- Fireflies is nothing special, but Wormwood is quite cool, YCTaOFNT is an amazing level to work on solving and The Ancient Temple is one of the best levels from CCLP1. I'd lean more towards the Ancient Temple side of the spectrum, personally. One Tank's Adventure, Monorail, or The Key Issue come to mind.

Level 147: Color Coordination, if not already used elsewhere/other harder levels don't do well. This really needs to be included though.

Level 149: Mr. McCallahan Presents is still my absolute favorite CC level. For this slot I'd really like to see my own take on the idea- Subconscious (level 144 of UC4) for blending together concepts from the four official sets prior. The other level 149s all felt somewhat lackluster to me, mostly being sokobans. For a non-prior set homage, maybe Tyler's Gimmick Isle or J.B.'s Japanese Game Show.

Other 'sequels': If they happen they happen and if they don't they don't.

These are my own personal opinions and as such should not be taken as a statement of what the set will be or necessarily reflect the views of the CCLP4 Staff^TM