Kangaroo Pack - Discussion

[Ihavenoname248]

Restrictions (#7): I discussed potential speed tricks on this level with Shane, and discovered that it's possible to switch 'stations' without dropping the teeth a row. That actually cuts down on tedium here and allows for some creative re-ordering, but ultimately the level falls victim to being a figure out the order level that limits exploration.

Seven Layer Salad (#12): This is one of those levels I really should like more than I do. There's a lot of clever little interactions here, but when I first played it I gave it a resounding "meh". Having optimized NSG now, I gained some appreciation for this level (and lost some for Boldercrap) but I still don't really have strong feelings one way or the other on its final inclusion. (Don't make me re-execute my 369 route please... )

Unravel (#14):

#14 (Unravel): I've said my peace about levels with hidden complex mechanisms and ultra-rigid paths to walk in CCLPs. This level is ultimately more clever than, say, The Genie Lamp, but it still falls into that category for me.

As the designer, I can sort of see the comparison to The Genie Lamp here. After all, both levels are controlled by teeth outside of the players view. However, The Genie Lamp requires the player to deduce what the mechanism is, while Unravel doesn't care. The level practically solves itself! That being said, I can see the complaint about the rigidity of the path, but I'd still be heavily in favor of this level just because I still don't think I've seen anything else quite like it. Unravel might not have much replay value, but neither did Frozen in Time.

Ratchet (#15): This feels more rigid than Unravel while trying to pretend it's not.

The Illuminati (#23): Now that's a clever subversion.

Light the Way (#27): CCLP4 will need an invisible wall themed level, probably at least one. If we're going with an invisible wall maze, this has my vote- it feels like an iteration of the Vanishing Act concept without ripping it off, and it's surprisingly difficult to do that for pretty much any concept!

Rejected (#30): Though I may not like the random force floors much here, I do enjoy these small challenges mixed in with a clever partial posting mechanism. The Incredible Flaming Teleporting Butler was probably slightly inspired by this, looking back.

Conjuction Conniption (#33): So we have a recessed wall navigation challenge where you can't see the entire structure for the imperfections that make it possible, and some annoying dodging. Not a fan of this combination. (also, it's spelled conjuNction)

Photopia (#44): I just solved this the intended way, as opposed to using the 'bridge through the water' bust. It's okay I guess- there's not really anything terribly interesting here for me.

Favorite level: Bisection (#11)

Least favorite: Conjuction Conniption (#33)