Insite Review Schema
The Insite review schema is based on what we call "descriptors." Each score
has an allocated description of what a map with that rating should be. It
should also be noted that the score out of 10 is an informal 50/50 split
between AVA (see below) and gameplay. So a map that has absolutely stunning
visuals but is unplayable can only get a maximum score of 5 and vice versa. No
splitting up of scores (lighting, textures, flow, etc.) will be provided. Such
details will be addressed in the review and reflected in the score. Half
marks (0.5) indicate the map fits somewhere in between two descriptors.
Remember, reviews are naught but opinions. What we say is not the final word
in whether a map is good or not. I know we make it seem like that with our slogan
of "the bottom line on Unreal level design," but that's just for show. The score
a reviewer gives a map is a mark of his own personal feelings toward it, and, of
course, your own likes and dislikes may sometimes severely disagree with what the
reviewer has said about and scored a map.
Note: There may be instances where the difference between a map's
quality of AVA and gameplay is so different that the score awarded doesn't
properly fit any descriptor. In such cases, the reviewer will point this out.
The Descriptors
| 10 |
= |
Perfect map. I don't believe there has been or ever will be one of
these, but you can always hope for the best. =D
|
| 9 |
= |
This is an excellent map. It has astounding gameplay complemented by
equalling astounding AVA. This is a must-download map!
|
| 8 |
= |
This map displays a high level of competence with the Editor. No
rough edges present, and detail in both AVA and gameplay is duly
addressed and perhaps excellent in one of those fields.
|
| 7 |
= |
A very good map. This level may have great atmosphere or gameplay
but possibly not in both these areas. This map deserves a spot on
your hard drive.
|
| 6 |
= |
A good map where the author is obviously competent in the Editor.
Gameplay and AVA are decent but the map overall is lacking that
something that yells "Ownage!"
|
| 5 |
= |
An average map that is worth a look. The author may require some
refinement in the technical side of the Editor, whether this is in
the field of gameplay or AVA.
|
| 4 |
= |
A below-average map (though how much remains open) that lacks in
both gameplay and AVA. There is much room for improvement, but it is
not a total waste of space by any means.
|
| 0-3 |
= |
You won't see this low a score at Insite because we won't review maps
of this standard. We feel a map with a score this low was not ready
to be released to the public and that it's not worth the time and effort
of neither our reviewers nor our readers to pay it much attention. A
3.5 is as low as we'll go for the sake of everyone's sanity.
|
Wondering exactly what gameplay and AVA entails? There are other things
involved, but these are just a few things to give you an idea. One thing to
remember in making a good map is knowing the Editor back to front. You're not
going to fair very well if you struggle to align textures, brushes, and simply
just light up the level so you can see.
AVA - Atmosphere, Visuals, and Aesthetics
- Lighting - Is the place simply lit or has there been careful thought to add
to the atmosphere? Are the lights sourced properly? Does the lighting look and
feel realistic?
- Texturing - Is it good or done poorly? Do things look natural? What about
extra features like trim and other detail?
- Audio - Music and sound effects... How are they used to further the
atmosphere?
- Atmosphere - This is a broad term that is the result of good use of
lighting, textures, audio, etc. Essentially, does the map give you a sense of
"being somewhere" or do you simply feel as though you're playing a map?
Gameplay
- Bot Play - There are many offline players out there... How are those bots
performing?
- Flow and Layout - What physical qualities about the map make it good and
fun to play?
- Map Strategy - Does the map promote a wide range of playing skills,
natures, abilities, and approaches?
- Suitability - If it's a CTF map, does it promote teamwork to capture?
- Item Placement - Weapons, pickups, and vehicles... Are they just strewn
about randomly or was thought put behind their placements?
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