Assessing the greybox build.

NOTE/ Due to the number of screen shots this is a fairly large post.

First thing to note, is that i have left the roof off at this stage. This was more of a practical matter than anything else, it helped when navigating the camera around the level and also left a natural light source which illuminated the level, as i had not yet gone through and added lights.

Shot of the whole level. Can get an idea of the length of the map compared to the width, also it is a good view from which to see all the various routes between each base.

Here is a shot of the lower base. It is themed as a library, wooden panelled walls and bookcases along the walls.To the right is the main exit out into the atrium. The partition in the middle ended up being a series of bookcases which i exported out from 3dsMax. To the left is where the ship ends, and players can see out across space. Ive had a look at how to set up space sky domes and create the illusion of space, but more on that in a later post.

Shot of the main staircase leading up to the first floor. When playing this grey box with bots, this proved to be a key area of the map as it is the direct link between each base. This provided a good area to place a powerful pickup, such as armour or the rocket launcher.

Shot looking the other way, from the top floor vantage point. This is directly outside the top base and offers a space for them to look out over the oncoming enemy. Although it does not allow them to cover both of the side paths which means the enemy can still get in around them.

Top floor vantage points. There are one of these on both sides of the map, and are equally accessible by both teams. If both controlled they can be pivotal in the outcome of the match as they cover virtually the whole middle space of the map, and only have one entrance to watch out for 'intruders'. Although it is vulnerable to opposing team members on the other platform.

Again, one on each side, these are the vantage points for the lower team, Situated just outside thier base they offer a good view of the enemy base and the opposite teams high vantage point. Also as you can see from looking down to the left it provides a useful route around the back of the enemys base. This isnt just one big corridor though and is split uo with gaps in the partition wall and access to stairs to the top floor on the right which isnt visible in this shot.

From the other end of this corridor the other team can protect thier flanks, although they cannot cover the opposite corridor from this position. Also they opponent may choose to take the stairs up and over the head of the player defending in this position.

Stairwell leading down from the top floor, all the way down to the ground floor. One of these on each side of the map means routes which can get the player close to the opposite base without being seen.

The top base. The flag will be positioned at the top of the stairs. To the left is a window looking out across the space landscape.

From the back of this base, there is no direct line of sight directly to the opposite bases flag. This stops players from 'camping' and gathering  kills from a distance.