Anwynn by Steamteck

Large level with lots of open plains and cave systems to explore plus a non-linear design.

Anwynn is similar to Steamteck’s previous level, Valley of Storn; it features large open areas and a few cave systems to explore. As I said above, the level seems to have a non-linear design where you can basically fly anywhere in the level rather than having to follow a strict path. This approach makes you explore every part of the map, which is worth it, as you need to collect various items that will help you defeat the boss.

The level is backed by a plot whereby the death mage, Arawn, has taken over the land of Anwynn and captured the seaport which is now overrun with Orcs. The local wizard has sought Rynn and Arokh’s help to defeat Arawn and return the land back to human control.

You start the game in the wizard’s house, which is in the far corner of the map, Arokh waits outside but unfortunately, he roasts the wizard’s son who is chopping wood for the fire. I also noticed that he kills the yaks that follow you. This isn’t a big problem but it seemed silly that Arokh kills the people who he and Rynn are helping!

This is also where you notice the level’s main bug, which is fairly serious, and I’m sure it could be fixed easily – the sky is black but the fog is white, it looked really weird. This became even more apparent when you went underwater; when you play the level you will see what I mean.

Putting the bugs aside (these are the only two I noticed BTW), the level is well thought out and features cool additions such as the underwater ruins in the marsh and realistic locations of villages and collectable items as in ‘Valley of Storn’. You even get to save the human prisoners who are awaiting execution! One thing worth mentioning, if you lead them outside, Arokh will kill them so just set them free.

Level architecture is good, with large open plains with a farmhouse or two dotted around and rolling hills and valleys to fly around in. It’s always worth exploring these open areas because you will find something that will help you on your way but be vigilant! Towns and villages are placed in likely places rather than stuck in the middle of nowhere. They are also laid out like a typical medieval village with the general amenities you would find there.

New weapons and modified enemies make an appearance and only certain weapons will kill certain enemies, so don’t throw anything away that seems more than your average run of the mill weapon. The guardian skeletal dragon was brilliant, he was difficult to kill…

One thing I also noticed is that the level doesn’t have an ending and the bosses are spread out. At one point I thought I had completed the game but when I flew around a bit more, I found that there was a lot more to the level. Tip: find the seaport.

Overall, this level is well worth a download – it will keep you entertained for a couple of hours or more and the things mentioned above will keep you engrossed and not wanting to switch off your PC until you have finished it.

Update: 10/05/00 The level has been resubmitted and the white fog bug has been fixed so download the latest version from Surreal-news.com. 

Rating; Architecture / landscape: 7.5  Texturing: 6.5  Item / enemy placement: 7  

Atmosphere: 9  Coolness / new ideas / enhancements: 7  bugs: few non serious