Yug'rin 4: The Battle of Rodia
Mission Type:
Author:
Post Date:
Download:
David McHale
December 15, 1998
Level Review
Basics
Reviewer:
Overall Score:
Date Reviewed:
Antilles
70 / 100
December 15, 1998
Design:
Dynamics:
Experience:
60 / 100
60 / 100
80 / 100
First Impressions
The final level of the Yugrin series has arrived. An interesting level, though short. Read on for the full review.
Review Screenshot 1
Review Screenshot 2
Design / Visuals
Level architecture in Yug'rin IV was not spectacular, yet it was not wholly poor either. Typical of the Yug'rin series, the indoor architecture is a bit boxy, but the level was fun. There weren't a whole lot of details such as beams and sloped surfaces, but enough so that the level wasn't incredibly dull. I really liked the trees; they made the outdoor areas look really good. The ground was also sloped and varied, so that also contributed to the nice look. The indoor areas as I mentioned, are where the architecture got boxy; every wall was perfectly vertical, and the steps were too big. There was also a lack of steps and ramps, which help to make levels realistic and interesting. You'd be surprised what a little elevation change can do for a level; it makes it seem more real and eye catching. Textures can also make a level or break a level, and fortunately Yug'rin IV had a generally fair texture job. I liked the choices, for they complemented each other nicely for the most part. I didn't notice many places where they didn't match up, and there was a pretty good variety.
Dynamics / Interactivity
Enemy placement in Yug'rin IV was average. In the beginning, there is a large Imperial force right in front of you. There were, however, friendly forces consisting of rail detonator toting Wookies and Rebel soldiers, which I thought was cool. The level turned difficult fast when you had to take out a Dark Trooper single handedly. I admit, I played it many times before I could beat this deadly warrior. I feel it was almost too difficult, and later in the level, you face two more as well as gobs of stormtroopers. You do have more Rebel troops to help, but it can still be pretty difficult. Either less stormtroopers, or the Dark Troopers need to be toned down a little, because the area can be aggravating if the DTs go after you. It wasn't impossible, just a little irritating. The boss at the end of the level was a bit difficult as well. Item placement was worthy of praise, for I had enough ammo and shields. After you fight the DT, you're bound to be a bit low on shields, but there's a shield super charge waiting for you. Also, there are Bacta tanks and energy cells available during the level, as well as med kits and power cells. I wasn't quite as impressed with the COGs like I was with the other Yug'rin missions, but they were still fair in this level. There were a couple of elevators, a few doors and a generator, but not too much else. I was really impressed with the opening cut scene however. The cut scenes have always been good in this series, but the lack of supporting COGs in this level brought down the score a little. Slash grates and button doors also made appearances, but overall, enhancement was slightly lacking.
Playing Experience / Atmosphere
It was fun to play this level, and it was interesting to have someone on your side, helping you out. The level was a little too short, and I wish it were longer. If the base were enlarged, you'd have some places to explore before you beat the level. None of the levels these days let you go anywhere except where you must go to complete the objectives. This makes me unhappy because one of my favorite things to do while I play JK or MotS is to explore. Gameplay was good except for a fairly large slowdown in the frame rate in one area.
Review Screenshot 3
Review Screenshot 4
Final Thoughts
I thought this level was decent, but it still use some work. It would be a whole lot better if it were bigger, with more places to explore. Also, the architecture was a little weak, and everything would look so much better if there was a little more attention to detail. I'd like to see the author take a while and make a really, really good level instead of pumping out these small, slightly plain ones. Still, download Yug'rin IV now, it's worth it.
Design:
Dynamics:
Experience:
60 / 100
60 / 100
80 / 100
Overall:
70