Matrix

Matrix (in no way related to that epic film- seek a definition for help) is a symmetrical CTF map intended for intense Multi Flag matches.

The bases themselves are very simple yet effective. There is a large walkway covering the stairs (which one must use to obtain the flag on the balcony) as well as the front courtyard of the base with a tactical Machine Gun Turret. There is a bubble shield and Battle Rifle . It is not difficult to get to the enemy's base; it is as simple as walking down the tunnel (with a Trip Mine) or over the central bridge (with a Power Drain) to get there. In order to balance this close proximity, I did three things. Firstly I made the flags spawn on the balcony section (next to a BR), which can only be got to via the stairs or walkway. This forces player into a minor bottleneck, making it easier to defend (although far from impossible to attack, as there is a back door through the pipes). Secondly, I placed all the weapons and equipment that could help a team in the centre of the map, creating the need to stray from the strongholds. Thirdly, I placed a Ghost and Gauss Warthog in the courtyard of each team's base, allowing for an assault to be carried out with some firepower. The flag return point is inside the window box, next to a one way node that links to the bowels of the map.

The centre of the level is constructed in a cross shape, with 4 levels (5 if you count the roof). There is a crawlspace on the very base of the centre, with an active camouflage as an incentive. Two levels up sits a rocket launcher and above it a Spartan Laser. This higher floor can be accessed via the lifts on either side or the connecting bridge from both bases. If a player chooses to launch him/herself up the lift, they will be able to move through to the rear of the map (after a short journey through a tunnel containing a Needler) where there is a overshield in between two rotated Fence Boxes, which have a two way teleporter linking to each other. There are some crates and barrels to provide access to the top of the map and provide cover for shoot outs. Beyond the overshield lies a bridge with a sword at the end (in the open, making easy pickings for those with BRs). Below the cages are two small areas clustered with varying small scenic pieces. It is here that the one way teleportees are sent, as well as the respawn when the flag is away (giving teams instant access to some power weapons to aid in their reclaim of their flag).

Of course, pictures speak a thousand words. Here are some annotated screenshots followed by a convenient list of weapons and equipment.

Overview of the map (especially the Fence Boxes)

Courtyard (Base B)

Top levels centre alley

Base A

One way exit (Team A)

One way exit (Team B)

Crawl space (difficult to photo)

The bridge and sword

Weapons (NB, I would have placed more but I ran out of money, I'd love to know where it all goes):

Battle Rifle - 4
Needler - 2
Brute Shot - 1
Rocket Launcher - 1
Spartan Laser - 1
Energy Sword - 1
Mauler - 1

Vehicles:

Ghost - 2
Gauss Warthog - 2

Equipment:

Plasma Grenade - 5
Spike Grenade - 4
Bubble Shield - 2
Power Drain - 1
Trip Mine - 1
Overshield - 1
Active Camouflage - 1

This is my first competitive map that I've posted. It is designed as a playlist type map, as in something to play serious games on. It was designed solely for CTF (and assault at a pinch) but can support all gametypes. Please give me feedback.

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