Introduction
For this project i wanted to challenge my skills in Level Design and do something i've never done before. A multiplayer FPS map with a simple layout that is easy to learn.
Overview
Project Details
- 2 weeks full time (5 hours/day)
- Created using CS:GO SDK (Hammer)
- Current state - Blockout
- Focus on simplicity
- Playable on Keyboard
- You can download and test Peaceful on the Steam Workshop.
Difficulties encountered
- Creating an intuitive layout
- Balance the map for Terrorists and CTs
- Playtesting to 10
Overview
Bombsite A
Bombsite B
Mid
CT Spawn
T Spawn
Technical Designs
Layout
When I thought about the layout of the map, I wanted to give good options to the Terrorists to be able to attack and have more map control.
On the other hand so that it would not be too strong and the Counter Terrorist could defend, I gave them some height. Whether it's at the Mid, 2nd Mid, the window at A or the elevated platform at B.
Choke points
A map with a good number of choke points is essential, it allows to have a good attack strategy for the Terrorists. And a good defense strategy for the Counter Terrorists to not be overwhelmed by a team of 5.
Originally I had planned a map with 4 choke points, but with several playtests and feedbacks received. The B site was quite hard to take, so to help the Terrorists I put a corridor in height that gives visions on the site. But, that is very exposed and can be deadly.
Retakes
When the Terrorists take control of a site and plant the bomb, it is quite important for the CTs to have several options to take back the site and defuse the bomb.
For this I made sure that each site entrance has a shortcut.
To retake site B, the shortest way is to go through the Mid. However the CTs can go through the side of the Terrorists to overpower them and surround them.
To retake site A, the same way is used, except that the one who controls the 2nd Mid has the window that gives onto the site and offers a considerable tactical advantage.
Retake A
Retake B
Iterations
Overall
Unfortunately I didn't have the chance to do full 5vs5 playtests, but that didn't stop me from getting good feedbacks and being able to iterate.
From V0.1 to the map of now I have added / shortened / modified a lot of path to make the navigation simple and intuitive.
From V0.1 to the map of now I have added / shortened / modified a lot of path to make the navigation simple and intuitive.
A Site
For the site A I iterated a lot, on the doors as well as the window which gives on the site, same for the arrival on the site since the side of the CTs.
B Site
The site B has been well modified compared to V0.1, I added a corridor in height for the Terrorists, I also changed a little B room. The platform in height for the defender as well as the way to enter the site by B short.
Mid & 2nd Mid
The Mid is the one that was iterated the most times, I could not find a good balance between the height of the CTs and the Terrorist below.
With this final design. Several possible paths with cover for the Terrorists and height and a very clear sightline for the CTs.
For the 2nd Mid, this one was not changed very much, I found that it brought a nice option of rotation and map control without being too strong because it is quite narrow and with a smoke grenade or a molotov it is quite easy to delay or prevent an attack.
1st Idea
V0.1
Final
1st Iteration
Bombsite A
Bombsite B
Mid
CT Spawn
T Spawn
Learnings
With each project I do and each map I create, I always learn more. I can't wait to take this newly acquired knowledge and put it on my next map.
I am extremely happy with the work I managed to provide, this project taught me so much about the process of creating a competitive FPS map. Since this was my first multiplayer map, I did a lot of research and read a lot of guides and articles about people who have been creating CS:GO maps for years. Thanks to their guide and knowledge, I was able to put it into practice.
I didn't focus on the art in this project.
Even though I didn't manage to have full playtests, the sessions were very rewarding and fun. And I was able to see then via the different paths taken and actions made by players, the potential of my map.
Thanks for reading me !
