Friday, May 28, 2010

Blood Oak Dungeon by Biznatch101

Blood-Oak-Dungeon

Biznatch has been talking about his current project for quite some time now, but I didn’t start paying much attention to it until last night when he was discussing it in #Atmosphir. From the way he talked about it and the way people listened, I figured I would pay a little more attention. Thankfully for me, I didn’t have to wait long for the release, as it came out within a few hours. I can’t accuse of Biznatch of false advertising; his level really is a masterpiece.

Blood Oak Dungeon is the newest level from Biznatch101, and it’s everything you can expect from the designer of some of Atmosphir’s hardest levels. Similar to his previous level, Biznatch Industries, Blood Oak Dungeon takes you through narrow halls filled with some of the most frustrating challenges known to Atmosphir. That’s not to say that they’re not fun, of course. Some will make you think, some will make you move, and some of them will drive you insane (in a good way, of course).

The atmosphere of the dungeon fits its name well. A thick green mist floods the area, giving off an earthen feel. Personally, I was impressed by the patches of soil decorating the walls and ceiling, complete with a hanging root here and there. It’s a perfect blend of stone and soil throughout the whole adventure.

While there’s not a solid plot involved in the level, Biznatch manages to incorporate his classic sense of humor as you go along. After each challenge, a mysterious voice will taunt you with clever rhymes that only Biznatch himself could come up with. It’s a good thing he added these; without his humor, I might have snapped at a few points in the level.

The real highlight of this adventure is at the end, however. Biznatch has created an excellent boss fight, the likes of which I have not yet seen in Atmosphir. The concept itself is rather simple: defeat the Blood Oak. To do so, you’ll need your ever-faithful bomb cannon and some good aim. As you’re being attacked by two Muka Shaman, you’ll need to successfully activate five moving platforms from a distance. This can be easier said than done, though it’s a bit more relaxed when compared to some of the fast-paced action earlier in the level. I was stumped (excuse the tree humor) for awhile, but managed to find the last platform with some help from Daimon. I assure you, it’s there!

My hat goes off to you, Biznatch. Not only did your level manage to infuriate me, but it managed to inspire me to write the first Atmoscore review in months. And for that, I thank you. I’m looking forward to your next near-impossible challenge!