This is another map pack from [Kona] that does
not fall into his “alk” series.
Fans of the “alk” maps will enjoy
this one, too. Guncotton is a two map set, with
an included start map. Both maps follow the
same theme: well-worn rusted military bases
beautifully integrated into a rocky landscape.
In classic [Kona] fashion, much of the level
consists of a series of open-air courtyards
and the areas overlooking them. These levels
would likely double well as deathmatch arenas.
Guncotton’s maps are a sight to behold.
The rock textures work perfectly with those
of the base itself. Wonderful details abound,
from the curved arches which support the base’s
walls, to the flickering light emanating from
acid pools and reflecting off the rocks, to
the Strogg insignia emblazoned about. I found
myself frequently stopping to admire the maps’
design.
The maps’ military base theme is strengthened
by the almost exclusive use of Grunt and Enforcer
type enemies. But they come in more than just
the standard varieties. New grunt and enforcer
variants include grenade enforcers, nailgun
grunts, and the extremely dangerous rocket grunts.
Each new enemy has a new skin that includes
new colors and a wonderful level of detail,
from ammo belts on the nailgun grunts to the
hair of the grenade enforcer. Guncotton’s
monster selection is somewhat of a weak point.
While the new enemy types are fun, they are
not particularly hard to kill. The map pack
skews a bit easy in the difficulty department
because of the underutilization of the tougher
Quake monsters. You won’t see a knight
or death knight or a vore and there is only
one shambler.
Health is a little tight, but sufficient. The
ammo supply is appropriate for the most part,
though you get a few too many grenades (make
sure to find the rocket launcher secret in the
second map). The monsters you face aren’t
all that tough, so you really shouldn’t
have any problem on normal difficulty and with
only 39 monsters in the first map and 47 in
the second, Guncotton is over all too soon.
This is my main problem with the map pack. Kona
leaves you wanting more. That being said, Guncotton
is a great experience while it lasts.
