i've never mapped for hl2 (yet). mapping for hl1 is cool, but it's too limited -_- so i think mapping for hl2 should be awesome
what if we had a new hl1 engine.. that can run hl2 maps... with same weapons.. em... nevermind

I have a hypothesis, correct me if I am wrong.

I think the lack of anything HL2 (at least here at Snarkpit) is the lack of any maps with downloads available. Consider, the majority of anything we see is either images or 100% completed.

Once upon a time, everything we saw had our full attention because we all participated (or had the option to, we could be active or inactive by choice). Now all we get to do is look from the sidelines.

Personally, I am fully cognizant of the thinking that the bigger a website gets, the less personal it also gets but... I think that if we applied just a few of our old morals to the newer members we would generate more interest in HL2 mapping.

The problem is IMO, most of the newer member have not taken the time to read through our maps forums and seen all the high level critiques we have made in the past. Sad really, but I wish we had put more pressure on Lep to include quality feedback critiques in the site and made them "On Par" with "Reviews"

I bet if we polled the new members, they wouldn't have a clue as to what a critique is, and those that did know, wouldn't know what a quality one looked like. Tis why none of them request any.

HL2 won't ever be on par with HL1 until the community creates the conditions necessary to have it so. Ask yourself this.. When was the last time more than 10-15 members actively participated in a n00b map? I am not talking about idle comments, I mean in depth. We used to have that all the time.

/observational commentary.

Thanx Duncan.. I needed that. " SRC="images/smiles/icon_smile.gif">

Another small note. Few members seem to be using the personal rating system anymore..

Perhaps we should begin a campaign to inform the new members of exactly what Snarkpit stands for..

How does this sound.. We get Lep to add a page, so that when you submit a new map it informs you of things like critiques and such that you can request, or utilize in your maps creation.. The page would be full of links like to tutorials and to pages with exceptionally written critiques.. The page couldn't be closed for say... 3-5 minutes to assure that either you read the links or are annoyed enough to not submit.. preferably the first option. " SRC="images/smiles/icon_smile.gif">

Sad, but true.. People whom are inclined to read don't need the incentive, and people who aren't will only wait the time and ignore it anyway.

I will be home today. Perhaps I will pick a random map and critique it.. Of course I will chose a map that clearly states something along the lines about "opinions welcome" " SRC="images/smiles/icon_wink.gif">

There, I fixed it for you bud..

/runs laughing maniacally

I remember the old school mapping, you had to make the props yourself, every map I see uses the same grafitti decals, the same tables and chairs...

I'm more used to HL2 now sadly, HL1 was where I started and it is thanks to HL1 that i'm safe at home with HL2.

*Cough* Opinions are welcome *cough*