I was browsing levels and I noticed that since these levels weren’t actually rated and only a few jj1 levels were actually made, I decided to rate them. That and the fact that jazz1 levels are a pain in the neck to create more than justifies this review.
Eyecandy
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Pretty good. When moving from one area to the next, tiles seem to flow into the next. One minute you’re in a yellow cavern and the next you’re in a darkened open area with suckertubes. Background tiles are used in a unique fashion giving each of these areas a real unique feel. This gets an 8 here.
Originality
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These levels were clearly just modified versions of the originals, so this takes a toll here. However, the fast cloud moving sparks and moving electrical barriers add to these fast paced levels. The shootable ground shooters add a nice touch for if they are carefully taken out, doing so can make a particular area much easier.
This gets a 7.0
Fun
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Albeit these levels are fast paced, they aren’t just shoot-kill-move-to-the-next-area kind. The levels breathe of many secret areas and sidepaths that house a plethora of goodies and baddies. Some spots are arranged in such a way that if you move too fast then they send you back to earlier parts of the levels, so the gameplay doesn’t drag you down.
8.5 here.
Layout
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Platforms are well placed and allow easy access to the next area. Some spots have difficult to climb platforms or obstacles to get to secret areas. Ammo placement is good as well and the length adds to the level’s overall funness. However, although each area is original, the player feels like he’s in a suckertube half the time, causing everything to pass by in a blur.
7.5 here.
Summary
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The levels aren’t very memorable, but you certianly enjoy playing them.
Overall: 7.7
Note: These levels are for the shareware version only.