First off, the facts:

Map Name: Torment 1.5
Gametypes Recommended: Multi-flag, Stockpile, Slayer Pro, Throwdown
Players Recommended: 2-8
Author: JFox (PatchworkZombie)
Weapon List:
1x Shotgun
1x Sniper Rifle
1x Grenade Launcher
4x Needle Rifle
2x Needler
2x Magnum
2x Plasma Grenade
2x Frag Grenade

Well this is my first official map release since Reach came out. As some people might know, I had made a few race maps in Halo 3 that turned out good and eventually ended up on Bungie favourites. I then later made my first competitive map, which was later featured on xForgery.com.

In Halo: Reach I wanted to make a map that reflected my style for my Halo 3 maps. However I also wanted to create improvements in the gameplay and layout aspect of a map. The initial layout of the map was inspired by construct, with the top level clearly dominant in the map, yet also had it's disadvantages. I will go through some of the more detailed aspects of gameplay later, but for now you can enjoy the part of the post you have already skipped straight to.

Pictures:

Overview

Blue Team Lift Room

Bit o' Stockers

Pitside brawl

Gameplay:
With this map I tried my best to learn from the mistakes I made with my previous maps. This mistake was that I didn't nearly test the map enough to ensure quality gameplay and balanced spawning. With this map I can honestly say I spent nearly double the amount of time testing the map than I did actually forging it.

My main goal was to create a map that worked well for Capture the Flag, with around 6 to 8 players. In the end I most definately achieved this. The spawns are smooth and the weapon layout is balanced.

I know what you're thinking having seen the pictures, "OMG that upper level is going to be a camping fest" Well take a look at the first picture. Notice the bridge is very thin, made of railings. This means that a sniper is extremely vulnerable from the height as strafing is more or less impossible without falling into the "Death Pit". As well as this, the two gravity lifts that connect both bases with the top floor ensure that a sniper has no idea when an attacker will be on him. So in a nutshell keeping control of the sniper is a harder task than it looks.

If you want to get the most out of this map I highly recommend getting a 3vs3 game going with either Team Slayer, Multi-flag or Stockpile. The base element and symmetrical design make these gametypes very tactical with controlling vantage points (such as the top floor) a way to enhance a team's advantage during play.

Aren't ready to download yet you say? Well this short video captured by IDave the Rave should entice you :P

YouTube - Torment - Halo Reach Forge by PatchworkZombie

And just in case you missed it:
DOWNLOAD TORMENT 1.5

THANKS:
- IDave the Rave (for creating the video)
- SteVo
- vThe Joker
- Katanga Askar
- Everyone who tested