Lore

Obsidian crystals form on the polar ice caps of this planet due to the bizarre mix of volcanic activity and freezing temperatures

Overview

I present to you the latest [SIZE=4]installment of my crystal cave themed maps, and one out of two maps I intend to submit for the extermination contest. I didn't think I would get this done in time but it turns out that I got it done even before my other map which I started before this one :p Thanks to xMalevolution for co forging a majority of the layout, that gave me the motivation I needed to grind this map out.
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Layout

Speaking of the layout, Obsidian has what is, in my opinion, a unique and comprehensive design. It like most functioning extermination maps is quite small, in fact it is probably the smallest I have seen. It is also symmetrical. But instead of the "spawn in and die" match you would expect on a map so small, there is a wonderful flow vibe. This is due in large part to xMalevolution's clever segmentation and verticality. He intended it to be a 2v2 originally but I saw the potential it had for this new Gametype and also the theme I have been patenting. There were some changes I made however, I opened up some areas and balanced the CQC hallways to a less overwhelming dose, as well as added some barriers to edges that were a bit dangerous. Overall it plays smoothly, promotes competitiveness, and ends in very few ties.

Aesthetics

I'm sure you've noticed by now the theme of this map is similar to my last map Gypsum. I got a lot of positive feedback on the concept and I wanted to expand upon the idea. It's starting to become a bit of a calling card for me. I mixed it up enough to where each map has its own feel. Obsidian's symmetry is masked by the variety of natural and seemingly random objects. Lava, alien plants, rocks and crystals a blended in to a point that make call outs simple. Carefull not to get burned!

Weapons

The layout of the map is complimented by the well balanced weapon set and the powerups tend to dictate the flow of the round. They are as follows:

2 Battle rifles
2 storm rifles
2 Boltshots
2 of each grenade

The weapon pad at top mid is host to a Scattershot (2 clips, 60 second respawn) and at bottom mid there is active camouflage. Per Max Extra's suggestion, the camo does not respawn but instead is replaced by the damage boost 60 seconds after pickup.

Side notes

I'm quite proud of this map therefore I wanted to show it to the world as soon as it was playable, however I'm still ironing out some minor kinks. So weapons and spawning amongst other things are subject to change before the contest deadline.

As always thanks iForge and HSFN for creative feedback and playtesting.