"The Maddening"

madden.wad

Author(s):

Eric W. Buck

Year of release:

2003

Map(s):

01

Engine:

ZDoom

Date of review:

04/06/2006

Overall rating:

I enjoyed this map very much.
As to gameplay and appearance, it's not overwhelming but still above-avarage, with some nice fights and traps and a good level of detailing.
Two things make this wad exceptional. It provides good use of some ZDoom features. Best of all are the ambient sounds, which are creepy and ingenious. I won't spoil it here, but the pure idea to use THIS as an ambient sound is genial!
The second thing I liked, though many players probably won't appreciate it, are some dodgy riddles and secrets. But you still can finish the map without exploring them.
One minor issue: it's possible to reach a secret area on an unintended way whereafter you will be trapped, because the regular way is still closed. I only got this after I opened it in Doombuilder.

Unfortunately, I can't determine, where I got this wad from. It's not in the official archives and all sites that offered them are down. So, you should take the opportunity and download it here.