My first level
I'm new to level design, and this is my first serious level sketch. I'm looking for feedback to improve. So I decided to post it here. I attach the sketch and a bit map, to visualize different sorts of activity are equally displaced in the level. Orange is horror, green is exploration, purple is a "wow" moment, red is action, and blue is calm moments.
I also attach photos with a detailed text - walkthrough.
I'm especially interested in feedback on:
pacing and progression
backtracking
boss encounter
environmental storytelling
whether the player is given enough information to understand where to go
The initial brief for this level was:
"Underwater Research Station"
Setting
Several kilometers below the surface lies a scientific research station.
During an experiment, an accident occurred.
Communication has been lost.
Most of the station's sections have shut down.
Water is beginning to leak inside.
The player is an engineer who has found himself as the only person left in this sector.
Player's Goal
Reach the central control room and restore power to the station.
Restrictions
The player starts with only:
a flashlight;
an adjustable wrench
a Level 1 access card.
There are no weapons at the beginning.
Level Requirements
The level must include:
at least 2 branching paths where the player has to choose which route to take;
1 short safe area where the player can take a break;
1 moment of surprise;
1 location that the player can see in advance but can only access later;
1 new tool or item that changes how the level can be navigated;
1 large final room where the main objective of the level takes place.
Thanks!