In 2000 and 2001, cartoonist Andreas "ENTE" Endres released a series of custom Quake III levels, that came to be known as PadMaps, with the intention of promoting his comic strip character PadMan and realising his dream of seeing PadMan transformed into a playable 3D model. This dream was soon realised with the help of Australian model-maker Tone. PadCrash was to be ENTE's last custom level for Quake III before turning his attention toward the development of the PadMod.

Famous for producing original larger-than-life reality maps, for what is basically a remake of Q3DM17, PadCrash is somewhat of a departure for the author. However, this remake does retain the author's colourful and fun styling. PadCrash is textured in vibrant reds, oranges and blues, showcasing the World of PadMan logo. As a nod to the "Lilliputian" style of mapping that ENTE was to become known for, PadMan and PadGirl look down upon the proceedings from the Skybox above.

PadCrash comes in three versions: PadCrash, PadCrash_DM17, and PadCrash_CTF. PadCrash itself is a more compact form of DM17, concentrated around the main platform, while PadCrash_DM17 more closely follows the layout of the original. PadCrash_CTF is obviously designed with Capture the Flag in mind and holds a Battle Suit on the up-most central platform accessible by teleporters concealed at each base. While each map varies in its item load from the original, it is still a Q3DM17 remake and the Rocket Launcher (RL) will be the order of the day with health pick-ups being a risky proposition. The inclusion of grenade launchers is generally a questionable choice for space maps. For me, PadCrash_CTF is the most enjoyable of the three and was included, in modified form, as wtf24 for the WTF-Q3A-v3 map pack.

The resident bots are StonePad, PadSoldier, and PadRock. All are formidable opponents, dodging and weaving close range attacks while making predictive shots with a high degree of accuracy. They can be difficult to make out from the background details in the heat of battle. And while they do not come pre-packaged with the level, all are available for download from the World of PadMan website.

Dieselkopf provide an industrial metal soundtrack for players to frag to but you will need to download and install Ente's PadSpace to play it. There is a version available here on ..::LvL but it does not come with the music.

Where it suffers the most is from the ramping on the upper back platforms and the raised bounce pads on the lowest platform. Whether chasing down an opponent, or fleeing an attack, one can slide straight over the bounce pads or into the void, leading to many forced errors and missed opportunities. Placing guard rails at the back of the ramped areas and setting the pads flush to the floor would have helped greatly here.

While one of the better-looking Q3DM17 remakes, it is still basically a Q3DM17 remake making it a download that some may wish to avoid. However, for those looking for a stylish version of DM17 or a custom level with a late night party vibe this may be for you. Fans of ENTE's Lilliputian reality levels may also be disappointed with this release. The CTF version is pretty cool.

One for the die-hard fans of the World of PadMan and/or Q3DM17.

Reviewed by HelterSkeleton