^Adding to the above... a (EDIT:) LOT OF tips:
Notice that the deadline is
three weeks from now. A
MegaUpload file is active for
three weeks. Not having a method to deliver is not an excuse.
Check the Sonic DIY Fan Game topic in the General Sonic forum. Post a level there first, as there is a ratings thread inside. It's a FRIENDLY competition, so we'll give tips. Edit it, and when you're sure about its greatness, post it here.
If your level needs specific music, send it with the level. If you want music from Sonic 1/2/3/&K/CD (either version) or Chaotix for your level, PM me and include an e-mail address or MSN Messenger address. I have Sonic ScreenSaver and would be glad to send you copies of the retro music included with (give a day or two, I don't check PMs right away). Note that due to copyright issues (i.e. Michael Jackson rumors), I do not have the tunes to Carnival Night, Ice Cap, or Launch Base. But how would you use those? Also, the thread in General Sonic has some music. If two people ask for the same music, and both levels are contest winners, one may get a different music track.
EDIT: And please don't wait until the last minute if you plan to PM me. I'm not answering 20 music requests on July 31st... matter of fact, I might be out of town that day.
We request that you submit a password, in the case that we need to rename your level because you're not creative in the least *shot*. Actually, it's beneficial for some to start under a working name and change it later. If you have some flash of inspiration, we can rename it, or even use the name to couple it with another person's level and make a zone. Simply re-naming the file won't work.
If your level starts at the left edge of the screen, make sure the ground touches the left edge. Press * to see the left edge, and * again to bring the menus back.
Aesthetics count. We want eye candy too.
Even though the help file discourages "badnik bopping" to secrets or spring jumps, they are actually very fun to play with. Just be sure not to place it over a pit, in case the player slips.
Don't put "act" or "zone" into the level name. It's just wasting time. If I said "Emerald Hill 1", you'd know I meant "Emerald Hill Zone Act 1". If your already have a level like that, it's no big deal. But, for future reference, remember the KISS rule: keep is simple, stupid.
Even though ARRPEEGEE and I started the contest, we're still entering, since we're not judging. So... get used to it.
Consider not submitting your level until the end of the contest. Admittedly or not, everyone is looking for the next great idea, and there's always a chance your level will give that inspiration. (you should still post that you wanna enter, though).
If you and another person make similar levels, consider asking the other person if you two could submit your levels together as one zone. We judge the levels, not the competitors.
Be careful witht the Marble Garden loop piece. It tends to be very glitchy, particularly in tight spaces.
There's no rule saying that each person can only win with one of their levels. If someone gets crazy-good with level design, all three zones and both single levels they submit (if that many) can win. Careful not to give your ideas away, you crazy-good people. I'm already kicking myself for submitting my personal best in the ratings topic.
Include a level description with your level, because if this game does make ARRPEEGEE's TUSC subsite (if
that comes to be), there might be a manuals section. Plus, it gives judges an idea what to expect when they look at your level. Hype it up!
Lastly, have fun. Don't stare at the designer for three weeks, else your family might get worried.
Mimicking ARRPEEGEE's last sentence,
~gs93
