MAP RELEASE #17. TWO NEW MAPS BY CHK
Hi, everyone!
With all the fuss surrounding the X-D mapping contest, the ordinary map releases got a little neglected and shelved. We haven't had a normal map released since kz_skyline in February (barring kz_ladderjumps by Phinx in June, since it's not a recordable map). So, it's about time we finally released a couple traditional maps.
And this time it's something really special: renowned mapper chorykapitan recently made an unexpected comeback, and the first thing he did is begin mapping again! We haven't seen a new map from him in 2 years since kzre_mess in April 2024, and now he's back with TWO brand-new maps, that's quite epic if you ask me.
The first one is chk_oxytocin, a medium-length speed-map set in a dreamlike landscape. Highly abstract and surreal-looking, it's a fine addition to chk's hormone-named map series (chk_serotonin, chk_dopamin). What really sets it apart from his previous maps, though, is the fully modelled 3D-skybox - an innovative feature we've been seeing increasingly often since the release of arte de la puerta's mapping software gchimp. The skybox itself features enormous hills stretching endlessly into the distance, absurdly overgrown trees, and insanely high marble pillars leaning to different directions, so tall you can barely see the top. Truly, a sight worth beholding.
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On the dedicated wikipedia page, I found the following information:
Oxytocin is believed to have a significant role in social learning. There are indicators that oxytocin may help reduce noise in the brain's auditory system, increase perception of social cues, and support more targeted social behavior.
And, while there's no scientific consensus on whether it's 100% true or no, I believe some of us KZers could really use some oxytocin in our lives, so that we go and finally touch some grass maybe. Regardless, thanks you chk for looking out for us and being caring like that.
Difficulty: Medium
Type: Climb
Length: Long
Mapper: chorykapitan
The second map, kzre_wonderwall, might have something to do with why chk has been missing for 2 years, since it's SOO HUUUGE! Surely, he spent last 2 years working on it methodically... Just kidding! Nonetheless, the length of this map cannot be overstated, it currently stands as his longest map, even longer than chk_kobayashi (by a few minutes)! It takes place in an industrial district of a dystopian city.
Wonderwall is structured in such way that jumps are almost everywhere you see, which makes for a very unique general layout. The design and attention to detail are on point as well, even in spots which players never visit in the course of the gameplay. You can spend a lot of time just flying around in noclip and trying to grasp the sheer complexity of the architecture bustling with little details and obscure references, as well as occasional easter eggs. Map's name also carries a certain meaning, which you can discover by playing the map and inspecting your surroundings very carefully. See if you can figure it out.
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Difficulty: Hard-Extreme
Type: Mix
Length: Very Long
Mapper: chorykapitan
That's it for now, but there's more to come very-very soon, including from chk, stay tuned. Enjoy speedrunning and exploring the maps, and leave your feedback in the comments. Till the next time!
Map-checking Team.
All map descriptions are written manually by me, no AI used