| Reviewer's comments |
"The readme says this level "is absolutely not for adults". Present date, I suspect not a single soul playing this level is of tender age, which is a bit sad to think but it's only natural considering how much times have changed over the past 15 years. Still, despite the background song on an endless loop, this was a fun and short string of rooms that might have been ideal to introduce young ones to classic TR games, assuming you could pry them away from their smartphones or more modern games for a bit. Naturally nothing too taxing, so a bit hard to rate without completely defeating its purpose. 15 minutes, 3 secrets. 03/21" - Treeble (14-Mar-2021) |
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| ""In the Big Rock Candy Mountain, you'll
never change your socks..." "With the
birds and the Bees and the Cigarette Trees
at the Big Rock Candy Mountain..." Argh,
stop singing. As Agnes mentioned in the
readme, the target audience for this level
is kids and I do realise this. But I also
have to be objective and fair when
reviewing any level based on its merits
and weaknesses and this unfortunately
cannot score high. The gameplay is quite
rightly simple with a couple of switches
and items to find and a short jeep ride,
but that's about it. Secrets are well
hidden and enemies are non-existent (again
understandably and I've never considered
enemies to be a big deal when Tomb
Raiding), but the textures are actually
wonderfully rendered and give an extremely
pleasing look. Another weak point is the
music. I'm not entirely sure of its
suitability in this context as it's a kids
level but some of the lyrics are a bit
odd. Overall, nothing exciting, but
probably a good choice for kids. I
finished in 13 minutes." - Ryan (17-Feb-2018) |
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| "Short level made for children, you get to drive a jeep
around and resolve some simple puzzles while looking for 3
secrets. The atmosphere and texturing is very nice, I could
say the same for the music if wasn’t for the fact that I
find it kind of repetitive. Overall it’s a fun ride, but,
as the description says, it was mainly made to appeal to
kids." - SeniorBlitz (22-Nov-2017) |
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| "Not hard emotions in this small level, very easy to play with a fast and lineal gameplay. No enemies to shoot but you can shoot some breakable objects though. Very few pickups, the crossbow I got was only "decorative". Some cameras to show the obvious exits, a short ride with the jeep, nice musics and a colourful environment with some new textures. Interesting only for very young players." - Jose (19-May-2017) |
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| "A TR1 level and now a kiddie level in the same afternoon. Since it's intended for small children, I've graded it accordingly. It lasts for only 15 minutes, and of course there are no enemies, but some shooting is required in order to progress. I wish there were more levels out there that had such eye-pleasing surroundings and ample light to enjoy them. Not in this lifetime, apparently. Strictly a level to pad one's review count, but enjoyable all the same." - Phil (25-Apr-2017) |
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| "A very short and apt level fitting for children (well, perhaps the use of weapons is not so great but it's not dramatic). The gameplay is like most other levels of this sort, i.e. very linear and without any harder tasks, but a few slight agility tests, a pushable and a bit of exploration provide some diversity. The atmosphere is bright and colourful in its simplicity and the background sound is cheerful, if a bit too much after some time. It's of course not exactly nice stuff even for only a bit experienced players, but perhaps for the target group it might work like a charm. Found three secrets which makes it one per two minutes spent here." - manarch2 (28-Jan-2016) |
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| "This level for kids is fun, the atmosphere is convincing but I didn't like the background music you hear at first, she quickly returned to the head and as I didn't understand that, I was still more frustrated, but hey, like it's a child music it can be explained. *-* If I did not like the music, I liked the use of the vehicle. Oh, and there was a door with a padlock, no enemies, and I found one secret. Good game duration." - Quentin (05-Apr-2014) |
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| "A very good level for kids, with nice and colorful textures and simple gameplay - it featured some switch-hunting and climbing. It took me about 10 minutes." - misho98 (27-Dec-2011) |
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| "A wonderful level, which Agnes has built for her son. One may investigate here a small area of a house, which apparently lies in the mountains. If one has opened then the exit, one can make a small spin by the car and climb a little in the mountains. The interior arrangement of the house has really succeeded and makes smile several times. Though Agnes writes, that this level is not suitable for adults, but anybody, who would like to play a small level without violence or opponents, is exactly right here." - Scottie (19-Apr-2009) |
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| "As a children level, this one offers fairly simple gameplay with a fun jeep ride. Nice textures, from a kid's room to the mountains. I only wish if hadn't been for that Candy Mountain song, I know it goes with the title, perhaps even inspired it, but it was plain annoying. Besides, and it's maybe just a cultural difference, but I cannot imagine that a positively drunk guy singing about cigarette, alcohol and jail, could possibly be a song for young children." - Akcy (10-Apr-2007) |
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| "At first glace into this level, I thought, 'Hmm, nice and original setting'. It looked like the start of a mansion level and I wonder if Agnes has designed this as close to her own house. There are three sections to this level - The house, the trip and then the climb. This level is basically Lara leaving her house to travel to Candy Mountain where she can have a bit of fun climbing. Unfortunatly, the level is too short. It only took me 18 mins which is a shame as the level looked really cool with the new textures, especially those designed for the kids bed/play rooms. Theres a little variety in gameplay when you leave the house and get into the jeep. There are only a few puzzles and objects (3 I think). I did enjoy it but was a little disappointed it was only a short level. A good level for beginners but I'm afraid I would have liked something a little longer and challenging :)" - Necro (13-Jul-2006) |
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| "Considering this is made for children, I downloaded it only for fun to see what it would be like. I wasn't really expecting that much, but I have to admit that I was quite surprised when I at the beginning of the level found myself in a sort of toyroom........it was just so unexpected to see Lara in such an environment. One thing I really did love was her outfit in red and blue, that was just so cute. Also the atmosphere was so laid-back and relaxed and for once it felt ok running around out there without baddies, wraiths, dinos, undead and gargantuan spiders jumping out from every dark corner. In a way it was sort of like a non-instructed training level. The gameplay was generally ok, finding goodies scattered around, watching sweet little toys like balls and skateboards spread everywhere and I had great fun cruising along in the little, red jeep. The scenery was also beautiful with all its greenery and very tranquil too. I was just running around the level at random and was actually quite baffled when I suddenly came to the end of it.....it just seemed so unexpected. The music following you around the level was sweet and very appropriate for its purpose and the group the level is aimed at, but for my part it became a bit tedious and monotonous in the end.
All in all its a very adorable level which without a doubt children would love. I know for sure I would have been thrilled if anyone had given me a level like this when I was a child:)" - Selene (07-Feb-2006) |
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| "This level intended for children was a delight to play. As my very first ever Tomb Raider level I have nothing to compare it with and so the scores awarded by me are based on my own appreciation of this one level. The atmosphere created by the music (I did turn it down after a while but for kids..great) other 'action sounds' and the textures was quite enchanting. The jeep was fun even though some of the turns I found quite difficult! Overall I think this game is great for kids (and very old beginners who miss the target age by more than 50 years!). My one moan is that it didn't do much for my self-esteem when I realised that most kids could have done it in a quarter of the time it took me! Thanks Agnes for helping me dip my toe in the Tomb Raider river." - Mrs rjb (20-Nov-2004) |
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| "Basically I only played this level to see what a kids level consisted of. Well it would have been ok for a very young child but for anyone else it was a bit lame. Gameplay was adequate and puzzles were simple at best. One thing I could not stand was that dreadful but catchy song 'Candy Mountain'. Anyway I probably won't be playing anymore kids levels unless I run out of levels to play. Or even maybe to review more levels. If I had to grade this level I would give it a D a fail mark only because I was too old for this sort of stuff." - The Aussie Adventurer (01-Nov-2004) |
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| "Reviewing here for the taste of children scoring to reflect comparisons to normal levels. Lara is trying to find Candy Mountain and to do so has to get out of her home locate the jeep keys drive it to the mountain find three secrets on the way and use a star to open the gate to....well you end here so I imagine a treasure trove of jelly babies cherry ripe chocolate bars and jelly beans hmmmmm yum! Apart from the start which has some cartoons and colours that really young kids will like the rest of the level is pretty much normal outdoor areas that we see in most other levels. There is a hillbilly like song that plays over the top of this 20 minute level too and I actually have to admit to really liking it by the end and embarrassingly I started learning the words too the funny thing is as I learnt the words I realized that in the song played in a level made for kids some of the lyrics were '...birds and the bees in the cigarette trees...' and '...little streams of alcohol coming trickling down the rocks...'. Not overly kiddie friendly lyrics but it put a smile on my face. Anyway for very young kids this will be entertaining but as Agnes states this is not for adults." - Sash (28-Jul-2004) |
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| "Hmm well if I'm frank I didn't really like this level. I know it is aimed for little kids but it isn't a very fun level to play. You start off in a little toy room some of the objects are nice then you go from room to room with little pools and fishes in and you pull levers. Then you arrive outside and there's a red jeep to drive I didn't think outside was very attractive kind of dull really. Then up to the 'Candy mountain' which was just light coloured spots on the floor. The music did my head in; too repetitive; once was enough! Some of the objects were nice and colourful but it didn't change the fact the level was boring. Under 10 minutes long. But if you wanna play a quite dull and boring level then try it out. I know I may be a little harsh but after all honesty is the best policy ;)" - Aims (12-Jul-2004) |
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| "What a great concept: a TR for only the youngest! Instead of listening to children begging to play the latest custom level that I'm playing I sit them in front of one of the computers and quiet descends - well relative quiet. Most can play with little or no supervision leaving the other computer free for the adults. Although the vehicle controls may be a bit difficult for the three year old the others were soon driving and once the save game feature was explained had no problems. LOL More please Agnes and thank you." - Bene (12-May-2004) |
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| "Charming level for junior players and yet it's not all toys and cartoons. Outside is a really good looking rocks and trees area and we get into caves and swimming pools. To get about there's a great looking red jeep. Lovely textures and colours loved the fishes in pools and the waving water plants. I think we're all children enough at heart to see this through a child's eyes. The only thing I got sick of was that song 'Big Rock Candy Mountain' I did try believe me to let it play right through but my adult ears couldn't take it any more and I turned the sound right down." - CC (06-May-2004) |
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| "Taking into consideration this is a children's level I thought it well earned a higher score than what's been posted so far. It's positively lovely for kids and the rooms are beautifully done with kids in mind. Some cheerful children's music to help you get in the mood for a drive through the mountains with no kills involved. Collected a gem crowbar star revolver etc and had a lot of fun exploring ...... ah!!! to be a kid again! Lovely level I enjoyed it very much." - Moonpooka (06-May-2004) |
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| "I do think it's a wonderful idea that builders are making levels for young children. This is a charming colourful simple level ideally suited for introducing a child to Lara's basic moves. There's even a nicely re-textured jeep to drive. There are secrets to find and crossbow and revolver provided but nothing more contentious to shoot than boxes and barriers. There's even a crowbar to find (and given my track record I wouldn't have been at all surprised to miss it) and a star to prise off the wall. The music is courtesy of the soundtrack of Oh Brother Where Art Thou which works well although I suppose the Shirley Temple version of Big Rock Candy Mountain (minus the cigarette trees and little stream of alcohol) might have been more sanitised. If you have very young children this would be the perfect level for them to try." - Jay (01-May-2004) |
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| "I played this when Agnes didn't put it on the internet for downloading and I had to play it again to review it. First thing I heard was of course that song about the Candy Mountain yup I remembered that LOL. It is for children so there isn't that much action going on for Lara to use weapons seriously. You do find however the crossbow and the sight and later even the revolver. The crossbow you need for some practice shooting and the revolver well... Lara just left with it in her back pack. Crowbar and a blue Star are also needed to progress. There is also a small ride in a jeep so keys are needed as well. All in all straight forward. Found 3 secrets. 26-04-2004" - Gerty (30-Apr-2004) |
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| "Ultimately charming and in the tradition of the Junior and Christmas levels this is not challenging and yes it's linear and short (15 minutes) without much to do (a gem and a star a few switches and a bit of climbing) but it is just so beautifully crafted with great music a cool jeep to ride and the Janosch textures and some other specials give it a great feel. Play it to remind you that you are still young at heart." - Michael (11-Apr-2004) |
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| "This is a level meant for smaller children. It has been made with care to little details. I suppose the picture of the child shows the son Noel. I loved the other pictures like the Little Tiger by Janosch and the others. Beautiful atmosphere too. I got a bit fed up when the song about the Candy Mountain came a second time. But then I think for children that would have been quite the right thing. There is not much of a gameplay. There are no enemies. Objects are a Lasersight a Revolver a Gem and a Star. Found 3 Secrets. Nothing exciting but it was fun while I played it." - Monika (05-Apr-2004) |
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| "My son's name is Dor (seven years old) and he played this level and I write exactly what he said:"It was fun to me to play. Not hard and I want more levels like this" Well, that's it. Btw - he also gave the score." - Yoav (03-Apr-2004) |
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| "The Read-Me to this level clearly states that it's not to be played by anyone over the age of 5. This poses a bit of a dilemma for the conscientious reviewers of TRLE. Net as there are (to my knowledge) no reviewers under the age of 6 available to review it. But there must be an entitlement on the part of any player irregardless of age to critique any listed Custom Level so that's what I'm going to do. It's short and twee and not completely devoid of Gameplay (you can drive a jeep and shoot one or two things as well as activate some switches) but any fair assessment of this sort of level must evaluate the merits of its Gameplay in comparison with the other levels available and this category simply cannot be rated highly as a result. The textures are superb however and beautifully applied. Enemies not surprisingly are completely absent so a fair score must reflect that fact also. My biggest complaint though is the choice of music. The opening song (which is encountered again later on) is so annoyingly twee and cloying that I had to turn the sound down in order to avoid vomiting; but of course your average 4 year old may well adore it. There's never a 4 year old around to write a review when you need one." - Orbit Dream (31-Mar-2004) |
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| "This is a level for children and therefore I rated it high because the gameplay is suitable for kids not adults. Lara walks around nicely textured rooms with pictures of cartoons like cats and such. I liked the decoration with the balls and the elephant pictures on the doors. Going outside a beautiful garden awaits the little players and a jeep is waiting for someone to give him/her a ride. It's quite an easy level of course and it should be. The only thing you need is a gem and a star to finish the level. It's highly recommended for our little raiders." - Kristina (28-Mar-2004) |
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