Review by Colin Phipps

Zar is a single level for Doom 2. It is rather like Circle of Death (Doom 2 MAP11) in style, with a lot of Doom 2 textures, lots of nukage, walkways surrounded by acid, etc. This is not really a favorite style of mine, but it is done quite well here, and there is decent attention to detail with decorations and lighting. There are plenty of complex structures used, particularly the joining between covered and open areas.

The level uses a lot of traps, with lots of doors, walls and pillars popping open near the player. The traps are quite in-your-face, but not overpowering, so the level remains quite fair. The first half of the level has some good open spaces, making a few quite interesting fights as you have to watch for monsters sniping from the distance. The latter half of the level is more indoors and compact — there is a maze, which will not be to some people's taste — but the good traps continue and there are some stylish areas before the end.

Overall, a solid level for half an hour's entertainment.