Portal 2 Puzzle Maker/Editing Tips

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• The editor does not allow for the creation of brushes smaller than 128x128. If you wish for something to be raised (for example, so a redirection cube can reach a laser, or so that a turret is vulnerable to a laser at 64 units high) you can place it on a lightbridge aimed at a black, non-portalable surface (so as not to interfere with gameplay).

Avoiding Traps

The editor is not able to detect situations where the player can get trapped or stranded, and it is not pleasant for players to have to hit "restart level." Do not assume that the player will always be able to portal out! Follow these guidelines to ensure that the player will never get trapped.

• Avoid creating pits that the player cannot portal out of; use deadly goo or a laser field instead. If you were planning on using such a pit for flinging, a portalable surface on the wall or ceiling above the entrance to the pit, or otherwise an escape shaft, will solve this.
• Be aware for situations where the player can get trapped behind a panel, and include an escape route.
• Be aware for situations where the player can get stranded on an island surrounded by deadly goo, and include a faith plate to return the player to a spot where they can finish the test.
• Any puzzle involving boxes and 90-degree panels acting as doors is easily prone to creating a trapping issue. Include an escape route and an easy way to respawn your box.
• Be aware of other cases where the player is prone to getting trapped. Often this is the result of abused and misused one-way paths.