Originally intended to be the sixth and final instalment of BrainETR's incredible "Somewhere Else" series, I'm rather glad that "Castle in the Sky" wasn't able to make the final cut. I don't necessarily think it's a bad level (from a technical perspective, at least), but it certainly would have been an extremely disappointing way to bring an end such an emotional and powerful project. The first 33% of "Castle in the Sky" (created by BrainETR) is undoubtedly its strongest section. The level's opening few seconds radiate pure warmth and comfort while the glorious ship section that follows it carries a nearly heavenly feel. Considering the level's history as a former finale to "Somewhere Else", the ethereal nature of the level's first third makes perfect sense (especially considering this was likely meant to depict the 'protagonist' of the series ascending to a higher realm, possibly reuniting with their deceased loved one?).

Unfortunately, the rest of the level just feels like a massive disappointment, especially in contrast to its promising beginning. When the level opts to become a generic, inoffensive modern level, its quality significantly decreases, with all of the emotions and evocativeness present within the "Somewhere Else" series just vanishing in favor of overwhelming sentimentality. The true ending of "Somewhere Else" is a cathartic and devastating finale which could genuinely move somebody to tears. "Castle in the Sky" feels no different to most typical Featured levels. Koopazu's sections, albeit serviceable, feel a bit weaker in comparison to BrainETR's sections. There's a clear change in style towards the final third of the level in spite of Koopazu clearly attempting to mimic BrainETR's style.

I'm just glad this level was separated from the "Somewhere Else" series. It would have hardly fit in and would 100% be the weakest out of all levels.