Dungeon Keeper
Dungeon Keeper

Lushmeadow-on-Down

Dominate Lushmeadow-on-Down in Dungeon Keeper. Focus on rapid expansion and securing resources pre-emptively to defeat hero forces across the map.

·Multi-source verified (75/76)

Lushmeadow-on-Down

Welcome, Keeper, to Lushmeadow-on-Down, a deceptively tranquil realm ripe for subjugation. This level presents a unique early-game challenge, focusing on rapid expansion and securing key resources before the heroes can mobilize their full strength. Your primary objective is to eliminate the hero forces and claim the entire map.

Initial Setup and Early Expansion

Upon starting, you'll find your Dungeon Heart in a relatively secure, central location. Your immediate priorities are:

  • Digging for Gold: Immediately begin digging towards the large gold veins located directly to the north and south of your Dungeon Heart. Prioritize the northern vein first, as it's slightly larger and less contested initially.
  • Lair Construction: Carve out a 5x5 Lair adjacent to your Dungeon Heart. This will attract your initial Imps and Bile Demons.
  • Hatchery: Construct a 3x3 Hatchery near your Lair. Food is crucial for keeping your creatures happy and fighting fit.
  • Training Room: A 5x5 Training Room is essential. Place it strategically to allow easy access for your creatures. Early training will be vital for surviving the initial hero incursions.

Creature Recruitment: Expect to attract a few Imps, Bile Demons, and possibly a Troll or two early on. Focus on training these creatures to at least level 2-3 before venturing too far.

Mid-Game Strategy: Securing Resources and Defenses

As your dungeon grows, you'll need to expand your reach and establish defenses. Lushmeadow-on-Down features several key areas:

  • Western Gold Vein & Gem Seam: To the west of your starting position lies another significant gold vein and, more importantly, a Gem Seam. This Gem Seam is a critical long-term income source. Dig towards it as soon as your initial gold reserves are stable. Be wary, as this area is often patrolled by a few early heroes, typically Monks or Fairies.
  • Bridge to the East: A natural bridge connects your starting area to the eastern section of the map. This bridge is a choke point that can be easily defended. Consider placing a Guard Post here once you have a few trained creatures.
  • Northern Hero Outpost: Directly north of your starting position, across a small chasm, is a hero outpost. This outpost houses a few Knights and Archers. Do not engage them until you have at least 4-5 creatures at level 3 or higher.
  • Southern Hero Barracks: To the south, beyond the initial gold vein, lies a small hero barracks. This area will periodically spawn new heroes, primarily Monks.

Defensive Measures:

Once you've secured the western Gem Seam, focus on establishing a strong defensive line. The bridge to the east is an ideal location for a Guard Post and a few strategically placed Traps (e.g., Boulder Traps or Spike Traps) to thin out hero waves.

Spells to Prioritize:

  • Possession: Excellent for scouting and directly controlling a powerful creature during critical engagements.
  • Heal: Essential for keeping your creatures alive during prolonged battles.
  • Lightning: A powerful offensive spell for dealing with groups of heroes or high-health targets.

Late-Game Offensive: Eliminating Hero Resistance

With a steady income from the Gem Seam and a well-trained army, it's time to go on the offensive. Your primary targets are the hero outposts and their Dungeon Heart (if present).

  1. Clear the Northern Outpost: Gather your strongest creatures (Bile Demons, Trolls, and any Warlocks you may have attracted). Use your Lightning spell to soften up the Knights and Archers. Possess a high-level Bile Demon to tank damage and deal significant melee damage.
  2. Advance East: Once the northern threat is neutralized, push across the eastern bridge. Expect resistance from more Monks and possibly a Wizard. Utilize your Guard Post and Traps to your advantage.
  3. Locate the Hero Dungeon Heart: The hero Dungeon Heart is typically located in the far eastern or southeastern corner of the map, often guarded by multiple high-level heroes, including a Lord of the Land.
  4. Final Assault: Before launching your final assault, ensure your creatures are well-fed and fully healed. Consider casting a few Speed spells on your front-line attackers. Focus fire on the Lord of the Land first, as they pose the greatest threat. Once the Lord is down, the remaining heroes will fall quickly, and you can destroy their Dungeon Heart to claim victory.

Pro Tip: If you attract a Warlock, utilize their powerful ranged attacks and area-of-effect spells to clear out hero groups. Keep them protected behind your melee units.