[07-01-09] E2L03 - Warp Factor

As you enter this area, you'll immediately notice it's designed to look like the bridge of the Starship Enterprise. Keep an eye out for the computers lining the walls, the captain's chair, and the main viewscreen. Even the computer sounds are a direct callback to Star Trek. The ship is in disarray, and things get interesting when you approach the Ready Room. That's right, aliens have invaded the Enterprise! The Ready Room itself is also a faithful recreation, complete with the iconic aquarium on the wall. Duke even has a classic line when he enters: "Hmm, looks like I have the Con!"

Venture into Secret 2, and you'll find a small plaque that reads "The REALLY Ready Room." In Star Trek, the ready room is where the captain would have private meetings. Given Kirk's reputation in the series, this particular inscription might just be a cheeky nod to that.

Check out the bed in the Really Ready Room. You'll see a message that says "Blum Bed Co." This is a tribute to Allen Blum, one of the original conceptualizers and map designers for Duke Nukem 3D. It's a cool little shout-out to the team behind the game.

If you want to see the full scope of this Star Trek tribute, use the cheat code DNSHOWMAP and zoom out the automap completely. You'll see that the entire level layout strongly resembles the USS Enterprise, particularly the bridge section. While the saucer section might seem a bit small, the overall design is a clear homage.