Existing Low Detail Modes

Built-In

Although a built-in Low Detail Mode (LDM) for a list demon may significantly decrease its difficulty, completing a level in an LDM that is already built into the rated version on the servers will always be eligible for a record on the list.

There are no exceptions to this guideline, and as a result, the [placement of the level] will represent the easiest method of completing the unedited version on the servers.

In addition, creators may seek to publish a separate LDM for a list demon that they hosted.

Although they should aim to reduce the difficulty as little as possible, an LDM that was published by the level’s creator will always remain acceptable for records, provided that it continues to match the gameplay of the rated level on the servers (along with allowed [bug fixes]).

Pointercrate Account

In addition to built-in LDMs, the list team has uploaded LDMs of several list demons on the Geometry Dash account named “Pointercrate.” Records on any level published on the Pointercrate account will always be eligible for addition to the list, given that the [other eligibility requirements] are satisfied.

Custom LDMs

Some list demons may not have a built-in LDM or an LDM on the Pointercrate account. In these cases, players may choose to create their own LDMs in a copy of the level while targeting specific parts that do not run well for them.

Although it is not required to have these custom LDMs approved by the list team, it is strongly recommended to clear them with the team beforehand, especially if an LDM of the level already exists. Players should note that strong level LDMs may be considered nerfs, which violates our guidelines for [gameplay changes].

Custom LDM Guidelines

This subsection describes general points players should note when creating LDMs of list demons.

For instance, a custom LDM may not delete or otherwise alter any object that obstructs the player’s vision. Such objects include but are not limited to fading transitions, screen flashes, and foreground decoration.

Although no fixed limit for the amount of required detail exists, one must be careful to not allow a custom LDM to resemble a "layout" of the level. In general, some details should be left in the block design to avoid over-reducing the level’s decoration.

Background deletions are allowed only if their removal does not impact the gameplay.

Color Changes

Occasionally, players may encounter color combinations or flashes in a list demon that cause problems to their eyesight. Although significant changes to a level’s color scheme are not allowed (they are considered [nerfs]), minor color changes are permitted as long as the difficulty of the level remains the same.

These situations are evaluated on a case by case basis, so be sure to take any color change requests to a list team member!

Using the Smooth Fix

One common method that players use to alleviate in-game lag is to turn on the "Smooth Fix" option in the graphics settings for Geometry Dash.

Although this option allows players to run an otherwise unstable level smoothly, this process often involves slowing the level down in compensation. A completion of a level significantly slowed by the Smooth Fix option is considered equivalent to a speedhacked completion and therefore would not be eligible for a record on the list.

However, as long as the player does not somehow hide their use of Smooth Fix, a record rejected in this manner will not result in the player getting banned.

Texture Packs

Any texture packs that make the gameplay of the level easier by altering decoration are prohibited for records on the list.

Texture packs that visibly alter hitboxes (e.g. spikes, but not player icons) to make them perceptively easier to avoid are also disallowed.