Panels



Panels are the fundamental building blocks of Aperture Science Test Chambers. Panels can be placed anywhere, and can be used to form walls, floors, ceilings or even Crushers. Because the orientation, angle and height of Panels can be adjusted as needed, they can be reconfigured in order to create a near-infinite number of variations. Due to their range of uses and large number of possible permutations, Panels are an ideal choice for constructing test chambers, and allow those in charge to create new chambers with new obstacles and hazards on-the-fly.

Function
Panels are capable of aiding or impeding the player's completion of the task at hand depending upon their placement. Non-static Panels in test chambers are usually activated through the use of Buttons, which will either add or remove panels to or from the player's path. For example, a series of Panels can be used to create a new walkway or staircase, provide a surface upon which a Portal can be placed, or to provide a barrier to prevent the loss of critical items such as Weighted Storage Cubes. Panels can be used effectively in virtually every test, making them very useful for trapping a Test Subject or shielding the player from a hazard. This mechanic becomes much more crucial during Co-op, as Panels are often present in order to block one partner from crashing into a hazard, or are used to prevent the duo from easily accessing a certain area. The Aperture Science Panel is a structure and testing element forming almost all offices and Testing Tracks of the Aperture Science Enrichment Center. In Portal 2, it often functions as the successor to the Victory Lift introduced in Portal. Panels form the structure of most test chambers, and are often instrumental in reaching certain areas. They may or may not be required to be activated with Thermal Discouragement Beam catchers, Super Buttons, ordinary buttons or other testing elements.