I tried to put a bit of everything into making this map ( variety ya know )...cliffs, ocean and jungle. Only two crossings on the river should make for some interesting times. This map began as a 4 then I found it was more fun as a six. Plenty of resources and game. I decided it was unbalanced because the Lords on the plateaus can command the valleys below. Have fun...love to hear comments
Playability: 4
The map plays great (I played it three times). I put a Sheriff in the middle of the right side of the map (8k comp advantage-crusader game). Then I was on the other side center. Plenty of farmland to get farms going quick, but the stone and iron are some distance (from the center). The river crossings are the main battlegrounds, and I took off here because there are alot of ferns and trees that make moving troops around difficult (especially in the heat of battle). This became frustrating when I was moving and placing shields there.
Balance: 4
As far as resource amount balance, the sides are similar if not identical. This is good for multiplayer use. I took off because its seems a little crowded with six players on there.
Creativity: 4
Good with river blending into ocean. See above about ferns. I like the map (lost twice and won once). The time I won I used crossbowmen and catapults with shield support. Then ran a few assassins in. Its a fun map with detail.
Map Design: 3
I went back and tested the map for six players. I had some problems. Certain computer AIs dont work or get jammed in the corners (Philip and Frederick's castle gets jammed). I did not test it with every different kind of king in every different spot...
Story/Instructions: 4
Story well written and map not too complicated.
Additional Comments:
Like stated, you tried to get every type of terrain and water on here. Its a working map, for 1v1, and 3v3. 1v1 maps are played the most and are remembered for their creativity, more than 6 player map, IMHO.