Playability: 3
If you played this map as a human v. human in multiplay, then it would be ok. It doesnt work with computer AIs because of the walls. Its correctly listed as a skirmish (multiplayer), so I'm giving it a 3. Its two big castles on raised ground, nothing spectacular or ingenious. But if you needed a basic map to play one of your friends on gamespy, this map would work like any other general map.
Balance: 3
The sides are near equal on resources, making this good for a human v human fight. I dont like maps that have big blocks of resources just drawn in, but prefer realistic looking areas of iron ore (mountains and small rocks added for effect) and stone placement (big rocks with some elevated land with quarry rock mixed in). Check out some tips on the site about map design and on how to make maps look better. You will get a better response on here if you make your maps look natural, instead of just big square areas of iron and stone in the corner.
Creativity: 2
This author has some room for improvement on creativity. I have watched the Lord Of The Rings movies a couple of times, and I am no means an expert on JRR Tolkien (read the hobbit once when I was 8). But, I think this map has deviated off the original design plan a tad. People need sources to draw from for inspiration. I find that any fantasy or reference book will do. Getting a book on castles, especially castles of the Crusades, at the library helps generate ideas. Keep tryin!
Map Design: 2
The map has two working castles, but thats about it on design. You can see where the elevation design tools were used and how the author tried to eyeball the measurements on the farmland and trees. Take some time and look at other maps on here (especially the good ones). Then apply the design tricks you see (take notes if you need to) to make your maps look better. You will get better ratings.
Story/Instructions: 1
Some people dont like to write, period. Some feel comfortable just copying out of the dictionary. Some people can make up a basic story, but dont want to sound dumb, so they skip it. Believe me, the only way to get a five here from me is to include a story. It doesnt have to be great, and can be totally made up. Skirmish maps dont really need a story, but this one doesnt even tell you if its supposed to be played by two humans or by one human and a computer AI. If you need ideas, check out some fiction at the library, or watch a movie and think up a story from there.
Additional Comments:
Everyone has to make their first map. Some first maps are good, some are not so good. This one is the latter. But, the major point here is to keep TRYIN'!
Lollard
[Edited on 10/03/05 @ 04:40 PM]
Lord Rushton
Posted on 01/16/06 @ 03:13 PM
Rating
1.6
Breakdown
Playability
3.0
Balance
1.0
Creativity
1.0
Map Design
2.0
Story/Instructions
1.0
All i had to do was march m force with some hired arbians and just won so easy!