This is my first 8-player map.It's great fun to play it with AIs and with humans - the choice is yours.Also I should tell you to play it like that 2 in the center VS 2 in the left upper corner VS 2 in the right upper corner VS 2 in the bottom.Now I must write a story, because otherwise my rate will be lower.In the middle ages 2 crusaders decided to create their own kingdom in east of mountain Altai (Central Asia).When they arrived 2 lords from west Russia and 2 lords from east Russia atacked them.More unfortunately the Persians and the Chinese atacked them from south, so because a 2 crusaders a big war was approaching.Now it's all up to you to save yourself.Well...I MADE IT YES!!!N-JOY & Hope you like beef! ;-)
Playability: 4
(I am playing stronghold crusader since it was released in 2002 (started with demo earlier. i have to say that playing with four or three different teams is my favorite. So your idea is great, love it ;) of course there were some minuses that AIs can't finish their own castles (2 castles combine into one) but it doesn't ruin the game if you add apropos opponents. I played with Frederick against Caliph and Wazir, Snake and Wolf and two Richards with a full computer advantage. I liked it a lot. Played a couple of hours and still i don't want to end it. :)
Balance: 5
(Huge amount for resources, it's the main thing to fight for (especially AIs. They like to battle for pitch and stone. ) Makes it easy to live and FIGHT. It allows you to try different tactics etc. I think i am gonna brake my gold achieving record on this map :D
Creativity: 5
(As i mentioned earlier i like the idea of creating the map that is suitable to play for three or four different teams. The marsh in the middle is big target for people who like HOT things (like Caliph, Wazir). I am not one of them but sometimes the fire can be a deadly defense, especially against human, so i like to fight for pitch too :) )
Map Design: 4
(Well it's not very fantastic, but that's not the point. The map is done good for this style of playing. As i said before i like the marsh in the middle, and the trees which are separating the teams. ( Later in the game a battle for wood begins :D ) I have to mention that there were some empty spaces in the map and oasis grass was empty but still i like your work.
Story/Instructions: 5
(It fits to the map well. I like that. Besides it's realistic and not too long. (Sometimes long stories are boring to read. In conclusion a good story for a good map :) )
Additional Comments:
The idea of this map is obviously great. Maybe the design isn't super, but still i played (and will play) good and interesting mission on it. In the end i just want to say that i like your style of work. Maybe you should spend a little more time on the map design, but i like it anyway :)
Sincerely,
AZ ViTrAzhAs