In the center of the map there is a large oasis. Each player is separated from the opponents by the hill, with raw materials or the oasis, so it's best to play this map in two teams. Map is full of green and raw materials.
Playability: 4.5
Great! This map works well for all types of scenarios - against AI's, head to head multiplayer, or any combination of both. First I played against three AI's teamed against me. I was located lower left, Wolf in upper left, Emir in upper right, and Lionheart lower right with full computer advantaged on deathmatch. With the plentiful resources and room enough to build huge kingdoms, the AI's put up a great fight from all directions. Next I played a 1 vs 1 game on Gameranger. Here this also worked well because while the terrain was unbalanced, the resources were more or less equal. Most online players prefer the balanced symmetrical arena maps, but it's always a nice change to play maps that represent an authentic crusade battle environment with realistic terrain.
Balance: 4.5
An interesting mixture of terrain and resources that balances the gameplay. Both teams (if teamed upper and lower pairs) have certain advantages and drawbacks. The lower team has less room to build, but more iron and raised terrain for easier defense. The upper team has more room to build but less iron, and some trees must be cleared before you can take full advantage of stone quarries. This makes it interesting.
Creativity: 4
Good creativity here. This isn't just another bland 4 player map with corner keeps. Each keep placement has different characteristics, and therefore different ways to take advantage of the terrain. The oasis pools were a nice touch.
Map Design: 4.5
You know how to make a great map. It's polished and much thought was put into the layout. Realism and detail that rivals the crusader trail maps.
Story/Instructions: 3
No story, but you included a brief description of the scenario. A good story can get you a 4 or 5!
Additional Comments:
I enjoyed this map alot. You're a skilled map maker. I look forward to more!