Possible new maps for SSL 1? - Page 3

One of the solid maps in the pack. Resource allocation, expansion setup and the center design closely mirror other standard macro maps. The low-to-low ramp makes a return, which I think is a good addition to the set of commonly used map features.

The expansion layout in particular makes it pretty easy to take and defend new expansions. The high amount of expansions (16) and the absence of gas at the mineral-only might make this map tend towards Z>P.


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/191

One of the maps I'm looking forward to the most - it's been some time since we last had the unconditional-3-expansion-setup combined with a regular open center.

This map has reduced ressources (1200//3000) on expansions other than the starting positions, which is supposed to force players to "expand earlier". However, this is typically not what is happening and players just tend to run out of ressources earlier, which is more or less severe depending on the matchup.

Balance will probably we questionable at best, but I think we're likely to see a few interesting builds and games before the optimal play has been figured out.

I'm hoping for games where e.g. Protoss might go for a defensive split map scenario due to early access to a lot of gas PvZ, but I'm afraid of ZvT games with crazy Zerg on 6 gas and 20 sunkens.




Link: https://910map.tistory.com/192

A standard macro map with a slightly harder to take third base compared to some other modern maps. Maps with a central highground tend to be somewhat problematic, but it's hard to say how the ring-shaped structure will play out. I assume zergs might struggle in ZvT.


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/193

Generally a standard map reminiscent of many other modern 4p maps, however with a big gimmick where mineral patches have 1.2k minerals apart from a few patches with 50k each, in particular 3 in each of the mains.

As previously mentioned, I think that reduced minerals only result in players running out of minerals earlier, which, depending on the matchup, is either very severe or doesn't matter. To me it seems very unlikely that such a change will result in what players perceive as a fair.

Regarding the 50k patches I agree with others in the thread in that this change will be much less important than the reduced patches. One strange scenario which we might run into is when one player secured 3 of the 4 starting locations, thus having 9x 50k mineral patches.

It's hard to predict the effects overall, but I'd say either the 50k patches turn out to be irrelevant or we'll get a few games which showcase why this is overall a bad idea. I think it's unlikely that this feature will make a return in the future.


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/194

I dislike this map for a few reasons but I think it could turn out one of the balanced ones in the batch.

Just in case you didn't notice - there is a random-ass neutral tank blocking the main ramps (zerglings can fit). This will be irrelevant in most situations but make some builds slightly worse.

Then we have the additional pathway from the natural to the third, blocked by 10x0 mineral patches. In some cases this means you can take a third while being otherwise contained, but most of the time it means that particular timings and all-ins become stronger. I tend to dislike this type of changes, but assuming it turns out to be a defensive rather than offensive feature, it could be fine.

Further, there are big parts of unwalkable terrain in the center which heavily constrain army movement and make it impossible to take engages in some matchups. Last, access to all expansions can be defended from a highground position.

I think overall we might end up with repetetive games, but similarly to Neo Dark Origin, it could somehow turn out to be balanced.


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/196

Maybe the worst candidate in a long time. We were making maps like this 15 years ago and they never turned out to be playable.

First of all this is a vulture heaven for TvP - apart from the corner bases, all expansions are wayyy too open.

Then we have the gimmick expansions with mineral lines which block unit movement - they are both exposed and low on ressources, thus obviously they will be taken later in the game when there is no other option. This means that for the most part of the game, those mineral lines will block unit movement and do nothing else. While those pathways are closed, the distances on this map become too large.

I expect games with pathing problems and frustrating, long and slow army movements and a general feeling of having to fight the map.



Link: https://910map.tistory.com/197

I don't know whats on the menu, but the map maker was cooking here. This is like a midlife crisis impersonated as broodwar map. + Show Spoiler +

The expansion layout is similar to (2) Destination with a second main entrance with a free mineral only backyard, which is otherwise guarded by the third base.

Then there is another expansion accessible via a floor gate (accessible only early and for workers) from the main, ramp blocked by 3x5k hp temples. The expansion itself and the corner mineral-onlys are blocked by neutral turrets which need to be killed first.

Last, the very center of the map can be permanently closed.

Some of the expansions have reduced resources.

Honestly I've no idea how this will play out. Maybe the assimilators in the center will turn out to be an annoying feature. I'd also like it more if the XelNaga expansions could be taken by either player, i.e. make the mineral lines not tankable from inside the main.


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/198

A so-called concept map. It's one of those that will result in dumb games and be veto'd by almost everyone, should it somehow make it to ladder at some point. Very likely to be broken in specific matchups.

What is nice though is a new mechanic that is used for the water areas - highground water tiles are copy/pasted onto the water, which blocks direct vision. + Show Spoiler +


Link: https://910map.tistory.com/199

Standard macro map. The inspiration for this map (Gladiator) was not super balanced, so it'll be interesting how this will turn out. I feel like the general tightness and the defensive features might give an edge to the defensive races in each matchup.