ARV Contest Thread

[Sir Heroscape]

NEW CONTEST:​

​

All right everyone, COVID threw things into whack, but we're back!! This time, with a fun twist. We’re calling on all map builders to come up with competitive, tournament worthy maps and to submit them here for scoring. In the end, 10 maps will be chosen as the best and of the 10, #1 will be given a very high quality prize. And believe me, you don't wanna miss out on this! We've designed and prepared custom ARV DICE for the winner! Here are the 2 options the winner will be able to choose from. The set will be a full set of 12, 6-sided dice.

Option #1:

Option #2:

Why are we doing this?
It's time to have another contest and keep the excitement going with new and fun maps. Specifically we want this contest to challenge map makers to be lean and deliberate with every terrain piece. Requiring one of your expansions to be a Marvel set can be quite difficult at times when trying to make a balanced map for tournament play, and we don't see the Marvel set used too often. Now, we will!

Submissions Accepted Starting...
October 4th, 2021
Submissions will be due...
November 1st, 2021 @11:59pm MST​

Guidelines

1. This map contest will have a few changes from our normal guidelines in the OP:
   • Map submissions MUST use the Marvel set (either as an expansion, master set or the extra one). Your submission can contain 1 EXTRA Marvel set.
     ex. BftU (MS), RttFF (Exp), Marvel (Exp), Marvel (Extra)
   • Submissions can be previous maps you've built
   • Maps MUST have a backstory as you submit the map. Help us envision being there, and the story behind it. It can be as simple as a couple sentences or much longer, but we want to see more than just the map itself.
   • Remember to keep map design focused on the theme. This theme is fairly vague because we'd like to see some unique creativity with this one.

Classification of Heroscape sets:

Spoiler Alert!

• Master Sets. One of the following may be used as a master set:
  • Rise of the Valkyrie
  • Swarm of the Marro
  • D&D: Battle for the Underdark
  • Marvel: The Conflict Begins
• Expansions: Up to 2 of the following may be used:
  • Road To The Forgotten Forest
  • Volcarren Wasteland
  • Thaelenk Tundra
  • Fortress of the Archkyrie
  • Ticalla Jungle
• Hybrid Master Sets: One of the following may be used in place of 1 expansion:
  • Swarm of the Marro (Except when also used as a master set.)
  • D&D: Battle for the Underdark
  • Marvel: The Conflict Begins

Scoring

ALL maps submitted will be revised and scored according to the following Rubric:

• Aesthetics/Creativity(originality of build/looks good): 10pts
• Balanced (doesn't favor one build over another): 20pts
  Maps should not heavily favor any one special ability to the point that it makes the map non-competitive if an army does not contain that ability (i.e. range, flying, etc.)
• Fits Theme & Good name: 10pts
  
  Total: 40pts

*The sitting judges scoring the maps:
@Sir Heroscape @heroscaper2010
@Nomad
@Flash_19
@Robber
@TREX (Emeritus)
@Tiranx (Emeritus)
@BiggaBullfrog (Emeritus)

*Each map will have a rubric filled out, one from each judge. All the scores will then be averaged for one final score for that map.

*At the end of the deadline, the top 10 maps will be chosen and posted. A PUBLIC POLL will then be opened for the community to vote on the best map out of the top 10. The map winner will be posted after a week long poll and the prize awarded.

Map Building Tips for Competitive Design (from the judges)
1. avoid putting Power Glyphs on height (exceptions may be made depending on the build)
2. Double-spaced figures must be able to access all glyphs
3. Glyphs should not be able to be reached turn 1 by 5 or 6 move figures
4. avoid too much elevation close to the start zone (exceptions may be made depending on the build)

Map Building Checklist: For Competitive Balance
Take into consideration:

1. Does Raelin break this map?
   
   Look for spots she can fly to on turn 1. Can she get onto a single-hex height position? Can she get next to a jungle bush? Can she protect a glyph holder, or two glyph holders for that matter? Can she remain on height on an easily defendable position? These are types of things you want to look for​
2. Does a Dragon build break this map?
   
   Can a Dragon fly and turn 1 attack the opponents startzone? Not always unbalanced, but can be if the position is easily defendable or on height. You also have to consider how dragons fly and shoot. Could a dragon fly from perch to perch and remain unengaged while shooting an opponent?

   
   [*]Do rats break this map?
   

   Look for choke points. Are there any areas where 1 or 2 rats could block an oncoming army and virtually lock the board down without much of a contest? Are the glyphs too easily obtained/defended by rats?​

   
   [*]Is it impossible to place the hive in the start zone?
   [*]Is it too easy for pods to set up?
   

   There are many competitive builds that are played by finding a position and simply holding it while the opponent advances to attack. Consider finding areas where an army could easily set up their pod without being contested by an opponent, or where a position is too easily defendable from height.​

   
   [*]Is it too easy to defend/control glyphs?
   

   Generally speaking, you'll want at least 2-3 positions where an opponent can attack a glyph holder and even better if from height. Glyphs should be in a spot relatively equidistant from each startzone and in a fairly weak position. Glyph holders should be at a disadvantage.​

   [*]Is there elevation in the start zone?
   [*]Can move 5 or 6 figures reach glyphs on turn 1?
   [*]Are there too many choke points?
   

   Basically what was stated on the rats question. Look for too many narrow areas where map flow could get clogged down and hinder an army's ability to move and develop.​

   [*]Are you unable to develop armies quickly?
   

   This is harder to describe...but basically maps should allow your army to reach midmap at least by turn 3. Maps that hinder movement so much that fighting doesn't happen till Round 2 will make games slow and arduous. Develop maps that figures can move through without too much restriction. Too many elevation changes can cause problems with development.​

If you can answer yes to 2 or more of these questions, you’ll likely want to revise your map. For more details on the above list, refer to Biggabullfrog's recent article on 10 Tips for Map Building​

Prizes
ARV custom dice set (pick 1 option)!

Spoiler Alert!

Known Mapmakers
@TheSparkleInYourWater @Cleon @Skylord163 @TheEpicAlpaca @capsocrates @Tornado @Dad_Scaper @Colorcrayons @Dignan @All Your Pie @Annerios @arp12 @Bengi @BiggaBullfrog @Blodshogams @Browncoat @Buddy Lee @Cavalier @cavie @dok @Eclipse @Elstree @nyys @Fedex worker @Filthy the Clown @GaryLASQ @GeneralRolando @Hahma @Nadi @Hex_Enduction_Hour @hivelord @j-Bird @Jexik @killercactus @Killometer @kolakoski @kriegskeks @Lamaclown @legoboy @lonewolf @mad_wookiee @master4sword @MegaSilver @Mooseman @NecroBlade @Obsidian @ollie @pauldragon @peteparkerh @quozl @rednax @Retlaw @robbdaman @Robber @Rÿchean @rym @Ryougabot @'Scaper94 @Shades fan @Sherman Davies @skyknight @Scapemage @srmalloy @stubobj @SuperflyTNT @Swamper @Taelord @tannergx @The CEE @tom @twilkerson @Typhon2222 @Viegon @Warlord Alpha @Wind Lane @Yodaking @zanter
@A3n @vvildeyedjoker @heroscaper2010 @Herofly @Dr.Goomonkey @Leaf_It @rednax @TheTravelingScaper @GaryLASQ @Flash_19 @antmarchingroves @majofa

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Old Contests:

Spoiler Alert!

All right everyone, it's been a long break, but we're back in action with another exciting map building contest. We’re calling on all map builders to come up with competitive, tournament worthy maps and to submit them here for scoring. In the end, 10 maps will be chosen as the best and of the 10, #1 will be given a very high quality prize. And believe me, you don't wanna miss out on this! We've designed and prepared custom ARV DICE for the winner! Here are the 2 options the winner will be able to choose from. The set will be a full set of 12, 6-sided dice.

Option #1:

Option #2:

Why are we doing this?
It's time to have another contest and keep the excitement going with new and fun maps. Specifically we want this contest to challenge map makers to be lean and deliberate with every terrain piece. Restricting yourself to 1MS and 1 Exp can be quite difficult at times when trying to make a balanced map for tournament play.

Submissions Accepted Starting...
March 11th, 2020
Submissions will be due...
April 8th, 2020 @11:59pm MST​

Guidelines

1. This map contest will have a few changes from our normal guidelines in the OP:
   • Map submissions can have no more than 1MS and 1 Expansion to build.
   • Submissions can be previous maps you've built
   • For this contest BftU and SotM will not be considered expansions. Exception: you can build a map with BftU X2
2. Maps MUST have a backstory as you submit the map. Help us envision being there, and the story behind it. It can be as simple as a couple sentences or much longer, but we want to see more than just the map itself.
3. Remember to keep map design focused on the theme. This theme is fairly vague because we'd like to see some unique creativity with this one.

Scoring

ALL maps submitted will be revised and scored according to the following Rubric:

• Aesthetics/Creativity(originality of build/looks good): 10pts
• Balanced (doesn't favor one build over another): 20pts
  Maps should not heavily favor any one special ability to the point that it makes the map non-competitive if an army does not contain that ability (i.e. range, flying, etc.)
• Fits Theme & Good name: 10pts
  
  Total: 40pts

*The sitting judges scoring the maps:
@Sir Heroscape
@Nomad
@BiggaBullfrog
@Flash_19
@Robber (Emeritus)
@TREX (Emeritus)
@Tiranx (Emeritus)

*Each map will have a rubric filled out, one from each judge. All the scores will then be averaged for one final score for that map.

*At the end of the deadline, the top 10 maps will be chosen and posted. A PUBLIC POLL will then be opened for the community to vote on the best map out of the top 10. The map winner will be posted after a week long poll and the prize awarded.

Map Building Tips for Competitive Design (from the judges)
1. avoid putting Power Glyphs on height (exceptions may be made depending on the build)
2. Double-spaced figures must be able to access all glyphs
3. Glyphs should not be able to be reached turn 1 by 5 or 6 move figures
4. avoid too much elevation close to the start zone (exceptions may be made depending on the build)

Map Building Checklist: For Competitive Balance
Take into consideration:

1. Does Raelin break this map?
   
   Look for spots she can fly to on turn 1. Can she get onto a single-hex height position? Can she get next to a jungle bush? Can she protect a glyph holder, or two glyph holders for that matter? Can she remain on height on an easily defendable position? These are types of things you want to look for​
2. Does a Dragon build break this map?
   
   Can a Dragon fly and turn 1 attack the opponents startzone? Not always unbalanced, but can be if the position is easily defendable or on height. You also have to consider how dragons fly and shoot. Could a dragon fly from perch to perch and remain unengaged while shooting an opponent?

   
   [*]Do rats break this map?
   

   Look for choke points. Are there any areas where 1 or 2 rats could block an oncoming army and virtually lock the board down without much of a contest? Are the glyphs too easily obtained/defended by rats?​

   
   [*]Is it impossible to place the hive in the start zone?
   [*]Is it too easy for pods to set up?
   

   There are many competitive builds that are played by finding a position and simply holding it while the opponent advances to attack. Consider finding areas where an army could easily set up their pod without being contested by an opponent, or where a position is too easily defendable from height.​

   
   [*]Is it too easy to defend/control glyphs?
   

   Generally speaking, you'll want at least 2-3 positions where an opponent can attack a glyph holder and even better if from height. Glyphs should be in a spot relatively equidistant from each startzone and in a fairly weak position. Glyph holders should be at a disadvantage.​

   [*]Is there elevation in the start zone?
   [*]Can move 5 or 6 figures reach glyphs on turn 1?
   [*]Are there too many choke points?
   

   Basically what was stated on the rats question. Look for too many narrow areas where map flow could get clogged down and hinder an army's ability to move and develop.​

   [*]Are you unable to develop armies quickly?
   

   This is harder to describe...but basically maps should allow your army to reach midmap at least by turn 3. Maps that hinder movement so much that fighting doesn't happen till Round 2 will make games slow and arduous. Develop maps that figures can move through without too much restriction. Too many elevation changes can cause problems with development.​

If you can answer yes to 2 or more of these questions, you’ll likely want to revise your map. For more details on the above list, refer to Biggabullfrog's recent article on 10 Tips for Map Building​

Prizes
ARV custom dice set (pick 1 option)!

Spoiler Alert!

Known Mapmakers

-----

Spoiler Alert!

All right everyone, we're back in action with another exciting map building contest. We’re calling on all map builders to come up with competitive, tournament worthy maps and to submit them here for scoring. In the end, 10 maps will be chosen as the best and of the 10, #1 will be given a very high quality prize…that is: A custom dice bowl designed by TREX!

Why are we doing this?
It's time to have another contest and keep the excitement going with new and fun maps.

Submissions Accepted Starting...
July 11th, 2018
Submissions will be due...
August 8th, 2018 @11:59pm MST​

Guidelines

1. General guidelines for all contests specifically outlined in OP of the Welcome thread.
2. Maps MUST have a backstory as you submit the map. Help us envision being there, and the story behind it. It can be as simple as a couple sentences or much longer, but we want to see more than just the map itself.
3. Remember to keep map design focused on the theme. This theme is fairly vague because we'd like to see some unique creativity with this one.

Scoring

ALL maps submitted will be revised and scored according to the following Rubric:

• Aesthetics/Creativity(originality of build/looks good): 10pts
• Balanced (doesn't favor one build over another): 20pts
  Maps should not heavily favor any one special ability to the point that it makes the map non-competitive if an army does not contain that ability (i.e. range, flying, etc.)
• Fits Theme & Good name: 10pts
  
  Total: 40pts

*The sitting judges scoring the maps:
@Robber
@Sir Heroscape
@Nomad
@BiggaBullfrog

*Each map will have a rubric filled out, one from each judge. All the scores will then be averaged for one final score for that map.

*At the end of the deadline, the top 10 maps will be chosen and posted. A PUBLIC POLL will then be opened for the community to vote on the best map out of the top 10. The map winner will be posted after a week long poll and the prize awarded.

Map Building Tips for Competitive Design (from the judges)
1. avoid putting Power Glyphs on height (exceptions may be made depending on the build)
2. Double-spaced figures must be able to access all glyphs
3. Glyphs should not be able to be reached turn 1 by 5 or 6 move figures
4. avoid too much elevation close to the start zone (exceptions may be made depending on the build)

Map Building Checklist: For Competitive Balance
Take into consideration:

1. Does Raelin break this map?
   
   Look for spots she can fly to on turn 1. Can she get onto a single-hex height position? Can she get next to a jungle bush? Can she protect a glyph holder, or two glyph holders for that matter? Can she remain on height on an easily defendable position? These are types of things you want to look for​
2. Does a Dragon build break this map?
   
   Can a Dragon fly and turn 1 attack the opponents startzone? Not always unbalanced, but can be if the position is easily defendable or on height. You also have to consider how dragons fly and shoot. Could a dragon fly from perch to perch and remain unengaged while shooting an opponent?

   
   [*]Do rats break this map?
   

   Look for choke points. Are there any areas where 1 or 2 rats could block an oncoming army and virtually lock the board down without much of a contest? Are the glyphs too easily obtained/defended by rats?​

   
   [*]Is it impossible to place the hive in the start zone?
   [*]Is it too easy for pods to set up?
   

   There are many competitive builds that are played by finding a position and simply holding it while the opponent advances to attack. Consider finding areas where an army could easily set up their pod without being contested by an opponent, or where a position is too easily defendable from height.​

   
   [*]Is it too easy to defend/control glyphs?
   

   Generally speaking, you'll want at least 2-3 positions where an opponent can attack a glyph holder and even better if from height. Glyphs should be in a spot relatively equidistant from each startzone and in a fairly weak position. Glyph holders should be at a disadvantage.​

   [*]Is there elevation in the start zone?
   [*]Can move 5 or 6 figures reach glyphs on turn 1?
   [*]Are there too many choke points?
   

   Basically what was stated on the rats question. Look for too many narrow areas where map flow could get clogged down and hinder an army's ability to move and develop.​

   [*]Are you unable to develop armies quickly?
   

   This is harder to describe...but basically maps should allow your army to reach midmap at least by turn 3. Maps that hinder movement so much that fighting doesn't happen till Round 2 will make games slow and arduous. Develop maps that figures can move through without too much restriction. Too many elevation changes can cause problems with development.​

If you can answer yes to 2 or more of these questions, you’ll likely want to revise your map. For more details on the above list, refer to Biggabullfrog's recent article on 10 Tips for Map Building​

Prizes

• Trex's handmade custom dice bowl/tower!
  
  Spoiler Alert!

  

  
  ​

  
  

  

  
  ​

Spoiler Alert!

Known Mapmakers
@TheSparkleInYourWater @Cleon @Skylord163 @TheEpicAlpaca @capsocrates @Tornado @Dad_Scaper @Colorcrayons @Dignan @All Your Pie @Annerios @arp12 @Bengi @BiggaBullfrog @Blodshogams @Browncoat @Buddy Lee @Cavalier @cavie @dok @Eclipse @Elstree @nyys @Fedex worker @Filthy the Clown @GaryLASQ @GeneralRolando @Hahma @Nadi @Hex_Enduction_Hour @hivelord @j-Bird @Jexik @killercactus @Killometer @kolakoski @kriegskeks @Lamaclown @legoboy @lonewolf @mad_wookiee @master4sword @MegaSilver @Mooseman @NecroBlade @Obsidian @ollie @pauldragon @peteparkerh @quozl @rednax @Retlaw @robbdaman @Robber @Rÿchean @rym @Ryougabot @'Scaper94 @Shades fan @Sherman Davies @skyknight @Scapemage @srmalloy @stubobj @SuperflyTNT @Swamper @Taelord @tannergx @The CEE @tom @twilkerson @Typhon2222 @Viegon @Warlord Alpha @Wind Lane @Yodaking @zanter
@A3n @vvildeyedjoker @heroscaper2010 @Herofly @Dr.Goomonkey @Leaf_It @rednax @TheTravelingScaper @GaryLASQ @Flash_19 @antmarchingroves @majofa

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Submissions open Wednesday, so start thinking about what you're going to build!

 

[Sheep]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Guidelines

1. General guidelines for all contests specifically outlined in OP of the Welcome thread.
2. Maps MUST have a backstory as you submit the map. Help us envision being there, and the story behind it. It can be as simple as a couple sentences or much longer, but we want to see more than just the map itself.
3. Maps MUST have a designated Wellspring(s) on the map indicated by a powerside up power glyph on it.

For clarity,

#3, is which power glyph we use or what it does up to us? Or is it even supposed to do anything other than indicate the wellspring(s)? Or is that up to us too?

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

@heroscaper2010

Whatever power glyph you use is up to you and it will be active, it is not just a placeholder. The idea is that the Wellsprings are giving you greater power against your enemies...just like in the lore.

 

[Yodaking]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I'll muse a bit about the theme and see if anything comes to mind.

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I'll muse a bit about the theme and see if anything comes to mind.

Well the past two times you've mused have turned out pretty well, so I'm excited to see what you come up with ;-)

 

[vvildeyedjoker]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Hi all,

I think I want to throw my hat into this ring. This is my first contest. On the Welcome Thread for this I saw that we were allowed to upload the map to our threads as long as we state that it is for this contest. Being new to this contest I wanted to try and upload it to my own thread first to make sure I knew how. To preface this I am not asking anyone to review my map or anything, but I was wondering if someone could follow the map link in my signature and see if everything uploaded correctly. Again not asking for any opinions or anything on the map itself (although I would definitely be open for tips or critique if thats allowed) I just wanted to make sure I uploaded it correctly and in the right format. Thanks.

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Hi all,

I think I want to throw my hat into this ring. This is my first contest. On the Welcome Thread for this I saw that we were allowed to upload the map to our threads as long as we state that it is for this contest. Being new to this contest I wanted to try and upload it to my own thread first to make sure I knew how. To preface this I am not asking anyone to review my map or anything, but I was wondering if someone could follow the map link in my signature and see if everything uploaded correctly. Again not asking for any opinions or anything on the map itself (although I would definitely be open for tips or critique if thats allowed) I just wanted to make sure I uploaded it correctly and in the right format. Thanks.

The image looks good and the link is working just fine. I think you've got it all figured out ;-)

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

You may now submit your maps for the contest!​

​

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Anxiously awaiting to see what people come up with ​

 

[TREX]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Anxiously awaiting to see what people come up with ​

I have finally finished up all my have to do projects around the house and the prize for this contest is up next on my agenda. Once the prize is posted it should bump up some competition I would think. Its going to be sweet looking. I'll probably be able to finish it tonight.

 

[Yodaking]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Well, if I'm the only one to submit a map then I can win the prize!! I have a map designed in VS, I just want to build it and maybe run a game or two first to see if I should tweak it anywhere. I've already moved tiles around several times in VS trying to work out the best lay out (in theory).

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Well, if I'm the only one to submit a map then I can win the prize!! I have a map designed in VS, I just want to build it and maybe run a game or two first to see if I should tweak it anywhere. I've already moved tiles around several times in VS trying to work out the best lay out (in theory).

Haha...you're right...though I know of at least 3 or 4 others that will submit maps, so it won't be an outright win ;-) That, and these contests tend to have a bit of a slow start as it is, so we'll see...but I'm hoping we'll get at least 10 as that is the number for those that we will select from. But also keep in mind we allow 2 submissions per member...so that really helps with getting enough maps submitted.

 

[vvildeyedjoker]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I'm in the same spot. I have my VS files made but I have to put actual game time in on them.

 

[Yodaking]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I've got to say the idea to design a map around a specific glyph (or set of glyphs) has really been a boon to my creative juices. Thanks a lot for creating these contests with new map making parameters. Knowing exactly what glyph will go where opens up all kinds of new possibilities for maps that are not viable when dealing with blindly assigning a random glyph to a locations. I think this change also turns some of the previously established notions for balanced maps on their head though. As such I have worked up two map ideas now that fit the theme and seem like they could be really fun and new but I have a couple of questions about.

On one, I can't decide what the best glyph would be for the map between two options, and with the way the map is designed one of the two glyphs will be required. Both seem like they could make the non-traditional map work but would play somewhat differently. Can I submit the map with both glyphs listed as viable options and leave it up to the tournament director to decide which one they want to use?

For the second one, the theme is really strong and I like the potential the map has for a different type of battle. However, it violates a couple of your 'tips' and I don't know if that will automatically disqualify it. In particular I have the 'wellsprings' (there are two of them on this map) designed to be actual wells and thus they are single hex locations that a double hexed figure couldn't claim. The thing is that both are also pretty minor in effect and won't make or break your armies' chances to win. They are their more for the theme than to significantly boost your army. In fact, one glyph effects both sides equally. Is the double spaced figures standing on a glyph really a hard rule?

 

[TREX]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

The prize is finished. If I can stop working long enough to get home and post pictures. Ill just say that it turned out as good as I expected and you guys will love it. (So get thosesubmissions in and ill post pics by this evening.)

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I've got to say the idea to design a map around a specific glyph (or set of glyphs) has really been a boon to my creative juices. Thanks a lot for creating these contests with new map making parameters. Knowing exactly what glyph will go where opens up all kinds of new possibilities for maps that are not viable when dealing with blindly assigning a random glyph to a locations. I think this change also turns some of the previously established notions for balanced maps on their head though. As such I have worked up two map ideas now that fit the theme and seem like they could be really fun and new but I have a couple of questions about.

Thank you for the kind words...we're glad to hear that the contests get people excited about mapbuilding, That is our goal!

On one, I can't decide what the best glyph would be for the map between two options, and with the way the map is designed one of the two glyphs will be required. Both seem like they could make the non-traditional map work but would play somewhat differently. Can I submit the map with both glyphs listed as viable options and leave it up to the tournament director to decide which one they want to use?

I think that would be fine, but I'll wait to hear from the other judges...

For the second one, the theme is really strong and I like the potential the map has for a different type of battle. However, it violates a couple of your 'tips' and I don't know if that will automatically disqualify it. In particular I have the 'wellsprings' (there are two of them on this map) designed to be actual wells and thus they are single hex locations that a double hexed figure couldn't claim. The thing is that both are also pretty minor in effect and won't make or break your armies' chances to win. They are their more for the theme than to significantly boost your army. In fact, one glyph effects both sides equally. Is the double spaced figures standing on a glyph really a hard rule?

For me personally yes it is a hard fast rule for a competitive map. If it's going to be played at a tournament it needs to accommodate armies with double-spaces figures, and there are plenty of competitive armies that simply won't be able to access the Glyphs. BUT I think if you were to submit the map with Glyphs (per our requirements) and in the instructions indicate that the map should be played without Glyphs for competitive play, then you'd be okay. Also when you submit, make a note to us that during Scoring (and if it makes the Top 10 and is playtested for tournament worthiness), it should be scores (and/or playtested) without the Glyphs. This of course is assuming the map is balanced without the Glyphs, and if not then I'd encourage you to make it balanced without them. With Glyphs could be for casual play, without Glyphs for competitive play. That would be my answer anyway because if you indicate the Glyphs are for the theme but the true competitive nature of the map is without them, then I think that would be fine. But again, is also like to hear from the other judges on this: @BiggaBullfrog @Tiranx @TREX

 

[BiggaBullfrog]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

On one, I can't decide what the best glyph would be for the map between two options, and with the way the map is designed one of the two glyphs will be required. Both seem like they could make the non-traditional map work but would play somewhat differently. Can I submit the map with both glyphs listed as viable options and leave it up to the tournament director to decide which one they want to use?

I have a mild preference for keeping it to one glyph. If, hypothetically, I were to vote against the map, it wouldn't be primarily because of that, but it could be a nail in the coffin. On the other hand, though, if I were to vote for it, having a choice between two glyphs wouldn't be a huge distraction for me. Which I guess means go for it! I have faith in your mapmaking abilities, so it will probably be a non-issue for me.

For the second one, the theme is really strong and I like the potential the map has for a different type of battle. However, it violates a couple of your 'tips' and I don't know if that will automatically disqualify it. In particular I have the 'wellsprings' (there are two of them on this map) designed to be actual wells and thus they are single hex locations that a double hexed figure couldn't claim. The thing is that both are also pretty minor in effect and won't make or break your armies' chances to win. They are their more for the theme than to significantly boost your army. In fact, one glyph effects both sides equally. Is the double spaced figures standing on a glyph really a hard rule?

There are a ton of "rules" for mapmaking, but I feel like all of them can be broken if the map is right. That said, the double-spaced access to glyphs is one of the hardest rules, in my opinion, and thus one of the most detrimental to break. So, if there's a way to keep it, it would be better to. Like I said, though, all rules can be broken, and I could see this being an acceptable rule break if the map is right. If the glyphs aren't super powerful, as you suggested, and if they're easily accessible, and if melee double-spaced figures can easily contest the glyph (even if they can't stand on it themselves, as long as they can easily engage the figure on it and have a good chance on keeping it clear), then I can see a possibility of the map being approved as competitive. But that is a lot of if's, and they would all have to be done well.

 

[Sir Heroscape]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

13 Days Left before the deadline. I know there's a lot of you out there still lurking or working on your maps. Also, keep in mind you're allowed 2 submissions!​

 

[Tiranx]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

I've got to say the idea to design a map around a specific glyph (or set of glyphs) has really been a boon to my creative juices. Thanks a lot for creating these contests with new map making parameters. Knowing exactly what glyph will go where opens up all kinds of new possibilities for maps that are not viable when dealing with blindly assigning a random glyph to a locations. I think this change also turns some of the previously established notions for balanced maps on their head though. As such I have worked up two map ideas now that fit the theme and seem like they could be really fun and new but I have a couple of questions about.

On one, I can't decide what the best glyph would be for the map between two options, and with the way the map is designed one of the two glyphs will be required. Both seem like they could make the non-traditional map work but would play somewhat differently. Can I submit the map with both glyphs listed as viable options and leave it up to the tournament director to decide which one they want to use?

For the second one, the theme is really strong and I like the potential the map has for a different type of battle. However, it violates a couple of your 'tips' and I don't know if that will automatically disqualify it. In particular I have the 'wellsprings' (there are two of them on this map) designed to be actual wells and thus they are single hex locations that a double hexed figure couldn't claim. The thing is that both are also pretty minor in effect and won't make or break your armies' chances to win. They are their more for the theme than to significantly boost your army. In fact, one glyph effects both sides equally. Is the double spaced figures standing on a glyph really a hard rule?

I agree with both @Sir Heroscape and @BiggaBullfrog. However, the glyphs not being accessible to double spaced figures would definitely be a ding against you in the judging process. Doesn't mean it would knock you out of the top ten, but would probably keep you out of the #1 spot.

I have personally had several times where the game enjoyment factor was hampered by my Grimnak not being able to access a glyph due to being double spaces. If glyph placement makes a game unbalanced or not fun then it should be modified to reconcile the problem.

So, here is my rule: If Grimnak ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.

 

[TREX]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

The maps being played where all figures have access to glyph locations seem to be the most fun. If you have an army of double spaced figures and your figures cannot take control of glyphs when your enemy can it puts an immediate handicap on you. Placing glyphs where some figures cant access them would definitely affect my scoring in the balance section of the map judging.

 

[Yodaking]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Thanks for all the feedback. Sounds like my second map idea won't take home the prize but I may submit it anyway just because I love the theme and backstory for it so much. Can use two of the same exact glyph on the one map?

 

[Tiranx]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted Wellsprings

Thanks for all the feedback. Sounds like my second map idea won't take home the prize but I may submit it anyway just because I love the theme and backstory for it so much. Can use two of the same exact glyph on the one map?

As long as the map would still be balanced, there would be no issue.

 

[TREX]

Re: Contest Thread: The Uncharted WellspringsRIZE UPDATE

The Uncharted Wellsprings Dice Bowl
@Sir Heroscape , Go ahead and link the prize to the OP. May the best mapmaker win.
@Tiranx, @BiggaBullfrog, these pics do it more justice now that the clear coat is on. Especially the gloss coat on the water.