Burning Ice2 [1.0] is submitted for review.

[LPhillips]

New map: Burning Ice2 [1.0] by LPhillips.
Map editor link: Burning Ice2 [1.0]

[LPhillips]

I want some variety in the way the map plays out, so I've returned to 2 spawns. This should leave the players unable to predict each other fully. Rushes are more risky (did your opponent start there, leaving you to face the brunt of his forces, or is he still on the other end of the map?)

I submitted this map for general consideration and testing. If it is preferred, it will replace the current version. The current version suffers from some balance problems anyway; the southern player is easier to rush and the northern player has a higher city count and the ability to bless units eventually. The southern player has better internal defense, but is not properly compensated for the other disadvantages.

Balance changes:
1) Southern player's powerful city is not easily accessible by land for the northern player.
2) Southern player has access to a strength temple.
3) There is a path through the lava between the least defensible parts of each player's homeland, guarded by towers. This should prevent and break stalemates lasting over 25 turns.
4) Internal travel is somewhat improved for both players. The northern player may need some neutral guards removed if his start is too slow.

[kenc80]

I feel like the strength temples are unbalanced. north start, its awfully out of the way, no?

At first blush it seems to me that the southern strength temple is in a nice spot, easily accessed by heroes fighting on both flanks. As is usual, my fight here has become a two front war with west and east battles for the sides. No one willing to send major forces through the center. Dont you think this fight favors the south start since he has the temple so close to teh action?

[LPhillips]

I feel like the strength temples are unbalanced. north start, its awfully out of the way, no?

At first blush it seems to me that the southern strength temple is in a nice spot, easily accessed by heroes fighting on both flanks. As is usual, my fight here has become a two front war with west and east battles for the sides. No one willing to send major forces through the center. Dont you think this fight favors the south start since he has the temple so close to teh action?

Honestly, I don't know how convenient the southern temple is. I intentionally increased the southern player's mobility to compensate for his other faults. However, every spawn puts me in the north, and I can't get a relatively fast-moving game on this map to test it out!

The north still has better income, one more city, and the ability to rebuild two pretty wealthy cities. If you insist on continuing that stalemate then I can state unequivocally that the southern player will lose.

[LPhillips]

It occurs to me to place the temple in a central location, in place of that level 2 ruin. Thoughts?

[kenc80]

I just played this and the southern player cannot reach the L2-lava blocks it. That seems a little harsh unless the north cannot reach it either...

[kenc80]

I just played this and the southern player cannot reach the L2-lava blocks it. That seems a little harsh unless the north cannot reach it either...