No Frills Map Editor

[Gobalopper]

There is an interesting discussion going on at the official forums about the map editor for Emperor and how/when/if Westwood should release it. Basically they are unsure if it should be released as currently it has a fairly steep learning curve and since it's 3D might be tough for some users to get the hang of. Check out some of Chris Longpre's comments below:

Well, here is the basic issue. We have the editor that we have used to make all the maps in Emperor. However, it is a developement tool, and is very 'tricky' to use. When it comes to making games, its generally better to spend extra time making a game better, rather than cleaning up a tool to be more friendly. (after all, its only used for internal development). So it has a steep learning curve, but creates maps just fine.

This tool is very unlike any 2D RTS map editor you've ever tried. This is 3D. It is a whole other ballgame. That alone makes it a challenge to learn well. It is not a tile based 'paint your map' experience. It is more akin to 'extruding' rock mesas from sandy deserts.

Additionally, since it is a development tool, it lacks many bells & whistles that you would 'expect' in a Windows application. Again, it is good enough to use and get results, but don't expect fancy features for sorting directories in the 'save map' dialogue, etc. etc.

The other option would be to spend a large chunk of money, several months, and make a prettier & friendly editor. At that point, you have a better editor, but we'd have to charge for it. (several guys for several months, is quite expensive)

Would you rather have a *FREE* no-frills Map Editor that is good enough (with practice & patience) to make any maps like what you've seen in Emperor? Or would you rather wait several months and pay for a cleaner editor?

If everyone would prefer the *as-is* developement tool, then there is a good chance we could get that out rather quickly.

What do you guys think? - LINK

So head over and let Westwood know what you think. Personally I am for giving us the map editor now and if there are problems letting the community help eachother out, that is what we are all about isn't it?