Jabiim

Description
StarkillerMarek's first map, "Jabiim" is, as you might guess (if you've read any related comics), a map set on the muddy, war-torn plains of Jabiim.

As first maps go, this one isn't too bad. It's not perfect, by any stretch, but several first-map pitfalls were avoided and a sincere effort was made to try out some unique things.

The good: AI heroes. Bravo; these add a lot to the game, they're not tough to implement, and I like seeing them. Nice work making sure they're in. Sky effects - both skydome changes and environmental fx (rain) - are welcome additions and a great way to show that you know what you're doing working with the sky (and that you took notice of it and cared to change it!). Adding in a number of vehicles is a good start too, as many people have problems putting in vehicles. I didn't see them getting stuck often, either, but I don't know if that's because of the openness of the map or because of AI planning. Finally, this is also a nice and creative map - it needs some polish, but I like that you branched out and made something that wasn't Tatooine, Hoth, or Yavin IV.

What still needs work? For starters, the terrain is far too rough. There needs to be a lot of blending work done in most places, as the terrain looks very square. Secondly (and smoothing out terrain will help this), your water isn't complete - there are some spots where your water just ends and doesn't intersect with the ground. While you're in ZE, don't forget to change the placement of some objects - I saw at least one rock prop floating above the ground. You are also missing the majority of the sounds for your vehicles - I know adding in proper sound can seem daunting for a first-time mapper, but believe me when I say having the right sounds is worth it - sound adds a lot.

All in all, not a bad map - the author also did a nice job to change up the sides a bit (even if it is only really visual - and I think even those were only CW) and add in some different heroes. Give it a download if it looks nice!

P.S. A note to the author: You don't need to include the entire heroes.lvl side just to add in Bespin Luke and Asajj Ventress. The majority of the Conversion Pack's heroes assets can be downloaded at Gametoast and then compiled into a new side (which will save a lot of space).

-Mav