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To map, or not to map
| [Content from Rulebook page 147.] |
One thing every scenario designer needs to consider is whether the scenario requires a map or not, and also how detailed this map will be. Almost all of the training scenarios in this book do without a map. We've done this because it is difficult for us to know exactly what terrain the people playing the scenarios will have available, so we've left things as open as possible whenever we can.
When you are designing your own scenarios you can do the same thing, and there is no reason at all for you to draw a map unless you really have to. The advantage of not drawing detailed maps for scenarios is that it is easier to work this way; and it makes it easier to use whatever terrain you have available when playing a game. Quite often scenarios will not really require a map at all, and at other times they will only require a map showing vital terrain features. Korps Grinda Returns! scenario works like this, just showing the terrain features mat need co be placed, and allowing the players to add more scenery to the gaming table as they see fit.
In contrast, a proper map for a scenario will add a lot of character to the game, as you will be able to make sure that the terrain is interestingly and appropriately laid out, and you can also name all of the terrain features when this is appropriate. You can also use maps to show the 'larger picture', showing what is happening beyond the area represented on the gaming table.
Once again, this will help the players get a feel for the situation that the battle is taking place in, and this will make any games that are played that much more enjoyable. It is far more fun knowing that you are battling for the famous heights of Koth Ridge on Piscinia IV, or that you have just captured one of the bridges over the Sulphur River on Rynn's World, than it is to simply capture 'the hill' or 'the bridge'. On the whole, then, taking the time to create a map for a scenario is well worth the effort if you have the time, and the players will appreciate the game far more.
