This is a multiplayer map with a focus on maritime combat.The general layout is somewhat symmetric, while all of the independent settlements are populated by humans (and defended!). Numerous small islands are spread throughout, while a major landmass domiantes the centre, which is the richest of these lands.
With the AI being incapable of fleet interaction, I strongly recommend playing with all four wizards under human control.The magic power level is intentionally kept low with each player stating with just one node of their sphere and no further nodes on the map. So it will take blood&steel to win this one... and wooden ships with iron men!
Notes on the SM version:
Player Wizard/Themes:
Artica: Strong in magic, wise and ancient. Those who enter your realm are lost in terrible storms and never heard of again...
Mab: Your orcish minions are eager to bring down any who defy your will. Soon the Horde will march and bring your rule to the Myriad Islands.
Yaka: Your are destined to rule over these seas. The Tigrans are the greatest corsairs and traders of all times, may all burn who stand before you!
Allthane Axrock: The Clans have united and chosen you as their leader. Enough of petty raids, now is the time to assemble a huge fleet of longboats and sail southward to plunder and subjugate them all!
Players are much stronger now in the beginning. Artica strengthened by giving her much greater access to magic than the other wizards via Shrines of Magic and initial spells. The Orcs and Dwarves received Shrines of War and racial structures to their benefit, while the Tigrans got a Champions Guild instead of a Mirage.
A word of warning: There are many patrolling pirates and sea monsters out there, be careful!
More gold-producing structures were added to the map, plus booty in the independent cities. The caves below the central island should be interesting... for those who dare!
Players are at war with each other at the start of the game for maximum conflict.
Good Winds, and may your foes end in a wet grave!