This map and the \'rookie\' version (Amazon) is in direct response to the \'Michi Non-Rush\' map that has sadly become a rookie favorite on the zone. That map paints the center of the map with a big block of trees that is only passable
with Imperial Age Siege Onagers. It\'s called a \'non-rush\' map because you can\'t even attack until you clear the trees in Imperial. I find this trend a bit disturbing. It forces you to play a civ that has Siege Onagers (or rely on an ally) to cut a path to the enemy, and it encourages massive booming without any threat of attack in the early ages. This is creating a whole slew of newbie and rookie players with no early game skills. This map is my answer to \'Michi Non Rush\'. It paints a river down the center of the map. The only way to get to the other side (and the enemy) is with transport boats. Proper scouting and watch towers can alert anyone to an early age attack or a forward build. Also, no activity across the river can start until feudal, so there is plenty of time to prepare.
The map comes in two versions: A \'rookie\' version called \'Amazon\' which has plenty of resources and plenty of ways to turtle (if you *must*, sigh), and the \'expert\' version called \'Nile\' and it basically down to default resources and small tree patches. IMPORTANT: if you dont play exactly TWO teams, the river becomes criss-crossing water ways (1v1v1, for example). If that is what you want so be it, but the only way the river will disect the entire map is with TWO distinct teams and no more. Also, you can play smaller than normal with this map, there is plenty of real estate. Enjoy! -Ferrari_Warrior
P.S. All you \'Michi\' players try this map for a change!!