Before we actually get started, this is something I wanted to clarify. All of our contests, normal ones and otherwise, are made to provide some variety and inspiration for the mapping community. The reason I am bringing this up is because of the less than spectacular results of our Payload competition. Yes we had some really terrific maps. But we also had at least twice as many promising entries that just got burned out or discouraged for various reasons.
Part of this is the sheer amount of talent we have in this community. It's easy to be disheartened when the wip thread above yours has 5+ pages. I want to stress that you shouldn't be doing this for any prize, or to genuinely compete with others. There is no bad blood here, and we're all interested in the same thing. You should be doing this as a chance to focus your efforts, be a part of something huge, and hopefully improve your skills in the process. The prizes are just there as an incentive.
I am going to personally thank every single person who submits an entry. Yes we're giving out prizes to recognize the very best of the best. For everyone who doesn't win however, don't think for a second that you didn't submit a killer map. I realize that mapping is first and foremost a hobby. So interest comes and goes with the tide. But I would hate to see an author drop out for something as silly as "didn't feel I could compete with the others, what's the point?". If you have to quit because of real life stuff, that's a lot more understandable. So in short, I'm hoping a lot more people will see this through to the end
Part of this is the sheer amount of talent we have in this community. It's easy to be disheartened when the wip thread above yours has 5+ pages. I want to stress that you shouldn't be doing this for any prize, or to genuinely compete with others. There is no bad blood here, and we're all interested in the same thing. You should be doing this as a chance to focus your efforts, be a part of something huge, and hopefully improve your skills in the process. The prizes are just there as an incentive.
I am going to personally thank every single person who submits an entry. Yes we're giving out prizes to recognize the very best of the best. For everyone who doesn't win however, don't think for a second that you didn't submit a killer map. I realize that mapping is first and foremost a hobby. So interest comes and goes with the tide. But I would hate to see an author drop out for something as silly as "didn't feel I could compete with the others, what's the point?". If you have to quit because of real life stuff, that's a lot more understandable. So in short, I'm hoping a lot more people will see this through to the end
