The WeeWar Times

Map balancing in WeeWar is a tough job and there are many maps out there with varying degrees of bias – generally in favor of blue. Here are five tips to keep you from losing points due to a biased map:

1. Avoid small symmetrical maps with the same starting points (think Aruba). A small map can turn blue’s first move into an easy victory if played correctly (think Aruba) and some players have made a career by exploiting that.
2. Check the distance to "prize" bases.  Another form of first turn bias, the bases in the middle of a map that aren’t intended for either player could cost you the game if your opponent can get, take, and hold them before you would even have a chance.  Think in terms of troopers and hovercraft when looking at the capture and don’t forget how quickly your opponent could get air support in to fight you off.
3. Look at non-capturing units too!  If your opponent can move a raider or aircraft in your way or onto your recently captured base you could be a big disadvantage so don’t only look at the units that can capture.
4. Play both sides.  If something still looks fishy but you can’t nail it down then ask for a rematch with switched colors, or have two games going at once with opposite colors.  If there is a bias at least you’ll both be able to take advantage of it.
5. Check the forums.  You’re not the only one looking for signs of bias so check out this thread in the forums on biased maps

Forewarned is forearmed so pay attention to those 5 points.  Be sure to add maps you think are fair and fun to your favorites and remove any that show a heavy bias.  Do you have any other tips to find bias?