Since the release of King of the Hill, excited to see what the community might add to the new gametype. In the Unreal Tournament scene, KotH was only on the fringes, so I waited hopefully for great TF2 content which should prove what the Mapper community really can do.

To put it simply, KotH is a simplified version of CP, reducing the ControlPoints to just 1. In my opinion, it should be about time now for the mapping community to bring out something hand-tight.

After numerous rounds in changing between sawmill, nucleus and viaduct, I thought this was the right time to dig up some real great stuff and give it what it deserves: Fame and glory! ...and a little review.

So I wandered around in the net, looking for a King of the Hill map in it's final-state which represents what makes the KotH gametype special. Something which should receive a permanent spot on all voting lists!

The yield was humble, but I found what I was looking for! Among other promising projects, innovative ideas, stunning atmospheric levels, and those I personally am looking forward to; there was one map which caught my eye and which really I want to examine carefully:

Follow up:

KOTH_Moonshine

When I tested the map for the first time, the atmosphere caught me instantly. The swamp-content has on par excellence and the overall impression is clear and coherent. It is a bit dark, but anything else would have harmed the map's style.

Very important: The gameplay and the map's structure. Here we find a classic setup which is related to KotH_Viaduct: The spawn rooms are located adverse, each with two ways to approach the main controlpoint, which is located in the center of the level. The layout is symmetrical, the only difference between the teams are colors and textures.

A characteristic for this map is that the main control point area's offset is a bit on one sided, splitting up the middle spot in the control point area, with a huge flooded swamp-areal and a narrow bridge at the other side of the map. In combination with the other catwalks around the main area, we have a good spot for snipers and defense.

Many indentations provide great spots for support by the Engineer's teleporter, supplies, or even attack/defense of the main controlpoint. Good engineers will find enough ways to build up a strong frontline.
Playercount should not exceed 26 players. Due to the comparatively small play area, the optimal playercount should be 24 or less. For 32 Player, the map is way too open.

As stated in the interview with the swamp contest's winners, the swamp-style fits great into the TF2's style and the combination of classic industrial buildings, wooden warehouses and the swampy setting works pretty well in this map. All necessary TF2 Elements are present althought  this map still has a unique character to it.

Conclusion: Every server featuring the KotH Gametype should add this map to their list! A unique style and a great flow guarantee that this level can be played for hours.

Now, please tell us what you think! Comment what you like or dislike about this map.

Do you think we might have missed something? You know of other great KotH Maps? Tell us! Send your links to jarateed@treasure-fortress.com or use the submitting-form!