new maps...why so many linear corridors?

[Sapphires]

I really miss good map designs in XI, my main complaint with seekers of adoulin is the number of wilderness maps that have few and far between worthy landmarks and are just a bunch of corridors.

Even with the release of Outer Ra'zaknar, I was extremely disappointed in the actual layout of the map.
The color choice, modeling and mood of the environment is good, but its just a bunch of square rooms connected with a bunch of hallways with random dead-ends.
Its just a total immersion breaker, I can't imagine what powerful/intelligent race/being would commission the construction of something like this.

Now if you go back and look at previous expansion zone design, you'll find more thoughtful and structured architecture that seems to have actual purpose and symmetry to it.
One of the most obvious zones to illustrate this would be The Garden of Ru'Hmet from Chains of Promathia.
Other zones from zilart such as Ro'Maeve and Tu'Lia, and the Hall of the Gods were thought provoking in their layout, use of construction material. monster selection and mood, and tied into the storyline very well.

From Treasures of Aht Urghan, indoor areas like alzadaal undersea ruins, the outdoor overlook locations and unique spots in various zones that tied in with the picture taking quest "Get the Picture" felt like they were made with a strong over arching theme and were tied together.

Any further area additions to Seekers of adoulin, the devs really should look to those aforementioned examples and try to create something special. I'd happily wait alittle longer for better designed environments than what i've seen so far.

[Olor]

I can't imagine what powerful/intelligent race/being would commission the construction of something like this.

Human game designers - their ways are mysterious. How dare we question their eldrich ways.

[I agree with this thread - SOA areas manage to be even less interesting for the most part, than the RESKINS that were part of Wings of the Goddess - unfortunately I don't see anything being done about it ever, so...]