Thanks to Brusky0086 for the video feature!
Data Mine is an asymmetrical 4v4 map built for Slayer, Strongholds, Oddball and FFA set in the library of an ONI training academy. Please be quiet and respectful to those studying around you as you slay.
Data Mine - Version 1.8
I tend to forge symmetrical maps geared around CTF, so this map was an exercise in breaking out of my comfort zone and trying to do something different. To get started I sorted through a number of top down map layouts from Marathon, Bungie's predecessor to Halo. I figured that some of the same basic gameplay concepts would translate between those two games. The layout isn't a remake or copy of any map in that game, but it served as an inspiration when I was laying out pathing.
Some of the large 'server tower' elements are prefabs I recycled from a map I'd built a couple times but was never happy with and ended up scrapping. I liked the aesthetics I had going but in the end I decided to ditch the older maps and use the prefabs on a more deserving layout.
The map is based around a 4 way bridge junction in upper mid. Overshield spawns near the decal sculpture in top mid, which can also be accessed via a lift from underneath.
The decal structure in top mid. The glass in the center is actually a one way shield, and below it is a gravity launcher that takes you from bottom to top mid.
Through the door next to the sculpture is an elevated platform which contains a Plasma Pistol that overlooks Sniper spawn and has a sightline past the large pillar into back hall.
The Plasma Pistol spawns near the holo-table in top mid (viewpoint).
Sniper spawns in cafe, which is near viewpoint.
The Grenade Launcher spawns in a junction between back hall and the pillar room, closer to OS than the Sniper.
Plasma Caster spawns in the back hallway.
A Shotgun spawns below viewpoint, near a tunnel that takes you through a lift in the decal sculpture to top mid.
Shotgun spawn point.
All weapon clip sizes and spawn times are set to standard matchmaking requirements. For more information on the weapon set, check below:
Pads:
Plasma Caster - 120 sec
Sniper - 180 sec
Power Ups:
Overshield - 120 sec
Tier 2:
Shotgun - 10 after Despawn
Plasma Pistol - 10 after Despawn
Utility Weapons:
Halo 5 BR (x2) - 20 sec
Halo 2 BR (x2) - 20 sec
Brute Plasma Rifle - 20 sec
SMG (x2) - 20 sec
Light Rifle - 20 sec
Suppressor - 20 sec
As with all my maps, I'm open to feedback in any area and the map is subject to change over time as I play it more and make adjustments. Please BOOKMARK the map instead of saving a copy so I can push updates to you, and let me know if you have any thoughts in the comments below!