This is a really simple question, and just something I was wondering. My map that I submitted for the Hub of the Dead contest, "Dead Village" is why I'm asking this. A forger by the name of NFX Monsta told me that my map layout was very "unorthodox", and this is something I know. It's not a map layout you'll usually find in matchmaking, I like to use the word "unique". In my opinion, if it has good spots for holding out, and is balanced with spawning and weapon placement, and has good aesthetics, it works. So I'm curious, do you think an "unorthodox" infection map is a bad thing? Does it depend? I'm curious to hear what you all think as it'll help me know what to do in the future.
I think an unorthodox map is great as long as it still plays well. It makes a map more unique and memorable to be unorthodox. Not that orthodox is bad, but being unique is a great thing. You have to be careful to avoid the flaws of some designs though, there is sometimes a reason people don't usually do that design. If you were to play slayer on a blank canvas that map would be "unorthodox" but that doesn't make it any good. Some of the worst maps are unorthodox, but some of the best are too.
being different is overrated, especially for the sake of being different. sometimes doing what has already been done better than everyone else is in itself unorthodox. but i mean it's always good to see less two base-two tower and room-based asyms. a unique design that failed deserves more praise than something safe that succeeded.
It's definitely about gameplay. As long as the map flow is fine and there are no obvious exploits then an unorthodox layout is probably a good thing I'd say. You should submit your map to @Ascend Hyperion 's Thursday Thirteen for testing as well as @Zandril 's lobbies.