We've been discussing this in the forums, and a lot of people seemed to want a 'themed' contest, and a lot seemed to want 'flat-shaded' maps. Some peons even wanted texture limitation, and I personally wanted to have 'incorrect dimensions'.

So, seeing as we're a democracy ruled by a dictator, we're going to have a themed competition, but what the theme is is up to you. Flat shaded, texture limitation, concept art again, too big/too small, whatever- make a map with some kind of twist to it. It's the last HL competition we're ever going to have, so go for it and make your last ever HL map! The only limitation is it should be a playable Half-Life Deathmatch map (i.e. have weapons and player starts, and not have stupidly high r_speeds). You can "retheme" existing, released maps if you want, but we will be biased against them unless there's a fairly radical change (this rule doesn't apply to existing but unreleased maps).

Bearing in mind it is the summer and a lot of people will be having exams, the deadline will be set for Sunday 1st August. Of course, should HL2 come out before that (you never know..!) the date will be changed. We'll also see about prizes and getting the entries properly judged this time! And seeing as it's quite a long time, we'll let you submit up to two maps.

If you're a bit confused or have any questions/comments, visit this forum thread. Entries sent to competition@snarkpit.com please!