(GotFrag) - The recent run of cp_broma in CEVO has highlighted a shortcoming in our little game - namely, the lack of decent, balanced, competitive maps. This is obviously not an new problem nor an overlooked one, as mapmakers bend all their skill and effort into making the next cp_badlands, or cp_granary, or cp_gravelpit. The sad truth is that the last decent map released/supported by Valve was ages ago (cp_badlands), as all their officially-backed maps since (cp_fastlane, cp_steel, cp_junction) haven't quite found the same level of success.

The solution? Keep looking! One may gripe over cp_broma's relative merits, but the simple truth is we could never have learned whether or not it was a terrible map until we threw it out there on the rotation or did some god honest map testing. Lately, there's been a flurry of new map announcements on the GotFrag TF2 Forums, of which I collected a smattering for those who missed em:

cp_resonance_b5
created by: scorpiouprising
GotFrag Discussion Thread
FPSBanana.com Site & SS's | Download

- Still in beta, cp_resonance seems to be one with the most potential in my mind. With an art style akin to tc_hydro, it's your basic 5-point push map with an active mapper who's eager to improve and alter at the suggestions of the community.

cp_pro_dustbowl_b1
created by: ArgonLaser
GotFrag Discussion Thread
Download

- A remake of cp_dustbowl with the major flaw of its predecessor removed - namely, the final stage. Also still in beta and also with a creator who's ready and willing to make the necessary changes, the map could potentially bring the glory of cp_dustbowl back without the 2-to-3 hour slogfest that came with it.

cp_furnace_a2
created by: Youme
GotFrag Discussion Thread
SS #1, SS #2 | Download

- A cp_gravelpit-inspired map (in fact, more than inspired, it's almost a copy though with some interesting capture point changes) still in its early stages of development, I can't really see how this couldn't be a successful map if it's so careful mirroring cp_gravelpit. Only in alpha, things could still change dramatically, but hey... still not a bad lookin' thing :)

cp_erosion_b2
created by: ikem
GotFrag Discussion Thread
Screenshots | Download

- A map that perhaps is the most risky, based on its vertically-minded design, and may need more tweaks to give non-flying (ie. Medic) characters the same mobility options as Soldiers & Demo. But still, an interesting new look/design and an active mapper available to make changes.

cp_silvertrail_a6
created by: Ravidge
GotFrag Discussion Thread
TF2maps.net Discussion Thread & SS's | Download

- Another cp_gpit-inspired map with the alpine design which I can't help but want to see more of (mountains are so pretty). The creator has been dying for feedback on where and how to tweak this one, since at the moment it's a little barren and could use some well-placed cover/accessories. I think I like this one the best, it's got a great feel it in even in alpha.

So there you have it! Five new maps that have recently received some praise in our own community, and are in dire need of scrimming and constructive criticism.