# MARCH INTO MAPNESS

## Introduction
Welcome to March into Mapness. We here at TGStation want to encourage new mappers into the development scene, and for that reason, we want you (yes, you!) to make a map. Don't worry, it's nothing huge, and we're here to talk you through the basics and assist you every step of the way. Oh, and did we mention- we've got some rewards up for grabs if your map gets merged! So, what are you waiting for?

## Rules and Conditions
1. The March into Mapness will run from the 7th of March, 2023 to the 1st of April, 2023.
2. The first merged map PR from each contributor **opened** between the two dates will earn an antagonist token for use on the TGStation servers, as well as a shoutout at the event's conclusion.
3. Merging is at the discretion of the maptainers, and is not guaranteed if the map does not pass quality standards (don't worry, we're accommodating and have plenty of volunteers ready to help you get your map up to standards).
4. Rewards will be handed out on the 1st of April, at the conclusion of the event.

## Getting Started
One of our maptainers, @San7890, wrote an excellent guide which will take you through the process of setting up git, cloning the repo, and the basics of using SDMM2 (which we recommend using for the purposes of this event):

[San's Mapping Compendium](https://hackmd.io/QBaz0CaTRhOp7pEnUlXnzQ?view)

As San notes, the best method for learning the ropes is to do. Not every project pans out eventually, but every project *does* provide valuable experience that can inform later design.

## What We're Looking For
We know that everyone wants to jump in and start on a large project. As much as we like the enthusiasm, starting with a large project is (usually) a recipe for disaster. For the purposes of this event, we'd like to encourage the production of new ruins and shuttles. Why? Well, a few reasons:
1. The smaller project size is more manageable for new contributors.
2. There are less strict requirements on these kinds of map when compared to on-station work.
3. We have a deficit of ruins and shuttles (especially ruins) on the codebase.

## Mapping Event Help
For the purposes of this event, we've set up a new channel, separate to the main mapping channel purely for newer contributors to seek feedback and help from senior contributors. This is #mapping-event-help. This channel will be moderated for the duration of the event to maintain on-topic discussion.

If you have specific questions that need a pressing answer, feel free to direct them to our friendly @maptainers:

@EOBGames (Emerald_or_Bust#1314)
@San7890 (San7890#7890)
@Vire/Maurukas (kas7#2839)
@mmmiracles (not a g'nome#2914)

Alternatively, our volunteers in the channel (@Events Mapper, @Senor Mapper, @Mapper) will also be willing to help.