Download custom maps through steam

[Sensemann]

Okay, I don't know if this should go to the modding forum as the question/suggestion I have is related to the general game/steam mechanics.

Given the fact that more and more maps are coming from the community, it's a shame to see that many people don't know about content additions. I assume that most players are not aware of the forums and so have hardly a chance to get to know about new maps. I remember in RO 1, it was also tough to connect to servers which were running other versions of maps (remember Arad real forrests, eh?).

However, steam might do the trick and if TWI would do the community a favor, please consider this:

Once a month, or once every 2 months, depending on the speed of new content releases, TWI could force an update via Steam to download maps made by the community.

I totally understand the risk or concerns the developer can have by releasing content that's not theirs and if the quality of a map is poor, damage their reputation. BUT, there are certain ways to work around:

1. new custom maps could be made available through the forums and tested. Make a vote for each map and see if the community here likes it. If the feedback is positive, add it. Allow updates/patches for the maps to be downloadable via steam as well at a later stage

2. On the loading screen of the map (instead of giving the advise and Tips), make a small but large text that says sth like: "This map was done by modders. TWI is supporting the modding community by distributing these maps, but will, under no circumstances, be in charge for....". Sth like that. I think you get my meaning


It's a shame that Ogledow and Butovo are very well-made, but not played much. I sometimes see servers with 40-50 people on it, but after loading one of the 2 maps, only 10 players are left, because they have the maps.
I also think I remember one dev saying that updates through steam are free of charge.
Another advantage would be: Steam updates are downloaded to the right folders and so, people that are not able or do have trouble with correctly moving the folders to the right paths, won't face these issues.

TWI, please consider doing this. This would be a super big help for the community and a customer service, most if not all, would appreciate!

What do you guys think?