Anno 1701 Map Editor 2021 Guide
Here is information regarding the map editor for Anno 1701 (also known as 1701 A.D. in North America).
1. The Heightmap (Terrain Sculpting)
- Raise/Lower: Standard sculpting. Use soft brushes to avoid steep cliffs that the AI cannot pathfind on.
- Smoothing: Critical for coastlines. A rough coastline will look ugly and prevent ship docking.
- Water Level: You cannot "raise" water, but you paint "Depth." Light blue = shallow (ship accessible). Dark blue = deep ocean.
Workflow: How to Create a Basic Map
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Launch the Editor – Find Anno1701_MapEditor.exe in the game folder (<install_path>\Anno 1701\MapEditor).
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Choose Base Template – Start from a blank ocean, a random island seed, or an existing map. anno 1701 map editor
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Generate or Sculpt Islands
- Use the terrain brush to shape an island.
- Add fertility zones and mineral deposits via the resource panel.
- Paint textures and place trees for aesthetics.
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Arrange the Archipelago
- Add multiple islands, ensuring a balance of large main islands and small resource outposts.
- Place shallows to limit large ship access if desired.
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Set Player Start Positions
- Assign each player a starting island and warehouse location.
- Optionally pre-place buildings or ships for campaigns.
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Add Scenarios and Objectives (optional)
- Open the script editor to define quests or victory conditions.
- Link events to in-game triggers like reaching 1000 settlers.
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Save and Export – Save as .map file, place it in the Maps folder (usually My Documents\Anno 1701\Maps).
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Test in Game – Launch Anno 1701, select “Continuous Play” or “Scenario,” and choose your custom map. Here is information regarding the map editor for
Creating a Quest Map
- Go to Edit > Trigger Editor.
- Condition:
Player enters area (Define a circle around a specific rock outcropping).
- Action:
Spawn pirate ship + Give player 5,000 gold.
- Result: The player sails near the rock, gets ambushed by a pirate, but gets a reward if they survive.