Open in editor → Place player start locations → Save.
: To enter the built-in map editor, press F7 while in the game. This menu allows you to create a new map, save your progress, or load existing ones. settlers iv maps
Terraforming the Colony: An Exploration of Design and Strategy in The Settlers IV Maps Open in editor → Place player start locations → Save
| Map Name | Size | Difficulty | Why Play | |----------|------|------------|-----------| | | 128x128 | Easy | Balanced resources, no neutrals – great for learning economy. | | Four Islands | 192x192 | Medium | Requires navy and multi-island logistics. | | Iron Pass | 96x256 | Hard | Single narrow passage between players – pure land combat. | | The Dark Swamp | 256x256 | Expert | Limited wood, many neutral camps – survival challenge. | Terraforming the Colony: An Exploration of Design and
A common mapmaker trick is to place a "Weaponsmith" building on the map with no iron ore access. If you see this, the map is a Puzzle Map – you are not supposed to conquer; you are supposed to trade.
: An advanced version of the map editor created by MuffinMario that lifts original restrictions, allowing for more complex designs. Gameplay Mechanics on Maps
Terrain is not just aesthetic; it determines what you can build and where: