Walkthroughs for custom maps.

I agree, Nautilus didn't envision such a Walkthrough. Although I suspect the wisdom in Pandorka for Dessa isn't just for show.
But it's twice as satisfying to find some non-trivial idea. Let's recall Xenia Firstblood's epic Walkthrough.

Added after 15 minutes
If we talk in general about the mapmaker's intent vs the Walkthrough, I'll note that it would be quite dull if the player had no options and could only follow the author's strategy.

Added after 36 minutes

a plot twist on Paragon, where the player is required to either give up 30 archs or fight Ghashra. The second option is obviously harder

Well yes, at one time Paragon seemed like a difficult map, although shooting Ghashra from the town doesn't exactly feel like hardcore. Waiting for when Rince pushes himself and delivers a truly difficult 3.0.