atlant108
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Let's say you didn't know the exact release dates of the maps when you suggested your version of the list. But I still don't understand why you assured me in a private message that the release dates for all the maps were confirmed:
The initial list I posted had 10-12 more maps than it does now – but over time, I removed some of the maps that contained bugs, critical errors or simply wouldn't open. Then I removed a couple of maps that would open, but couldn't be completed. After that, I started checking the release dates, but apparently missed a few maps that I mentioned above. So, I had to check again. I didn't want to mislead anyone – if someone was offended and angry with me because of this, then I ask them not to hold a grudge.
I don't know about everyone else, but my best reward for such a "hobby" is gratitude and positive feedback on my work. And 25-100 (taking a very low estimate) rubles, which several users will donate out of an outburst of delight from the map, is a pleasant little thing, but it doesn't really improve my mood much, except maybe allowing me to buy some trinket. The motivation is weak for mapmakers.
I understand you. For you, the main thing is the pleasure of the mapmaking process itself. Well, reviews and thanks for completing the maps are your best motivation.
the chances that someone will voluntarily donate, and even that the donation will be more than just a symbolic ruble
We all know about a YouTube channel like: Heroes for fan. This channel is run by Remix. I often watch his streams. He plays through scenarios (campaigns) created by other authors - while he himself does not create maps. On average, he has 1 new playthrough every day.
So, I have often observed how completely unfamiliar people sent him donations of 300, 500, 1000, and even 2000 rubles – they simply enjoyed watching him play. Should we consider them weirdos after this? I don’t think so; they are simply expressing their gratitude in this way. He also doesn't mind. In the end, everyone is happy.
There are only a few active users who visit the contests, I don't know if any of them will thank the authors financially.
There are not many people on the forum who write messages and create topics, but there are quite a lot of those who view and download maps.
Take a look yourself – let's go to the page with maps:
/forum/section/159/
Scenario[L]: "Runes in Good Hands" – 56 replies, 1340 views. Although this scenario was posted recently, it has already been viewed by 1340 people! That's pretty good!
Let's move on:
Scenario[M]: "Heart of Night" – 27294 views!
Scenario[XL]: "The Fall of Shantiri" – 52206 views and only 77 replies!
Scenario[L]: "Journey" – 154290 views!
In general, there are many worthy maps, scenarios, and campaigns uploaded to the forum. Often, when discussing one map or another, the question is asked whether the author will continue the scenario or campaign. The authors would be happy to return to creating maps again, but many of them don't have time for that now - they lack time, money, and have a lot of work, etc. Therefore, material encouragement would be an additional incentive for them