Game Groups > Gameplay feature: Auto-mapping

Games featuring a map that is drawn or updated automatically as the player explores or at least visits the immediate environment. The map should be previously unexplored and will open up as the player approaches unexplored regions or rooms. Maps may come in the form of an item or as a default in-game interface (sometimes located at the top right corner of the screen) or similar feature.

An explored region is usually represented by the identification of geographical terrain (mountains, forests, etc.), an outlined size of the explored room, permanent structures (towns, landmarks, etc.), important characters, or other similar points of interest. Some games may allow random encounters, events, and opponents to be viewed in these explored regions.

Explored and unexplored areas in the Dark Heart of Uukrul (1990).

Limitations

• Games where maps exist, however are by default explored should be excluded from this game group.
• Games where maps exist, however do not provide distinction between explored or unexplored regions should be excluded from this game group.
• Games where unexplored areas are gradually opened when the player explores them, however later returns to an unexplored state (similar to a fog of war feature) should be excluded from this game group.
• Radar, sonar, or similar devices are not to be considered as maps by any definition.