ContinentLimit

ContinentLimit is a map file attribute in the video game series Total War, a real-time strategy (RTS) franchise developed by Creative Assembly. Introduced in the game Total War: Shogun 2, ContinentLimit restricts the maximum number of submaps that can be used in a single game.

The attribute is typically used to localize the map to a specific geographic region or to create a new continent. By limiting the number of submaps, the game's map editor can be used to design and manage smaller, more manageable areas of the game world, making it easier to create and balance maps for competitive multiplayer modes.

In Shogun 2, the default map was divided into several submaps to create a custom continent. Each submap was defined by its own set of geographical features, climate conditions, and other environmental factors. For example, a map designer might create a region with its own coastlines, rivers, and terrain configuration. This approach allowed for the creation of diverse environments and helped to increase the game's replayability.

Total War developers use ContinentLimit to tailor the game's maps to specific cultures, periods in history, or themes. By capping the number of submaps, designers can ensure that the game's environments are consistent with the cultural context and the desired gameplay experience.