Custom-built multiplayer maps are one of the oldest, most venerated forms of game modding, but most never see a wide release, available only to those who specifically seek them out.

Now, aspiring map-makers have the chance to get one of their creations in front of a wide audience, thanks to *Heroes of Newerth'*s Expanding Sol's Theater contest. As of August 1, users can submit their custom maps for the multiplayer online battle arena game. The winning entry will be added to the game as a playable map, and a cool $10,000 is up for grabs for the top submissions.

Like its brethren League of Legends and Dota 2, Heroes of Newerth is based upon Defense of the Ancients, which itself began as a custom map for Blizzard's real-time-strategy game Warcraft III. The two teams' objective is to push into their opponents' territory and destroy their central stronghold.

The map making contest takes place over multiple stages. The first part asks modders to submit a proposal of their map idea, including a description, units involved, storyboard of the game mode, and expected production time. The top eight entries win $250 each, based upon the proposals' fun potential, feasibility, complexity, and overall appeal.

The next stage, taking place September 5 through October 17, requires the eight finalists to submit a working version of their map, as well as a video explaining the its various functions, units, and how to play. For this stage, team leaders are allowed to recruit volunteers to help with production.

Winners will be announced on November 7, based upon combined voting from the Heroes of Newerth community and development team. Second and third place take home $2,500 and $1,500 respectively, while the first prize winner gets $4,000—and their map will receive a studio-quality overhaul before being implemented into the game.