Among mapmakers, it has been a challenge to create a modern Echo Isles--chiefly, a mirrored symmetry map. There have been unpopular attempts, such as Rune Maul.
My personal opinion is that Tidehunters is already a successful neo Echo Isles...
But anyway, that was the "challenge" for me, in this map. I imagined Echo Isles receiving an "update" by extending the map downwards. That is, after the first natural expansion, the map continues with a further expansion.
I also have wanted to incorporate destructible rocks, and in this map I use them to delay natural access. The natural is in closer proximity than typical, an idea I have also been liking.
Other notes:
-I like strong consumables (L3/L4) being dropped by a higher level creep, a la Turtle Rock. I dislike how easily sniped they are on most modern maps, but I still like them being in the middle of the map to be fought over.
-I like expansions being easier to take.
I think that's enough discussion. Hope you enjoy.
Ciao bene, grazie!