... Whenever I start a random map, I seem to get the worst possible initial building layout possible. ... Is the best way to deal with this just to bulldoze and rebuild? ... Any pointers?
I think no one has ever understood the reason for the attenuated, slap-dash algorithm for the random map building locations. It is probably based on using the least amount of code possible. It certainly ranks among the poorest features of the game since it produces such completely unrational set-ups so consistently. The single good thing about it is that it changes rather than using a single set of fixed locations.
It would be considered the ultimate in cheats, but if you really like the map and hate the intial layout of your buildings, you can enable the map editor, bulldoze the palace and other buildings and place them where you wish.
NO -- it is not a "cheat" of any sort. It is the logical, serious player's workaround for an ugly flaw in the game.
There are three levels of this start-up workaround:
Simplist: Given that the Palace is in an O.K. place, with the game in PAUSE - one can use the 'Rapido' and 'Exacto' cheats to relocate the other buildings using the regular Building Mode and resetting the treasury starting balance before starting the calendar. Forget fiddling with the Shacks. The Almanac report on the first year finances will be screwed up, but that is not a long term, gameplay problem. The game requires a second Port and Construction Office be built before the originals can be bulldozed. This method uses the original people but causes them to be a bit confused for a month or so.
Intermediate: If the Palace is so badly located as to need moving, then proceed as Kendahlj suggests. This requires learning a moderate amount about the way the Editor works - especially regeneration of the map. Proceed only while paused, and 'Rapido' is activated. Again, the original people are used, and 'Exacto' is used to reset the starting treasury balance.
Most Complex: To cause the map to generate without people or buildings, press CTRL and SHIFT when clicking on 'Begin Regime' or on 'OK' in the last page of the dictator setup. Then PAUSE the game as quickly as possible when the map finishes generating. Then activate the Editor to place buildings and people. This requires some familiartiy and practice with the Editor. Most players who have learned how to do it, have found that it greatly adds to enjoyment of gameplay.
I have discussed refinements in other threads. There are issues about the story line, which buildings are "really" starting essentials (the Teamster Office is NOT), and a reasonable starting treasury balance.
