How about generating map cells using some deterministic algorithm, and then only storing a map value if for some reason it is "different" than what is generated algorithmicly.
For example, if you have large empty continents, with certain locations of interest, why bother storing all those empty spaces... Just generate it algorithmicly on the fly.
Also, does every cell need all kinds of individual information??? I mean, couldn't you have a generic "desert" cell, or a generic "swamp" cell, or something like that... and only use specific individualized cells for critical areas?
For example, if you have large empty continents, with certain locations of interest, why bother storing all those empty spaces... Just generate it algorithmicly on the fly.
Also, does every cell need all kinds of individual information??? I mean, couldn't you have a generic "desert" cell, or a generic "swamp" cell, or something like that... and only use specific individualized cells for critical areas?