High level players can also alter the distribution and the starting armies on spots, so for strategic templates, it would end up relatively balanced anyhow.
Correct me if I am wrong, but the map creator has all settings unlocked for their own map right?
Not sure about bomb card and commander, but I believe stuff like custom scenario and overridden bonuses is.
not from a map making standpoint. I always use negative bonuses on spots like those.
Another option that I see used is to make a 'buffer' territory. Since you have a port/sea connection, you can make a boat territory in the sea, which has a negative bonus value. But yes, as Thanos said, lot's of connections is often nerfed by having the bonus value be lower or even negative.
Edited 3/20/2020 08:21:24