[Question] Getting started with map design

[poopybaby]

I've had this game idea for a while and I'm wanting to bring it to life. I've heard that it's best to start with something before recruiting others to help, and I was thinking map design could probably be the thing I'm best with. However I don't really know how to get started. What are good tools for map creation, and how do I make a new map rather than edit an existing one?

 

[Anthro]

Have you decided what the "base" of your game is? Depending on if it's a ROM hack or a fan game, the tools would be different.
If you've never worked on something like this before, I'd recommend working with Essentials, as it's the best entry-level tool for waking a pokemon game as far as I'm aware.