I used to like the map when I first started the game, however, that has since changed. I am with Kappa 100% as far as changing the color, I was 400 off of someone the other night and the only thing I could make out was his bright red tag above him.
This map is like flying on Mars or something. Gynormous hills and amazingly deep crevices, and no signs of life to be found at most times
As far as the distance between bases, I think its needed in this map, especially with 12k bases. You need those couple of sectors to get to a useable altitude.
Honestly though in my opinion this map is all about offense, pick a base with a close vehicle spawn, get about 10-15 guys together after 10 p.m. CST and start rolling. If someone starts getting in your way, don't hang around, just go elsewhere... You could take an entire island in a few hours

The downside is that it gets majorly boring after the first couple bases.
--Howitzer