The map editor for StarCraft II is already being used by the RTS game's community to create some impressive custom maps. Now developer Blizzard has launched its first official StarCraft II custom map contest where the best of the custom maps for the game will be selected to be played at BlizzCon.

The contest is open not just to normal StarCraft II custom maps but maps that can change the gameplay of the title to an RPG, a third-person shooter or something else. Entries must be received by September 11. Three maps will be chosen and the makers of the three winning maps will get a free trip to BlizzCon 2010 in Anaheim, California in late October to see their custom maps played in the StarCraft II demo area at the show. Oh, and the winning map authors will also each get $5,000.