Last night I got to playing around with some python, trying to edit some map scripts, and since I'm a developer by day, figured it could be interesting to try out actually making my own map (and as most projects I think of go, run into some troubles, and develop a newfound respect for people who actually get a map that works and looks good). But I digress...

Anyways, is there anything out there to help test the maps generated, that's not just continuously starting a new game and opening up the map in worldbuilder? Even something that renders a completely stupid looking 8 bit map would at least shorten the turnaround time considerably. Thanks for any help in me getting started!

Best thing I know is to use the worldbuilder and click the regenerate map button therein.

You can run your script through python outside of the game as long as you don't include any game specific function calls. If you look in the FfH section there is a mapscript call Mountain Coast, he generates maps outside of the game for testing so you can get a good idea of how to structure your code and handle the console output.

Edit: And here's a link to save you the trouble- http://forums.civfanatics.com/showthread.php?t=305364

I think he even discusses exactly how he does it a few pages in.