I clicked on the links before reading your description and I didn't initially notice any similarity between Map 2 and Westeros/Essos!
I also prefer Map 2, but would recommend you add more features to the large NE landmass to break up the uniformity (you're probably already planning that, though).
One other suggestion I'd make is to complete your rough map and then set it aside. I find many people dedicate time to the surface details of their realm (geography, city names, country names, etc.) but then neglect the aspects that give a world its richness and vibrancy. I rarely look at the map in ASOIAF because I'm so engrossed in the cultures, traditions, legends, and peoples of Westeros. That's where a worldbuilder's focus should be, in my opinion.
Of course, if it's your goal to just make an awesome map, then ignore the above! I look forward to seeing the final result.
I clicked on the links before reading your description and I didn't initially notice any similarity between Map 2 and Westeros/Essos!
I also prefer Map 2, but would recommend you add more features to the large NE landmass to break up the uniformity (you're probably already planning that, though).
One other suggestion I'd make is to complete your rough map and then set it aside. I find many people dedicate time to the surface details of their realm (geography, city names, country names, etc.) but then neglect the aspects that give a world its richness and vibrancy. I rarely look at the map in ASOIAF because I'm so engrossed in the cultures, traditions, legends, and peoples of Westeros. That's where a worldbuilder's focus should be, in my opinion.
Of course, if it's your goal to just make an awesome map, then ignore the above! I look forward to seeing the final result.