An Engine Standard For Map/mod Support
is being discussed at inside3d atm.
It would basically take existing fixes/features like extended map limits and a number of modder features, plus skybox support etc. and standards for external resources, and bundle those, and declare that TEH STANDARD.
A mapper could then just say, "this map requires a STANDARD compatible engine" instead of "needs some modern engine". There would be a hard target. Hopefully, this would also encourage modders to use more modern features, instead of just targeting GLQuake out of resignation.
In a later step, more could be added like an enhanced BSP format.
Metl, Lord Havoc and others have posted pretty detailed lists of map limits etc. that would have to be increased, and some modder features to include.
More input is needed, like what (mapping, modding) features would you like to see supported, which is why I'm posting this here.
http://forums.inside3d.com/viewtopic.php?t=1903