The reason I ask is because mapping entities, in a simple sense, is node based logic. You place blocks of logic to handle most of the raw code with a few inputs and parameters. UE4 has a 'Blueprint' mode that's essentially that. Node based material editors in 3D packages like Maya and Blender are quite popular, even Stencyl and its logic blocks lets you string your own logic together and writes raw code flawlessly.
If you're comfortable with mapping entities, there might be a kit you could use. Stencyl exports out to windows exe and it has tons of features that make the testing and publishing process really painless.
This is a behavior I wrote myself using drag-drop blocks. It detects if any "Bricks" are in an area using X and Y coords and a lot of if statements with greater than and less than comparisons.
All the blocks are laid out on the palette, and it's even searchable. There's a lot of information at my disposal.
The reason I'm pushing it is because I tried for a long while to make a game in Goldsource. Turnstile, 6D, and a few more failed attempts for example. I made the jump to stencyl and have been happy ever since.
My advice is refuse to live vicariously. Make the game you want to make. There are soooooo many tools available that make the process far more tolerable, sometimes easier. Truth be told, you would have help. You would never have to do any of this alone. I would help you, shit I'd share some SMJ tech.
I know it'll be a while so take the time to look and feel it out. We're all waiting patiently for The Core, but I'm more curious what you will be making after that.