All Choice maps have be approved by a moderator - 5 compasses does not automatically assure the map will be a choice map and a lack of 5 compasses does not necessarily mean that a map will not be chosen as a choice map (although it's unlikely).

Schwarzkreuz hits the nail on the head when he says that part of the reason for having choice maps is to highlight gems which might get lost in the huge tide of maps coming through as well as to showcase some of the real beauties that the best of the guild (often, but by no means always professionals) on this board create. We also like to showcase a variety of styles and subject matter. Unfortunately putting up choice maps is a bit of an involved process and we haven't been as diligent as we should have been in keeping up to speed. So I've rewound to Van Nevan and we will be picking maps from that point onwards as choice maps going forward.