Friends only games

So you would play with 0 XP and Have everything unlocked within your server? But also lock everything in "real play?" On different servers?

I have created a dozen community experieces. Every one allows you to start the server with just one person. Some allow you to turn bots on or off or switch teams. It's a variety.

Unique Maps and Portal Love | EA Forums - 12909480

Ya but does portal allow you to start with a blank canvas?

If I wanted to create a jungle map.... Are the assets there?

You are limited to the assets of the level. Each level has specific assets already in the game. You have to use what is already in the game because you can't force people's computers to download new assets. Could you imagine the security, TOS, licensing, and performance implications otherwise?

It worked for star wars outcasts back in the day....

It worked for lots of things back in the day. Times have changed and people are more protective of their IP and more afraid of litigation.

Back on topic: you can still start servers with few people with or without bots.

Ok how? Creating "verified" modes such as rush or conquest require a minimum of 20 players regardless of human or bots, to launch. Selecting backfill results in only 10 bots joining so we need 10 real humans to  launch

I gave you a link. Join any of those that suit your desires.

How? Not verified-mode. You said you don't care about XP or any compromises required to get what you want.

How? Custom AI. You get bots without a limit to player count. You can play with as few as 1 human.

Again, I provided a link.