I specifically remember a dev stating as response to alpha feedback that the lack of a minimap is intentional due to the exploration aspect of the game. I don't find it a necessity myself, in fact in some cases it can make you miss things you wouldn't otherwise. I didn't even notice that it wasn't there during alpha. Having said that, a way to take a look at the outline that you see while picking an exploration zone would be useful. Not that I cant just pull one up on my tablet, but still.