This is one of the few games offered that have tempted me to play (as me).
So just to toss in my 2-cent opinons.
Dawn is a good map but might be limiting here. Id prefer a really large random map. Especially if modded nations are added as it can drive the number of players quite high. Most know that I prefer maps with high mountains in order to generate more choke points. I think those AAR well. Like this...
http://www.dom3minions.com/RandomMaps/TriMega.jpg
Normally I like what VPs do to games but how would you AAR it? How do you recognize a VP in role? "I am proceeding toward the important province to the north"? Unless the VPs are just capitals of course, then its simple.
Heros mod would be good, nations would be fine. Im not sure if any others would be a good idea (except maybe single age if there is enough interest).
I prefer Era 1, Hall of Fame 15, Renaming on, Indepts 9, magic sites higher than average for AAR. Maybe noscoregraphs for AAR sake.