[Hoplosternum]

I like Chris's method although it will take some time. It will also allow people to theme/coordinate their team more. As they will know what they have for their first pick before they make their second. And see how the other teams are forming.

But it does take longer of course.

I would not worry too much about the AIs. Popular choices are likely to be those with good Thugs and Mages which the AIs will use badly rather than good troops that it will use well. Plus a lot of boosts can be given by map commands. Gandalf could start each with 100 of their best troops (or indeed any type of troops from any age) or more. Plus some kitted out Thugs etc. Which should boost them at the beginning at least.