Seeking advice

[Dogboy]

It has been years since I played Dom3, but three friends and I have decided to set up a game, for old times sake.

1. Is there general agreement on a mod that we should definitely use?

2. How big a map would be fun for 4 players? Any suggestions? Shadowshore and Stone Haven look beautiful, but perhaps too big? Any favorites?

Shadowshore (120 land, 13 water)
Stone Haven (108 land, 18 water)
Others that look nice...
Silent Seas (45 land, 15 water)
Urgaia (51 land, 8 sea)
Blessed Isle (75 land, 11 sea)

3. I'm thinking early or mid era, to allow plenty of magic.

Anything else I should be sure to decide now?

Thank you!
DB