Samatron, while improving the map, don't overdo it by restricting artifacts and spells: after all, to unearth the Grail, you can only reach that location by air! Otherwise, the only remaining option for victory will be to defeat everyone.
BIG, it's good that you've figured everything out. Yes, everyone has different strengths and tastes. Just the other day, someone on another forum was asking for maps where you have to play for several dozen months! A maniac... :)