I dont think i agree with ur take but it is somthing to consider.
I think u by now only calculate the current player base. which ur scenario would be true.
from what I suggest these servers or similar prolly already exists with heavy modding. The reason i suggest a non-mod approach by for instance making diffrent or same maps by just changing the game mode.
is so that once announced by Funcom it might pick up an eye or two instead for a new player will have to READ and Look-into mods.
I think its a simple idea that can pick up new players.