[Andre]

Regarding balance issues and who goes first, I guess that's a whole 'nother layer of game on top of the game. Each player is giving information to the other about tactics for the race each is playing. Isn't it a 2-way street? And learning/adapting your strategy is always a factor. There are copy cat strategists that learn poorly, and will lose more often to the better learner.

Having your opponent beat you with a race you find unfavorable, may make that race become your new favorite. And if the "trick" to winning with that race just became obvious for the first time, then it could be argued that starting the next game right away is in your opponent's favor, but waiting a long time (days) could also be to his advantage b/c you may forget the feel of his tactics.

What's your favorite way to play the game of who goes first? Maybe let your opponent choose his race and the map first, then you get to counter with your choice of race last. Then switch roles for the 2nd game.