Making Hard Choices

[legowarrior]

I have in front of me the hardest choice any one in dominions can make. What nation to play? I've got a game with ME Agatha, and one with ME (CBM) T'ien C'hi, but now I'm about to start a new game with Shatner in order to test out our ME Jomon Mod.

I am leaning to Shinuyama, but we might have one player that really wants to play that side, so I'm stuck.
I know I don't want to play a blood nation, and I'm not to keen on Sneaking (besides laying out a spy network), I don't want a water nation. I like ranged units, and heavy shields, but Man has very limited magic selection. So, I'm a little stuck on where to go.

So, with the little information I've provided, I wanted to see if someone has some insight on how I should go. I should note that my experience with the game is limited.

Thanks for your help in this matter.

Legowarrior.