There is an imbalance across the ages with respect to armor and archery.
There is also an imbalance with respect to gem distribution. EA nations 'need' gems more than LA. So depending on what site setting is chosen EA (typically) gets the short end of the stick. LA in a site rich world has that much more of an advantage, with (usually) better troops (think xbows and armor) as well as easier access to forgings and summonings.
I'm not completely opposed to it, and it somewhat depends on the nations in question as well, obviously.
So I guess that then begs the question of what site setting you are expecting to use? Because that should influence peoples choices (or could) as to which age nation they prefer to choose.
Or I'm just over thinking it, and whatever is the most fun will work
