Newbie who chose Land of the Bakemono

[sector24]

I would stick with the nation as long as possible. Either until you are defeated by the AI or the turns take so long to complete you feel like starting over. You will learn a lot no matter what nation you play, don't worry about "missing out" on anything.

There was a big thread just a little while ago about the best nation to start with. The preference was generally nations with powerful national troops; Niefelheim, Hinnom, even Abysia. They let you focus on how to play the game without worrying too much about losing.