What's the tech-situation looking like vis-a-vis each potential opponent? Also you didn't mention attacking TheBlackSword, or just settling (if he hasn't already) that weird sub-continent behind him. Not that either of those are particularly viable ...
I think the relative tech-balance will be the most important factor in determining a target, and that fighting mackoti both would be ideal and is inevitable (so might as well do it on our terms). Let's face it, we can't win the game with him alive; if we choose to attack someone else it should be with the understanding that by doing so we are building up a better base with which to attack mackoti later. So I say we attack mackoti if technologically possible. If not, I'm not sure.
Also we must remember any one (or more) of these opponents may be plotting to do the exact same thing to us. I don't know how to apportion resources so as to have both the overwhelming amount necessary for the offence and the amount necessary for a robust defence simultaneously.
That was a very good breakdown, Fintourist.
I think the relative tech-balance will be the most important factor in determining a target, and that fighting mackoti both would be ideal and is inevitable (so might as well do it on our terms). Let's face it, we can't win the game with him alive; if we choose to attack someone else it should be with the understanding that by doing so we are building up a better base with which to attack mackoti later. So I say we attack mackoti if technologically possible. If not, I'm not sure.
Also we must remember any one (or more) of these opponents may be plotting to do the exact same thing to us. I don't know how to apportion resources so as to have both the overwhelming amount necessary for the offence and the amount necessary for a robust defence simultaneously.
That was a very good breakdown, Fintourist.