There are around 6 looks to choose from, the Arnold Schwarzenegger look is about as normal as you get. The start screen shows a current map of the four nations, which are represented by the colors green, purple, orange and blue. The nations all have their proper names, but are more commonly referred to by their nicknames - frogs, grapes and smurfs. Orange doesn't have a nickname yet, so lets hope the open beta people can come up with a good one. Because you can see the map as it currently stands, you probably get a lot of people joining the winning side.
Statistics are a very nice addition to the game.
Everyone who has played any role-playing games will be immediately familiar with assigning statistics, normally put in attributes like Wisdom, Intelligence, Dexterity and the like. At the start screen you get to choose where to put your starting points. Clout affects how much experience your units make in battle. Clout also gives you access to more powerful units earlier on. Education allows you to equip your units with more powerful weapons, and better sources of power.