It depends on what you want to play, as Theta said. For the storyline, you can play any race equally, but the beast races fit the storyline the least. Gender-wise, it's just easier to get through the main quest as a female. I know, I know. You're thinking I'm a perverted scumbag (which I won't deny), but there are at least two parts of the main quest where it's better to be female. I have two female characters, one of which is very close to completing the main storyline. She is an Imperial Barbarian under the Charioteer sign. The Imperials have two nice abilities. Voice of the Emperor lets you charm people, which is great, and the other ability lets you steal Fatigue points from enemies. That's freakin' shiny. I chose the Barbarian, because I like melee fighting. It's just more fun. Bash. Bash. Bash. Oh, and the Charioteer gives you an additional 20 (?) points to your Speed, which is just lovely. I mean, you got to be able to go fast. Dream ...