Forming a Empire, where to start

[Martok]

There; I added in a "Gah!" option. Much better.

For me, it really will depend on who I'm playing -- obviously factions like the Dutch and British better lend themselves to a naval/trade empire stratagem, while nations like Austria and Russia will more heavily favor large land empires. (I can't wait to colonize Florida as the Ottomans, though. ) I'll also be keeping an eye on what everyone else is doing, and plan accordingly.

I'll grab the Dutch East-Indies (if they are in the game) and try to expand it

CA has said the East Indies are in as a "trade theater", but you can't actually colonize/conquer them. I'm afraid you'll have to plant your flag somewhere else.