oh and the AS is the smallest problem the bactrians have! I had to abandon my campaign because the saka rauka Invaded my homeland with Horse archers.
That's strange. I found Baktria very easy. The Parthians acted as a screen and all I had to do was guard one mountainous pass while I conquered India.

Back on Topic: I would choose Epeiros. They have the most interesting and different culture of all the phalanx nations. They also have a nice historical position, as a brand new kingdom, and a powerful king, Pyrrhos.

General Aetius