General’s Map: Isometric vs Top Down

Intro

I’m not sure which approach to take for the game map perspective. At first I wanted an isometric map, but now I’m starting to think that top down fits the theme more. But what is ‘isometric’ and ‘top down’?

2D vs 2.5D

A simple game map is in 2D. But the perspective of the map can differ.
In a simple top down perspective you are a bird looking straight down on the world. It often uses squares or hexagonal tiles. on wikipedia

A little bit more complicated isometric map uses rhombuses, which gives more of a 3D sense. You can, for example, take an angle of 45°. on wikipedia

The initial idea was that the player is a warlord, who tries to unite the land. So the map would give an overview on the land, the cities, etc

But, though the game mechanics stay the same, I like the theme of a “General’s Map”. The function of the map would stay the same: giving an overview of the land, and being the playing platform.

Now, should I change the perspective of the map to fit the (awesome) theme? What are the (dis)advantages of each approach?

The top down perspective

I think it will feel more like a map, but graphics will probably look worse than with an isometric map.
It’s easier to make than an isometric map.

The isometric map

I think the player will feel more “in the game (map)” instead of just “looking at the game (map)”. Also, graphics will probably be better.
It’s not much harder to make than a top down map.
What do you think? I haven’t decided yet.