Matt explains in broad details the basic mechanics behind the upcoming Game of Thrones second edition and then breaks down his thoughts on the first four houses: Night's Watch, Stark, Baratheon and Targaryen! There is a lot of info in here, and Matt will be back next week with the second half!
The unique Direwolves are loyal (so Like Warm Rain is bad out of faction).
Also, card distribution means there will be very little choice in the main deck beyond factions (we'll be able to cut fewer than 5 cards). So the real choices will be in the plot deck.
I don't see the color pie that you mention in the article.