The BEST method I ever saw for determing turn order was in MB's Samurai Swords / Shogun. At the begining of each turn, players drew a numbered sword to determine turn order...HOWEVER, you could use some of your money (koku) that you would otherwise use to buy reinforcements, castles, or ninjas to bid for a sword preference. If you were anticipated a battle royal between two of your opponents, it was sometimes wise to bid and buy sword 4 (so you could swoop down on their depleted armies). On other occasions, playing first (taking advantage of the ruin that resulted from LAST turn) was critical.
An excellent game, with many excellent game mechanics.