Here's Jigsaw's 3 cents:

Candidate 1 - As a newer member I probably wouldn't want someone who didn't take much noitce of the newbies. I like their unique personality but I will have to pass. I would probably pm this person or leave them a user note and ask why they don't interact with newer members.

Candidate 2 - I am partial to this person but then again we have to respect those who have been on the site for a long time. In time I think they would grow to become an excellent candidate but now would not be their time.

Candidate 3 - I'd say this person 'stands out' the most of any of the other people for their involvement in the game forums. It seems that the leaders of this site care a good deal about their game forums and that those should be well covered by staff. I would go for this person.

Candidate 4 - Almost the opposite of #3, but I think a very good candidate. It just depends on which direction we want to go. Their previous anti-staff nature doesn't seem to be a concern now. Having a popular, active member on staff can be a plus because it gives staff energy and better knowledge of various social circles. An inside-man if you will.

Candidate 5 - It is always good to have someone with some energy and enthusiasm. However, being a mod does mean you will have to take some verbal abuse, and I don't know if this person can handle it. I would pass on them for now and wait and see if they improve in this regard.

So I would vote for either #3 or #4.