One thing I never see mentioned is the safety factor added when being clipped in. I find my ability to start at intersections greatly hindered if I am not clipped. I use a platform-style shimano pedal with mountain bike shoes. Occasionally I will ride down to 7-11 or somewhere in my sneakers and I hate stopping and then trying to get my pedal positioned correctly for a quick start up.

Mountain bike shoes have the cleat recessed into the bottom of the shoe so you can walk in them. Nice if you want to stop for a coffee or a smoothie. Many "roadies" wear mtb shoes for this reason. I think mtb pedals have more "float" or the ablity to pivot your foot a little w/o unclipping. Shoes and cleats must be matched with the pedal you choose.

Shimano has a multi-direction release cleat that pretty much releases in any direction. This is an option if you are concerend about technique. I will probably try out a pair soon, as a mtb'er I get in lots of situations where a quick release is crucial. (But I still crash...)

Some pedals have a little thing that clips in and makes it a platform. There are also "campus" pedals that clip on one side and are a platform on the other. So there are lots of options. If you go the clipless route spend a lot of time practicing in a safe place, like on the grass at the park (I am assuming with your dirt roads you won't be on a road bike with little skinny tires).

Most of all, have fun and get fit!