So, is the meta with Pantheon "rush to get Ra"?

[sheppo]

Because it sure feels like that's how every game has gone.

[michaelHastriter]

I think the Meta is Race for science as stated by LE007n's data analysis. See "7WD through the numbers"

Follow these 5 priorities in order:

A) above all, don't let a player get 4 science in age 1
B) "Defend vs RA" try to set up RA by avoiding taking one of 2 cards covering an Egypt token, also avoid letting Divine theater get too cheap in age 1 (make them sacrifice for it if they really wanna pull that stunt)
C) don't let a player get 3 science in age 1
D) in the first 6 cards taken, value yellow cards over green cards, mid to late age 1, switch it to take green cards over the reserves, but tavern is still useful
E) "Offense with RA": Try to set up RA for yourself and have at least 8 coins going into age 2 so that you can take it, and threaten taking other Pantheon divinities with the remainder coin advantage. Try to start age 2 via first player trick usung 1 wonder, or even 2nd player.

RA is powerful but it really can mess up your own games when you don't get it, but the strategy I play, it doesn't really help my game. RA, Mars, and BAAl are like this. They don't help my strategy, but if used against me, they can sure ruin it.

[sheppo]

Thanks Michael. These were some very useful pointers. I'll check out LE007n's notes too.