Board Game Arena

same problem

I wouldn't say you're bad, but in a 3-player game, the risk of getting Varans — or the chance of placing them on an opponent—is higher. You should take that more into account when making decisions. Kodamas are also very important, but I find the Whirlwind to be the strongest; it allows you to steal victory points from two opponents. Plus, completing a full circuit with a value of 9 is much easier and can quickly lead to victory if you're the last player in the round. Hope that helps a little bit.

I all agree!
Also, take in mind that you have to somehow reinvent your style! It always takes me a few games to switch from 2 to 3 players and vice versa.
In 3 players, effects are more unpredictible... So be prepared to change your strategy more often during the game.
But it can be super interesting! It can compensate, over a few games, a player playing randomly and favoring one or the other...