On most maps, you need to recruit a significant number of heroes. The "strike force" tactic – maximizing strength in a single slot – is effective. If Shanti isn't available, Galtran as a second hero can be an interesting option (almost a joke). For the first week, focus on building a strong strike force – upgraded Trolls are a good choice if you have enough resources. Dragon lairs are ideal, but a Minotaur lair can also be very helpful. Developing your primary castle is important, but it depends on the availability (or potential availability) of resources and the timing of capturing a secondary castle. If you capture a Barbarian secondary castle on the second turn and see a lot of wood, crystals, Gnomish mines (potential crystals), and a monster lair, build the Barbarian secondary castle and, after capturing the monster lair, build a summoning portal in your primary castle. Even if you only build the monster lair in your primary castle on the second week, with the lair and portal, you'll have 1+1+1+1+3+1=8 monsters by day 131 (!!!), and by day 141, you'll have 13 monsters!!!! already upgraded, plus Wyverns and Angels. If you capture a Swamp secondary castle early, consider building at least Wyverns there. However, everything ultimately depends on the map. Starting with Shanti is generally the best option.