This map is pretty unforgiving. Not many options of bettering one's position after a failed start. Especially true for the snow region. Those who fail to conquer the Mammoth city in 3 turns, fail to do that permanently. Then you're not only 1/3 weaker than your opponents, you also lost your hope for mobility. Also I, for instance, chose crows in my capital - seemed like a good idea. Then learned the city to the north is guarded by elves...
Big regions, sparse cities - not much to do.