[quantum_mechani]

I very rarely use a pretender without use in combat, but there are still more intersting things to do than a standard SC. For instance a Van F9W4 moloch makes awesome artillery (quickness + fire darts), while making your sacred troops and commanders fighting machines. Also a different tactic is to use a monolith with 9S4W3N; research teleport, body ethereal, astral shield, and breath of winter (note: add fire for fire shield when facing undead nations). While it has some obvious drawbacks, it can be very powerful when used correctly.