I played as Massalia. My game strategy was early blitz to Spain. Expand fast using cheap hoplites and mercs for 1 battle when needed. I didn't care about Rome at all because i considered war with them unavoidable. But do not take Genua and didn't become Rone neighbour, it can lead to war with Rome earlier then you need. After thureos reform i assambled my armies moustly with thureoforoi anvil and 4 shoc cav hammer+mounted general and probably with 2 tar. cav. I traveled thru the sea and landed near Rome and captured it nex turn to evoid War in Italy script.