by chally
Hi Lucas. I have only played 6 times, so take what I say with a grain of salt.Most races will upgrade something in the first round (just not neccessarily in the first turn). By the end of the round, the Giants should not be in a demonstrably different position than any other race.
As you note, constructing a dwelling for 7 workers and $2 (which then necessitates an early pass) initially seems unwise when compared to upgrading to a fortress and then building a dwelling for 7 cubes and $11. (Though the lack of money will be a hinderance in subsequent rounds).
In general, the giants either need to focus on a quick upgrade of spades (as Matt sugegsts above), or acquiring power for the free spade special actions. Either is viable.
For me, the best part about being the giants is depriving other players of one-spade building spaces (which then evens the playing field a little). But I'm kind of a jerk like that. :devil: