I got up to level 5. Then I started playing for fun. It's pretty addicting, just the game itself. I have a strategy. Since I don't care about winning, I'll go ahead and share it. It's worked about 90% of the time.
The game is basically about math and what you think the other person will think you'll do. Sounds confusing but bare with me.
Stop allowing the number in the middle to persuade you on what number you should pick. Use it to judge what the other person might pick in response to what he/she thinks you might pick.
Basic rule of thumb:
If the middle number is a 4,5 or 6, always match the number.
You - Computer - Player
4---------4---------X
5---------5---------x
6---------6---------x
If the middle numbers is a 1,2 or three, start with 1 and move up to 3
You - Computer - Player
1---------3---------X
2---------1---------x
3---------2---------x
However, this will not always be the case. There will be exceptions on what you should do. In the case of ties, IF the player has used their 6 already, you use your 6. If the player has NOT used their 6, you use your lowest number.
The object is to give the other player the least value in your numbers when he/she wins the 'rocks' or 'round' or whatever you want to call it and for the player to give you the most value when you win the sub-round.
There are variations to this. And you'll learn how to play what at what times. But this is the basic rule of thumb I follow. Also, the earlier they play their 6 , the better chance you have.
Example play:
You - Computer - Player
4---------4---------6 = player 2 w/ 14 pts - 1/3 chance to beat you
1---------3---------4 = p2 w/ 8 pts - Odds against you, use smallest number.
2---------2---------3 = p6 w/ 7 pts - He already used his 6. You could get this with your 6, but save your 6 for the computer's 6.
3---------1---------2 = you w/ 6 pts - Too low. Give him your lowest just in case.
5---------5---------1= you w/ 11pts - Grab it!
6---------6---------5 = you w/ 17 pts - Grab it!
As the game is played, odds are decreased for player two.
Winner: You w/ 33 pts. P2 has 30 pts.
Somebody better enjoy this....