Initial layout - how important is it?

[KennyC]

I put 50-75%, because all of my moves are in some way dependent upon my starting position. Is it the only factor in winning a game? Absolutely not, I have won and lost many games from various starting positions by simply knowing how to handle these situations (and a bit of luck). I think on smaller maps, a good starting position can really make an easy win, where as larger maps give opponents a longer opportunity to counter act your advantage.