That's right, Warguppy. #1 MP faction means it is the strongest faction in multiplayer, therefore more people are inclined to play as the said faction--especially in quick battles.
As of Patch 7, the meta had shifted again and pikes are not as effective anymore and elite infantry is out of fashion.
Now it is all about shock and awe using elephants and chariots. Something in patch 7 made them extremely powerful bulldozers.
The Seleucids and the Romans (legionaries with formation attack off is incredibly powerful) are now top dogs.
[This message has been edited by el_bandito (edited 11-20-2013 @ 00:56 AM).]