Nbonatural, if you think it's not luck, wait until you get to level 20+ and there are 5 or 6 segments to fit your pieces around. This game is possible as I've done the badge myself, but it takes a long time (took me about 30-40 playing hours to get it).
Dont bother with synergy. For top bonuses get 4 of each symbol (10 tiles and a joker). Don't go for 4 colours as its bugged and should give you a joker but it does'nt. Fer lesser bonuses, get at least 9 of the same symbol or 10 of the same colour. Use the early levels to get the bonuses, cos you will need them to get the hard badge. . .
To Givenfly: Don't bother with synergy bonuses as theyre not worth it. Even with 5 or 6 of them, most I ever got was 11 extra tiles. What you should concentrate on are sets. If you get 4 of each symbol, you get tiles and a joker and is fairly easy to do at lower levels.
This is a great game, but it is luck-dependent. I've (frustratingly) got to lvl 29 twice only to lose, and it seems that it doesn't always give you the runes you need to complete the puzzle. Without the bonuses it seems impossible past a certain point. . .
 "Bloody Fun Day"){kind=icon}
 "Ring Pass Not"){kind=icon}
 "Balloon Invasion"){kind=icon}