Re: How soon do you research Intelligence?
 

I research and build up intel as soon as possible, mostly around turn 20-50 and I use only planets with low value for that. My experience was, that if you are getting hit by intel completely unprepared you are in big trouble. Don't forget the AI bonus, which can increase its intel points by factor 2-5!

Re: How soon do you research Intelligence?
 

My pattern for every game is, Research, then resource extration,then Intell then storage.
For Research & extraction, i use large planets and higher.For intell i use med & higher( really depends on planets resource value).Storage i use below medium. I start Intell around 60-80th turn.Or untill the ai shows up. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif