Regarding the AI... not sure if this has been suggested, but here is the concept:
An AI that "remembers". Basically, as a game develops, statistics are generated. These statistics are stored in a temporary empire specific file. Based on the end score of the Ai during game play, the temporary file is saved as a permanent file(a higher score than the previous recorded one determines if it is saved, or if the player manualy makes the determination to save it).
Now, what the AI is recording is the statistics for exploration, development, research, etc. But most importantly, it remembers what the "best" design and strategy is given the current situation. It then carries over these learnings to any new games. Each time you play against the AI, it is simply trying to beat it's previous "best" score.
Slowly but surely, the AI will improve itself with repeated playings. These files could then be traded. In this way, some of the best human players could train their AI's, and give us all a go for our money.
This is basically what the AI modders have been doing with AI ship design, right? You give the AI a set of optimum configurations, and hope for the best. Yet this might take it a step further (and perhaps put that "experience" to good use as a barometer of skill for the AI). Thoughts, comments, flames?
I apoligize if this is a repeat of others.
