[Ack]

No, combat should definitely not be increased to 120 rounds... that completely defeats the entire point of slowing it down...

I agree, but then the probability that combat will end without a clear winner increases dramatically. So ship to ship combat will become a slug fest that Lasts several turns. I'm not sure how this improves gameplay. It would most definately slow the game down and that is the Last thing SE needs.

I remember playing MOO1 years ago and the game was based on fighting for a few planets. No warp points or sprawling galaxies with dozens of systems and hundres of planets. When you gained or lost a planet, it was a significant event. That is what I find most lacking about SE4. If I lose a planet, so what I have 50 more. The same with ships.

But MOO could never match the epic stragies that are the true soul of SE4. True the planets and races are largely interchangeable, but the most fun occurs in planning and executing massive attacks across dozens of systems. Everything about SE4 from the economy model, to research and intel, through the galaxy layout and movement is a part of this overall strategy.

I've more to say on this topic, but I'm being called away. Until next post...