[Roanon]

AI really sucks. And initial exploration / buildup is very important, as the success there lays the base for the size of your empire later. Every producing shipyard is the key for an average of 2 more colonies per turn, which in turn can build up and form the base for another 2 colonies per turn, thus multiplying the early success. One producing shipyard less in turn 10 may mean about 20 colonies less in turn 30, and 50 colonies less in turn 40.

I think it's less disadvantegous to let the AI take over some turns in the 40-60 range than right at the start, even if the AI seems to do more later by handling more ships and planets. But the effect is not so severe at that time because its less critical, due to already formed borders, pre-planned production queues, and limits of expansion.

Cybersol, if you want to play that game, look for a standby who can do the first turns. I would do if you want. Just make sure you take over after your vaccation. I don't want to play the whole game since I think tech trading and intel allowed with no limitations to alliances will put too much emphasis on diplomacy, which I do neither like nor have time for. If you can form a reliable from-the-first-hour-alliance it will win the game, no matter how good you are doing strategically as a lone wolf. Especially with alliance wins enabled.