Neat ideas.
I think for a competetive "fair" game, it makes a lot of sense to just show both players the map to start with. Otherwise, even without Ancient being used, there is a lot dependent on discovery, which is a shot in the dark.
The economics of the unmodded game favor the fastest, most massive expansion so much that rapid planet grabbing is the most important factor between skilled competetive players.
You guys are gonna make all these maps right?
The "Fair" map used in the Universe Cup tourney was, I thought, about as fair as could be. It is completely symmetrical (lozenge- or football- shaped), and players were allowed to study the map before play. It did get a bit dull playing on the same map after a while, though. Maybe someone could make some more maps that are completely symmetrical.
On the other hand, I tend to like randomized maps even if they aren't as fair.
Has anyone made any mods that have expansion economies half-way between Proportions and unmodded?
PvK