Well, you could argue that the said player won't alter the outcome of the game much, as he would only have to handle retrofitting, colonization and the incredibly interesting prospect of micromanaging.
(The AI can handle the rest without too much problem)
Hmm, I am not making this look very appealing, am I? At least I am being honest I guess.
Thanks Greybeard, I emailed Geoschmo (and virtually all the owners of the games I am here) to tell them about my leave. If possible, I would rather not grind the game to a standstill because of my own absence, but if I am not the only one away it could be another story.