[Talenn]

Tomgs:

Yes, definately AI agressiveness could use a boost IMO too. Too often I am allowed to build up unmolested and then simply translate my huge econ and tech advantage into an unstoppable fleet.

And, like you mentioned, even when at war, I always dictate the pace. I rarely have to go back and defend my backfield from AI attacks.


Taqwus:

That would probably require some SERIOUS AI tweaking. The little bits I've messed with the AI have shown that it has a pretty strict order for how to build colonies and if it doesnt have enough planets to use, some important things might never get built. I'm sure you could go through and develop a custom AI for your settings (one that researches colony techs and whatnot earlier) but it would be useless in a 'regular' game. I think the AI is optimized for a few game conditions and cant be reasonably asked to perform well in the less standard ones.

It would be an interesting exercise to develop an AI for your settings, though. But even at that, dont expect it to keep up with an experienced player unless you give it a pretty healthy 'Computer Player Bonus' on a map like that.

Talenn