[God Emperor]

Kagetora,
Doesnt sound like you are playing the same game as me.
My current game (large galaxy, high difficulty, low AI bonus, all 16 mod pack races) is very challenging (see my thread "Tale of a Game from a Play Test Perspective" - I may be in 2nd place by turn 77, but, I've had to work like hell to get there).

Although the AI cant skirmish very well, when a mod pack race comes gunning for you, you are in for a challenging time.

If on the other hand you have played the mod pack races at low bonus or better and consistently beat them, then I'm not sure there are too many humans who will be a challenge for you.

I wish you the best of luck in finding a better space strategy game, as I think you will be waiting a long while.

GE

PS: There have been lots of strategy games since the Last great (MOO2), but, only SE4 has managed to take its title. With every patch, SE4 makes it harder for the next game to beat it, and Aaron seems comitted (from his replies to my suggestions, and those of others) to be taking on board gamers feedback in further improving the game - I cant see how this could be conceived as poor support.

PPS: By the way, my friends and I am hanging out for TCP/IP too, but, are still enjoying the game (particularly given all of the mods that fans are doing, and are able to do).