I'm currently launching a team game -- two gods vs. two gods.
http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/thr...rt=&PHPSESSID=
I have the idea that a game with only two teams will solve a lot of the "balance" issues. But more importantly, it will be an opportunity to socialize with my friend -- my teammate -- instead of playing lonely solitaire or taciturn all-vs.-all.
Anyway, the idea of game support for alliances would be interesting, but it doesn't seem to be necessary since I can play a team game without and just have an official "Okay I guess you won." victory condition.