[Xietor]

I think it depends on size map and number of other players, and difficulty level. Typically i play cradle of dominions or a map about that size with at least 16 computer opponents and at times 2 human opponents as well.

If you get a area on map that has choke points, rush quickly to secure choke points. But if you expand too far and you are stuck in the middle of a map, you may find yourself facing 6-8 enemies in the game by turn 10 or so, and if more than 2 declare war on you, you may be in trouble.

I typically play the ai on difficult, which can be challenging if you get a crappy spot, and they can be annoying if they attack you while a human foe has free time to harass you.