Really appreciate the replies everyone. <3
Indeed, research and indies were what I was most concerned with. Both change the pace of the game so vastly..... And while I've played a bit already, not enough so that I can fluidly shift gears from fast paced to slow paced.
I must admit, I am pretty excited to see what diplomacy is like in MP here. I'm just becoming aware of how common trading and such is, which makes complete sense but I am more used to games where people won't trade with a potential enemy for any reason whatsoever.
I guess the lines blur a lot when it's completely understood that "there can be only one".
Anywho, any of you guys can feel free to host a game, and I'd gladly join, struggle, weep, and plot revenge.