#1 I like this. Sounds like we are all going to die... I'd prefer 5 planets and a 1:3 monster ratio.
#2 darn you Puke... I was going to suggest this myself. My idea was more like medium quadrant and myself playing the monsters versus 10 opponents (yes, certain fair play rules in effect. Like no sun cloaking and only one planet-eater per player...).
either way I am game (as long as I get to play the nasties in option #2
)