Nice wrapup, Geo. I like the map idea (and, in fact, considered posting mine at the conclusion but figured not many people give a s--t about "bottom of the hill" results).
I can see where the "snakes eating each other" applies, too. Somewhat like a Yin-Yang.
I don't think I've ever played 175 turns before. (probably 'cause I got beat before then...
)