i've started a game for 20 turns need help

[Marty Ward]

Since you have Point Defense 2, Shields 3 and Physics 2 you are well on your way to building ships that can Last the entire game and not be outclassed. If I were you I would research Phased Polaron Beams to level 5, PD to level 5 and shields to level 5. Destroyers equiped with these items can hold off Cruisers and BC in tactical combat. With a destroyer or two full of PD 5 you can make yourself immune to almost any missile or fighter attack.
After you get to those levels take your pick. Stellar Harnassing is great. Bigger ships, engines, repair, sensors and combat support will all be needed and cost a fair amount of research. If you are the paranoid type research industry to get mines. If you are real paranoid, research warheads too.
The biggest thing to remember is COLONIZE everything. And build lots of research facilities. You really don't need a big fleet unless you wish to go conquering or the enemy finds you.

[This message has been edited by Marty Ward (edited 20 April 2001).]