What Traits / Tactics are considered cheap/cheats?

[Xorkh]

Thanks for the help guys.

I've decided to stay away from the religious trait altogether, it seems absurdly overpowered especially if the resource % bonus from the shrines stacks with the central and system resource computers. Add in a mid game 100% chance to hit component (as well as other shrines) and you got yourself a iddqd doom cheat (imo).

So far, I'm leaning towards a min-maxed race with a merchants culture, standard build except with 115% maintenance instead of 110% and organic technology. In the first game I played, maintenance costs pretty much crippled me. Only other option would be berserker culture, 110 main, and organic + ancient race, with other stats min-maxed accordingly.

Also I'm not sure what how the aggressive/defensive characteristics work, do they add to defense / chance to hit, or actual damage done / taken? And is the 10% extra bonus for a total of 130% really worth it?

Thanks,
Xorkh