jazzler

I've seen some AIs despite having only their home planet and a Class 4 planet (eg Earth and Mars) but still remains a power to be reckoned with despite other races colonising everything in their path. What does one do if the situation happens to me? Do I put up more starbases everywhere in lieu of the tiles that I don't have because of lack of planet? How do i increase my influence in such a scenario?

I've been reading the forums with much relish and the information I have obtained are priceless. I am currently playing Terran, using both advanced algorithm and Tough mode. Large galaxy and about 5 opponents. The first few tries were embarassingly short to say the least. On my latest game, I have concentrated on diplomacy and trade. What I can't research I buy from other races or trade them. I instigated war between other races. I fawned at the feet of mightier races to prevent them