I see, maybe to counter using research time you can create a unit (scholar for example) to study the alien civ, kind of like a benign spy (gaining 'study' points per turn). This will allow the other civ the option of allowing the scholar there (on planet) or not (again modifying the relations bonus either way). This would successfully open up the opportunities stated above.
..these are just suggestion on how to make galactic civ a more breathing and alive universe.
Sounds interesting Atragon. Maybe studying their cultures and civilization eventually (once you complete Xeno cultures research) you can start researching their specific technologies ie. Ship design. Once you get their ship design then maybe you can attack other civs making them think it was the civ who you stole their ship design from.... or another route can be to integrate spying into researching their culture (a spying bonus for civs you have a good understanding of, or a soldier
I like Chazzie's idea. It seems there isnt much of a bond between civs. I feel that an enemy you don’t understand may bring more of a hatred of them (you can also have a negative bonus in relations if you don’t understand them). On the contrary this will make you feel closer to other civs that you understand (also gaining a positive bonus in relations for understanding their language). I would like to see more ways you can bond with other civs or use them for other 'advantages
My Vote is for a January release. Take your time and do it right. If the die hard fans want to play then they can pre-order and play the beta.
I think it should be clearer on how to research techs that will allow bigger and better ships. When I play I do not know the technologies to research to get better ships. There should be an interface that automatically picks the technology needed (or gives a technology tree) for better ships. You should be able to view/lookup the interface at any time. It should incude the techs you have already and the techs you need to a specific ship. I end up playing for hours and only have defenders an
