what i am saying is that if i played a multiplayer version, i would be forced into a corner to "play rush or get rushed" (civ4 hotseat anyone?) which does not appeal to me.
So nobody would be forcing me to play anything however the addition of multiplayer does not appeal to everyone - i have not seen anyone else say they are turned off by the notion of having multiplayer so i am the devils advocate.
Now, if the game were re-tuned in every aspect and rebuilt as a multiplayer game then it could probably be fun. Myself, i would prefer a client to server type of program where i log in my stardock, click multiplayer then go to a lobby screen where i can create or join a game. Nice and simple, like settlers of catan online.
I think a lot of changes would have to happen in regards to timing, pacing and development of nations to be a good game for MP. Consider that in single player we want slower progression in some areas to give the game more longevity - while in multiplayer it would not be a good thing to have 8 hour games. the game would need to be redesigned to allow most "normal" games to take about 1 and a half hours and long games 2 to 2 and a half hours.
I have had a lot of problems with multiplayer 4x games and i just have yet to find one that really does it for me. As a single player game, FE does it for me, but as a multiplayer game it would not. That said for all those who disagree with me and want multiplayer, i do hope that something is done to allow it in the future.
