For a balanced game, How many AI players for a given Galaxy size?

from GalCiv3 Forums

I wish Stardock would give some in-game suggestions or default numbers of AIs for a given galaxy size. Something I think all other 4X games do. I am kind of at a loss when I want to try a new galaxy size.

I don't like it too crowded, I dont like it too desertic either.  I understand this might be a matter of taste but I think most players will most likely seek some kind of natural balance for a standard game. As in everyone has a backyard but also a neighbor. ( if that makes any sense )

I guesstimate maybe 1 -2 AI in small map, 3-4 on medium - 5 - 6 on large but really, i have to try and see.

But anyway, you guys have suggestions? What do you like to use?

21,997 views 3 replies
Reply #1 from GalCiv3 Forums Top

Depends on what you want for average number of planets per galaxy size and what galaxy options you want.  Below are a few game options based on the game maximum number of AI is 100 and the max map is insane.

Based on average number of planets at 6. (Assuming galaxy settings are set to abundant habitable planets)

  • Tiny - 2/3 Players
  • Small - 5 Players
  • Medium - 9 Players
  • Large - 14 Players
  • Huge - 21 Players
  • Gigantic - 33 Players
  • Immense - 50 Players
  • Excessive - 66 Players
  • Insane - 100 Players

Based on average number of planets at 6 (Assuming galaxy settings are set to rare habitable planets)  [This varies a little because no minimum number of habitable planets which means some games will average less than 6 others more than.]

  • Tiny - 2 Players (although most likely only an average of 3/4 planets per player)
  • Small - 2 Players
  • Medium - 3/4 Players
  • Large - 5 Players
  • Huge - 8 Players
  • Gigantic - 12 Players
  • Immense - 18 Players
  • Excessive - 25 Players
  • Insane - 35 Players

 

Reply #2 from GalCiv3 Forums Top

I play with uncommon planets and uncommon habitable planets.  With such settings on Huge I use seven AI players and we all end up with something in the 5-10 planets range depending on how aggressively folks expand.

Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion
Reply #3 from GalCiv3 Forums Top

I play on large vs 7 random AI. Since 1.6 if I set for abundant habitable planets there are too many. ie on Incredible I can come out of the colony rush with 23 planets and the AI's have no chance after that. Thus I set for common planets now instead.