Well, I must say that as I have followed the forums now for about a week and played for about 10 hours, I am hooked on this game. Thank you devs for thinking outside of the box. The gameplay focus is revolutionary IMO, up there with Company of Heores (of which i have played since it's release years ago). As such, there seems to be a divide in the community of us noobies. I keep seeing people comment on how slow they feel the game is, or the AI rushing them with frigates or the Pirates, lord the pirates! First, if the pace of the game is too slow, try adjusting that setting before you start your match. Secondly, this game is NOT a RTS per-say, it's a tactical strategy RTS, so you shouldnt be pumping out units and throwing into the unknown. Build up your force, put that scout on autoexplore and see what's out there (Where are those oh-so-important choke points?) and then expand. The Romans didn't build their empire overnight, nor should you expect to Command&Conquer the solar system. Pirates are so easy, as long as you are upgrading your planets and commanding that credit income, I have had no problem beating the AI to the punch on the bids. Don't get frustarted, take some time to learn the pulse of this amazing game. Take if from someone who has played RTS Warcraft 1, this experience is so refreshing. My only stipulation to the devs; There needs to be a bit better of static world defense, perhaps a battlestation or a late game powerfull upgrade for your homeworld defense, like a giant laser or Tactical Fleet Repulsion Nuke. Blast them while they're leaping? Anyway, long post. Thanks again!