I just wanted to take a moment to comment on the differences that many people are experiencing.

In numerous threads you will read from one player or another about how certain AI factions are progressing in their game. The player will comment about this as good or bad, weak or strong, smart or stupid.

Next will be a post by another player describing the opposite conditions or a story about a different faction and how it is performing.

Here is my point. THIS IS WONDERFUL. The idea that the AI does play DIFFERENTLY from game to game is important and thrilling. It means that AD is heading in the right direction.

It does not mean that it's perfect or without room for improvement. But it does mean that every game will be somewhat different, and I think that is something we all want.