bsotoro, I played back in those days too, and yes it was a blast. But as in real life, things in the game must change also over time. I remember the old days of federation wars and raiding for "booty" I think is what they called it. lol It was a lot of fun.
My only complaint is the war levels. It has taken any player's ability to raid inactive empires with any decent population right out of the game. If I did have one Sim wish it would be to get rid of some of these restrictions. I am not opposed to paying for war protection if needed. I have throughout the years.
And Suferdude, yes there are more costs involved, but you have to remember, this is a business for the game owners, and it is their desire to make money off their product. Reasonably so, I hope. :P
If you look at costs, you pay way more for dinner and a movie in one night than you would in this game for a month. So you have to weigh the costs/entertainment value in that perspective. I dun like to spend more money than I have to as well. I have voiced this concern to the GMs, and they assure me their costs to play is comparable across the board in online games.
Also, they do offer a free option to play, for those who don't want to invest money, but then.........where is the fun in that scaled down version of the game?!!!!
Bsotorso, I ask that you give the game a chance. Get involved in the community. There is so much more than just the game here, you have a wonderful community of players from all over the world to get to know and play the game with! So I expect thee to get thy booty to my neck of the woods on LU and join my federation, Bad Meets Evil. We are a fun and entertaining group. :P
. Well if you need help with something, let me know