Any news about BtS coming out for the Mac?

None whatsoever. The subject comes up regularly and the answer remains the same. I suggest you beat up Aspyr directly, as they don't come here as far as I know.

You might also want to beat up Firaxis ... it's not clear who's at fault here.

BTW...I do not want to sound like a complainer, but you do get the sense that all the games now being played involve BtS? I would like to shadow games posted through the strategy forum, but find it increasingly difficult because of the current emphasis on BtS. In that same vein, what do people think about a Mac-specific learning club. I desperately want to move up to Monarch....
Cheers,

Wolf

A Succession Game is an excellent place to learn. Are you aware of the SGOTM 7 team competition that just started? It includes a small team of Mac players. Their team discussion thread is here (http://forums.civfanatics.com/showthread.php?t=271899).

Yes, please join in the current SGOTM.

There's also a monthly Vanilla game of the month open to all players, mac and windows. I and a couple other mac players play in it pretty regularly, and there's always interesting discussion in the spoiler threads. The next one starts in a few hours.

Hi AlanH and dr_s,

Thank you so much for the offer to play along. I really appreciate it :) But do you really want me? While I have beaten Monarch once or twice, this game is on the deity level. In any case, I will consider it. What would I have to do if I want to join?
Cheers,
Wolf

All you have to do is participate in the discussion and (if you like) play. You also have to stay out of the other team's threads. I don't know if Alan has to do anything to give you access to the saves or not.

And don't worry, I don't think any of us are particularly great players.

You are free to download and look at the team saves.

Please let me know if you want me to add you to the team player list. This is required if you want to post in the team thread and/or play turns for the team. If I add you to the team then you will not be allowed to visit the other team threads.