It seems like all the human players just want to attack each other instead of build up their empires peacefully. That's fun for a while but it does have its downsides namely short games and no one ever seems to make it to independence.

I played 2 MP games untill independence, but it was really boring, you have to make slow timer because later on you´ll need the time. You need about 4-8 hours. Without a break. That sucks.

Multiplayer is just about Speed. You have to be quicker then others, then you can rush or defend as you like;)
Games between strong players can still last 2 hours, fighting all the time. And I think that is fun!:D

Oerdin..i agree but for example i like long games more than quick fights..