It's true! If you want a graphical example of cheating big time, you should take a look at the production box when you investigate an enemy civ's city next time you play on King or above! OK so it's not cheating as such because it is one of the documented ways that the game increases the difficulty at higher levels - by increasing the AI production rate over yours.
Anyway... back to the topic...
Why do I usually play at King level? Because I'm an old man now - 48 - and it makes for a nice relaxing game where there is still plenty of challenge to achieve new goals. If I want a bit of stress, and possibly less enjoyment, I can beat the Emperor or Deity levels instead, but I prefer more creative fun.
New goals? Yeah. For me I can play and set myself a goal other than conquer the world, or be first to land a spaceship, or make a new high score. I choose others things instead like win with a really early spaceship landing, or win with just one city, or win without fighting, or win solely with a government type I don't often play. The possibilities are endless...
