SupremacyKing2
Deity
Game 1 (Apollo): I landed near a lot of alien wild areas so expansion was slower. I expand in the only direction that seemed open and alien free but settled my 3rd city very close to Citadella. Brasilia declared permanent war on me with a massive military. The game was a challenge and I quit because victory seemed very unlikely.
Game 2 (also Apollo): I landed in an area with no alien nests nearby and no AI. I was able to expand freely about 6 cities until I got close to alien nests and other AI. I got 6 cities all pumping out international trade routes for a huge science boost. The game is much easier and victory is very likely.
Two examples of how the starting location really affects how "easy" a game feels, much more than difficulty level.
Game 2 (also Apollo): I landed in an area with no alien nests nearby and no AI. I was able to expand freely about 6 cities until I got close to alien nests and other AI. I got 6 cities all pumping out international trade routes for a huge science boost. The game is much easier and victory is very likely.
Two examples of how the starting location really affects how "easy" a game feels, much more than difficulty level.