Never played MP Civ, but I'm curious- why couldn't they just keep it turn-based, where you make your move, then the other player makes theirs? Do you think it would have been a better experience if they had? It would seem a whole lot more fair and sensible, to me.
Theorically yes, but in practice simultaneous is better(by experience).
Edit : I have read the locked thread about tommynt.
I'm not sure if it's really the case KM. I have once been #1 player for 2 years for a pc golf game(Tiger Woods PGA Tour from 2005 to 2007) and i had to fight top 200 players(from over 4000 regulary online) that really wanted my precious spot. Tommynt has acquired something ''special'' with this game through years. This ''special'' ability is the same i got during that time.
In rare occasion, you can see a top player doing so good in his profession/sport/game/hobby that he can beat everyone on earth and always get the most wins from them. Think about all great leaders in sports in history, but also politicians, scientist, etc.