Rants are a way to vent frustration (an ineffective way).
The OP, though venting, opens discussion on the autoupdating problem.
I don't personally like losing invested playtime in broken saved games.
Nor do I enjoy waiting for the update before I can play again.
The offered solutions don't work very well, so I offer this advice ...
... To the best of your ability accept the situation for what it is.
... Autoupdating will interrupt your play.
... Savedgames will be abandoned.
... In the future, updates to either Civ5 or Steam may change the playing field.
... Don't be afraid.
... Insight into a problem can relieve frustration.
... ... Forums allow other players to offer you insight.
... and the most important tip I can offer,
... ... have FUN 8)