Does having fewer start civ means you will have bigger opponents?

[AlexNightingale]

When i play PD games i always like to play as smaller nations, it adds challenge to the gameplay and it also means i have to fight against odds.

So i'm thinking if i start my first game with 15 civs on a 800 stars, perhaps my opponents will be bigger amd stronger?

 

[Maizel]

This would be the logical consequence.

I'd assume that on average each civ, on a lower populated map would have a longer time, thus more opportunity to expand before encountering another faction.

 

[ahhheygao]

If you want a bit more challenge, you can also have some of the AIs start out with a bit more ships and planets.

 

[Joe Joerson]

It will also likely be longer before you meet them as well. However there is an option to set the number of "advanced" species in the galaxy, this gives the A.I. more colonies tech and ships allowing them to be bigger and more powerful then you or other A.I.s

 

[Admiral Howe]

Your galaxy is just big boned.