Not really. It's just optimal for being the closest thing to a "standard" level, with most AI parameters equal to the human's, and so I can at least kind of pretend it's some semblance of a real game. Going lower to Settler already has some folks on CFC doing that and I don't feel the need. Going higher becomes about twisting and exploiting the AI advantages for yourself which I've already done plenty in Civ 3 and 4 and SMAC.
Short answer: I do what I feel like.
Short answer: I do what I feel like.
