"Boom, wall-of-text is well on it's way to fruition, I must continue." Hilarious, I actually had to say that to myself, outloud, because it was so funny.
Thanks for the praise, bub.
As for Civilization, I actually find it tons easier to way any other way beside war. Maybe I'm in the minority, but building up a huge force of units, only to be slaughtered at the steps of another country seems like it wastes too many turns for me. It's not as viable as just building your own defenses and teching or culturing to victory. Then the only thing that you have to watch out for is other teams allying against your own and attacking at the same time, which frequently happens on the higher difficulties. If only getting troops through diplomacy were easier... :)
Anyway, I enjoyed reading your own strategies, Michael117. Thanks again for the love.