My feedback:
[*]Independent players. I think the conditions for using independent players really did not work out that well. I was neven contacted to do anything, by anyone. Maybe that was for good reason. I think one tam actually used the privateer for something, but I don't think that worked out. Doesn't seem like anyone made use of the crystalline either. Maybe the conditions were to expensive in addition?
[*]Amount of players. We shouldn't start the game until all four teams are filled. Having 3 teams and 3 independents is not good. Too much open space is an advantage to the borg, who really do not need any additional advantage.
[*]Player commitment. In order for a scenario like this to work, we need higher player commitment. Dropping out should be heavily discouraged in some way. Maybe write a note it in the game description that no drop out will be accepted for a game liek this, except when requested from and approved by the moderators. Not sure on how to enforce though...
[*]Borg as 3rd independent. I think it works well. If I had not had the advantage of 200% tax, I would have been a bit weaker at the start for sure. And the 50% engine shield bonus is a nice way to make the borg not too overpowered. Those Biocide are strong but are easily lost to Torp ship + Fed carrier or Lizard carrier.
Apart from that I liked the game a lot, so thanks for setting it up
