Some ideas
from 
Stardock Forums
Stardock Forums
Wouldn't it be better that we don't know where all the planets are after some radius of some lightyears ?
Now I can see that there is a planet on the other side of the galaxy, the AI's see that 2.
This radius circle could get bigger over time when new tech has been developed so we can see further.
Unless you scout with a ship then you will see planets nonetheless.
This way Alien contact can be delayed and you can research a nice tech.
Also when you are new to spacetravel (other races are 2 since they start researching from scrap like you)
Ccolonies and expansions would start off slowly since you can only see on the map what's in your radius. (Every race starts with only 1 survey ship so it should make exploring more challenging)
Just some thoughts
Now I can see that there is a planet on the other side of the galaxy, the AI's see that 2.
This radius circle could get bigger over time when new tech has been developed so we can see further.
Unless you scout with a ship then you will see planets nonetheless.
This way Alien contact can be delayed and you can research a nice tech.
Also when you are new to spacetravel (other races are 2 since they start researching from scrap like you)
Ccolonies and expansions would start off slowly since you can only see on the map what's in your radius. (Every race starts with only 1 survey ship so it should make exploring more challenging)
Just some thoughts