Just to clarify re: the multiplayer, it doesn't occur in realtime, but what happens is your generated content (creatures, building types, planets etc.) gets automatically distributed to other clients over the internet. So when I've built up my planet and go spacefaring, I could (eg.) discover the planet and civilisation that Michael created. But if I blow the planet up it doesn't affect Michael's game.
P.S. to Michael; Yes, I'm clearly failing at this whole 'avoiding the forums' thing.
