I want a relatively even distribution of starting empires - not 2/3 or 3/4 empty.
...

In the same vain: we badly need for the game setup code to be willing to force the desired start conditions. If I say every empire should get 2-4 worlds - then every empire should - in fact - get approx 3 ...

+1

+1
An updated roadmap would definitely be nice.

Just a warning about the ModLoader: The file "DW2Net6Win.exe" will install the following Trojan: Win32/Mamson.A!ac, so don't use it.

Don't use the modloader, the file "DW2Net6Win.exe" will install the following Trojan: Win32/Mamson.A!ac !

Thanks for your answers.
I was able to solve the problem by giving the private sector some additional money as described by zgrssd.

Even better:
The private economy doesn't build anything at all anymore... no freighters, no passenger ships, no mining ships. That ruins every game if this happens for whatever reason(s).
What I found out is that by pausing every two seconds this sudden behavior can be delayed, but not canceled ...

Hello,

playing the new beta version v1.0.5.0 I stumbled upon a problem with building mining stations. After 2 or 3 hours of playtime I am suddenly not able to automatically build mining stations anymore because of 'Cannot afford to build".
I have enough money, have all the relevant ressources and ...