Yeah, playing teams would be fine with me, too.  I just wanted to know if this was the way that most people play FFA.  Maybe, when playing an FFA, the rules need to be specified?  And, yes, someone else pointed out that I could also play an FFA with set teams but I would prefer playing the way I stated... where temporary alliances and such are good to do.

Basically, the game I played in was not a game at all... it was just everyone beat up on me, then when I pointed out it was apparent that two guys were obviously teamed up, the 3rd player said he would team with me.  But, by this time, I had already lost 4 planets and was just holding on to what I had for a last stand.  Also, the 3rd player was not nearly as strong as either of the others and quit shortly after he lost his fleet.

Now, if they had then turned on each other after I gave up, then that would have been fine.  It would have at least shown they were playing a real FFA.  However, they pointed out they sort of knew each other and, the instant I quit, they quit as well.

I only have time for a few games a week and don't want to waste it playing in such games.  So, I just wanted to know if this was very common.