[quote=Madhog]
Putting all the 1upping and squabbling aside for a moment, could I ask the GM something? How exactly are Tier 5 civs going to interact with others? Will more advanced civs need to find us and meet us before we can interact with them? I'm thinking of playing Tier 5 but I don't want to be isolated for the vast majority of the roleplay.
[/quote]

Unfortunately it is the case, to a degree. Tier 5 (possibly 4) civilizations will need the grace of a more advanced faction to happen upon them if they want any player-player interaction. That being said, I encourage such Tier 5 factions to ask for others to interact with them. Ultimately it's your decision what you choose to be, and from there your own proactivity.