So on bigger maps at high difficulties (top 2-3) is malevolent the only true viable starting path? To get colony ships out quick enough seems like you need the extra production and shipyard +100% bonus from malevolent. Without it I always seem to feel left behind. Thoughts on this?
BTW, this isn't to say that you can't go into other paths later, but if you want a consistently good start if feels like it's a must.