I'm noticing that there seem to be some very big overarching random factors in the game, beyond just the layout of the systems and such.
For example, in the last two games I played there were NO Relsmassier(sp?) stations in the game. Luckily there were plenty of black markets to handle my installation needs.
Also, in the last game I played, the Ventauri didn't exist at all. I think that's the first time I've played through and not seen them.
Is this unusual? I've had various races show up early or late before, but rarely had them not show at all.