Game Balance Observations

Been playing 0.8.21 - medium - defaults - basic platform.
I now have six crew and have travelled a few systems. It is much easier if you find more crew earlier on. Almost effortless. A big part of the challenge in all of my play-throughs so-far has been juggling four or less crew. The furthest I have made it so far is about half-way to the end.
Looks like this play through will be easier but let's see. It is still early days. Expect the unexpected.....