I dont understand what youve said.
Why would resources need to be `fronted` and what exactly does that mean?
Why would a wealthier empire be more likely to find them? You mean because they can build more scouts? Thats perfectly fine, and thats the same as it is now. I never suggested make it easier to get planets or anything, simply allow someone to explore for a specific planet.
For instance, if Im exploring, and odds are split like this:
33% chance of barren
33% chance of forest
33% chance of gas
(keep it at 3 because its easier math this way and I dont know the actual odds of finding a planet haha)
Also assume Im exploring 1 turn per planet, or 1 planet every turn.
Instead, give me the option to explore only for barrens, and make it take 3 turns instead of 1. Statistically 1 barren every 3 turns is what Id be getting anyways.
So maybe based on odds it takes 5 turns to find a barren, and 150 turns to find a large. Those numbers may be off, but the general idea is as it stands.
I see no reason why this would favor wealthy players or why it would require resources up front.
Theres also no guarantee that if youre searching for barrens say, that theyll be above any specific land. You are still just as likely to find a 70 land barren.