Multi-player Funcationality - General Question

[Perfecto]

I am researching this game for possible multi-player play. Does the game support 5 players? Is the format IGO/UGO? Simultaneous? Semi-simultaneous? If one player is unavailable periodically, is it possible for another player to take over for the missing player? If you've played multi-player, what do you consider strong and weak attributes?

Thanks for your input!

Old WiF gamer looking for online substitute!

[JimR]

There are only two sides (two players) in CEAW-GS.