Changing empire icon/color mid-game

Why am I allowed to do this? It could easily be used to confuse opponents - maybe it should be limited to before the game starts? Also I can only do it in some games - 9+ player games? Proteus games? Not really sure what the restrictions are…

it’s Proteus games, and I like that you can change it any time
why would you be worried about something that can confuse your opponents? That would only help you.

It means you can synchronise colours or shapes with your allies.

LONG LIVE THE SUPERIOR HEXAGONS! DOWN WITH THE HEATHENS!!!

Also it makes it easier to draw images… like flags… and faces…