From what I understand it's more like a strenuous suggestion for the Captain to stay on board, it's still up to their discretion. The idea remains the same, though. The only problem I have with the PC bridge crew is that if some member of the crew couldn't make it, that might keep the others from playing or doing a specific mission. I don't like being handcuffed by another's reliability (or lack thereof).

From what I understand it's more like a strenuous suggestion for the Captain to stay on board, it's still up to their discretion. The idea remains the same, though. The only problem I have with the PC bridge crew is that if some member of the crew couldn't make it, that might keep the others from playing or doing a specific mission. I don't like being handcuffed by another's reliability (or lack thereof).

Well there would probably be some implementation that is a player isn't there, an NPC would take their place.

But then, wouldn't they have to change the premise behind the game?  All of us wouldn't be captains anymore ... only one and the rest lower ranking officers.  (could you imagine 5 Captains on a bridge?  Oy)

  Heh I have a hard time picturing up to 5 captains on an away team as it is.  

Indeed - Thats not very canon, I hope this changes later on