If Getting to a base takes time it opens up different options..
You could meet Co alt in the middle..could be met on route with them at alt or you could get to their base with alt advantage..
These things change with the fluidness of the battle and numbers on both sides..
It creates more options and different game play which are all fun..if you have the advantage or not..
Also makes you fight for the advantage in the battle..not just the individual fight..
Base separation does create more options for game play..
I think there should be a mix of base distances ..mix it up a tad..