I completely agree with you; venturing out from your starting base on week 3 is like a death sentence, but inexperienced newcomers are playing (and I don't mean to offend them, I was one of them not long ago), and not many will be able to use this amazing advantage...
I'm addressing the participants: if your opponent won't allow a restart after a blockade, don't give up, play to the end... And maybe you'll be the first to find some killer strategies... Read the season reports; the game doesn't end just because someone breaks through your defenses and captures your starting Castle. You can return a week later and give them a beating for such audacity. Gather a large army, collect as many artifacts as possible, gain control of the Dungeon, Tower, or Wings, and torment your opponent...
Good luck!