Is it possible...

…to create simulation battles?

Sorry, that’s a little misleading. I mean a battle that you’d sit and watch. So, say, it automatically selects two races and has them fight each other - without player interaction? Personally I just think it would be really fun to see Heretics fight Order in a simulated battle. i think it would also look aesthetically better than just filming the battle…

Just a thought.

No, there is no “screen saver” mode.

The only way you can have a battle is for you (the player) to place one of the fleets.
Once you hit start battle, you could sit back and watch (not use the direct control feature)

Fair enough.