The reviews that state this game is not like other 4x titles are true - it is not! This IMHO, unlike some of the reviewers, is a good thing. Even though I occasionally like to play a "Spreadsheets in Spaaaaace" game, I wished that this catagory would come up with a decent tactical component. Sword of the Stars (SoS) does it far better than anyone else. Yes it is lite on the management of planets - but again - this is good IMO.

This game brings 4x to Homeworld with the added bonus of not having 4 races that play different. The SciFi is well done and does not indulge in the silly campy side of SciFi that one can find in some other 4x titles. It is clear the developers know their SciFi and are true fanboys. Shipbuilding and design are well done and the tech can very from game to game.

What could be better:
I do wish the designers included true 3D tactical movement. I get sick of hearing - well most people don't think in 3D anyway - but I do and loved that aspect of Homeworld. Reminds of how Kirk defeated a 2D thinking Khan (at least give us the choice Kerabus).
Graphics - could be better, but they are good for a new shop/low budget
AI - It's ok, but can't every game use a better AI?

Buy the game? If you like all the micromanging aspects of a 4x game - no. If you like Total War series and SciFi then this is a good game. Homeworld fans will probably enjoy this title as well. I very much enjoy the game and hope that this will be the first in a series.

P.S. The developers are more involved with their fans than I have ever seen with any other game.