This is a great game. The recurring knock among these reviews is playtime, which is definitely a factor, but only until everyone knows the rules, which may take a couple playthroughs. The box suggests 30 mins/player, and my group (four players) is down to two hours, so the suggested timing seems right. Amazing variability with the tech tree, faction asymmetry, and 4X elements. Turns are fun with high interaction and, while there is an element of luck with die rolling for combat, for example, skill is still the dominating element (and understanding probabilities is a skill, which is why I rarely turn my nose up at dice). The rulebook appears imposing but the rules themselves are straightforward and captured well on player aids. Playthrough examples are thorough and very helpful. This game is tight, polished, fun, and highly recommended.