[QuarianRex]

I found GalCiv to be completely diferent from SE4. It focused on being an actual galactic leader. As such you could direct the reseaech of your scientists but not influence what they come up with (no ship design, your engineers handle that). Where this game shines is in the interaction with the other empires. Having spent so much time playing SE4 it came as a shock to see the alien races acting in so inteligent a manner. They also have this galactic senate type thing that basicly allows you to change the rules of the game (Ex. you can pass a law that outlaws all of the Deathstar-like star destroying uberbases. You would not be able to build/use them without going rogue and leaving the galactic alliance, and hence loosing all trade income as well, ouch). The ability to gain meaningful victory other than through combat is a pretty sweet feature as well (not to mention the AI's ability to recognize such tactics and counter you).

Over all it is a great game but do not expect it to be another SE4. In fact, in some ways it could be considered to be the polar opposite SE4. Appreciate it for what it is, not a replacement for SEV.

[ February 08, 2004, 21:09: Message edited by: QuarianRex ]