[Romulus68]

Here is my take on what you asked. I've been playing SEV for 3 weeks.

1. I find it easier to track movement and like the looks better than SE4. I never know in SE4 if i moved my ships correctly half the time. (played just a little SE4)
2. Bugs are down to a few. I rarely crash at all with V1.17
3. AI: I use Balance Mod 0.99 for all my games. Its not that challenging, but it's better than nothing. Kwok is working hard on a better AI.

4. LAN: Doesn't work and PBW just started using SE5. Exploits are there if you know a little about programming. mainly you can see others turn info with the script files. But, I go on the honor system and HOPE others do as well.

5. PBW; I'm in a SE4 game with 17 active players. There seems to be a decent player base.

6. Interface is a bit rough. SE4 is better. Tech tree is HUGE and diverse. Races are VERY customizable

7. Use the Balance Mod by CaptainKwok. It is a GREAT improvement over SE5 boxed.