Been playing for a few days. Mostly on Cloth Map as my 32 bit system can't handle this game. But i been playin anyway :~) Is quite fun. i'm enjoying all the new aspects. E::FE adds new stuff to 4X TBS. And does the basics well. Outposts and city specialization are nice. Is cool to see Essence return in a relevant way. There's more. Lots more. The game is near great. Some tweaks and changes ..and i think this game is well in the running for game of the year. Then some expansions and a new game or few within the Elemental-verse, along with continued update of E::FE with content packs and assorted spit shines, and features like MP and Mod/Map Sharing, will put FE in the running for Game of the Decade. 

From bumpy ride down rocky road, to clear road cruising up gentle grade towards top of pass just in view. Good Game SD !!