Galciv tries to be both a RPG and RTS but fails at both. Minor races, (which can only be conquered) major events (where what you decide effects your "alignment") offer strong RPG elements but never get any follow up. RTS side is okay though the GUI is over complex and you never have enough resources to build items on your colonies. Like many RTSs the NC races have tech advantages you will need to catch up. These advantages can lead to very unbalanced situations (like NPCs being able to support larger fleets than you can) Also be aware that once you send a fleet to hit a target the AI might upgrade the target just before you get there making the battle a sure loss for you
