This game introduces a new concept to 4X games. Of course, every game adds innovation. Civ III added culture, Civ VI added buildings on the map, etc. But no game ever managed to incmude an interesting mechanism that would prevent snowballing. This game requires you to plan, to take your time to build your empire before you expand, otherwise your empire is going to collapse to strife and civil wars. The new concept of culture/decadence is so innovative that any grand strategy or 4X player should try this game, unlearn bad habits from previous games, and enjoy this jewel. Some elements are gamey, but the end result looks more realistic/historical than most other games that try to be more simulations. For instance, having randomness in the choice of buildings you can order is artificial, but it avoids repetitive optimised queues that never change and it makes for a new experience. I would certainly not recommend exporting battles into FOG:2. That may work, but would slow down your campaign so much that it doesn't look worth doing. So do not think you need FOG:2 to enjoy FOG:E thoroughly. The game stands very well by itself.
