One of the best balanced, most fun 4X games I ever played. Probably the last great game from this studio, as Paradox subsequently took it over and ruined it (much like SEGA and Creative Assembly years before).

The scope of the game is limited, but the "feel" is spot-on. Can get lost in this game for hours. Lots of replay value, and therapeutic when you're stressed (soundtrack helps- very soothing at times).