I, overall, am finding this to be the best GalCiv (1 or 2 with expansions) yet.
I personally like the new economy and feel it is much more realistic in terms of managing an empire. I was the number one empire in an immense universe with 9 opponents (plus minors) and with AI on tough. The two empires closest to me were in the number 2 and 3 spot. I went to war with one and while in the midst of a protracted struggle - the other declared war on me! My economy, population etc. definitely FELT the affects of waging a massive 2 front interstellar war - I loved it!
My populations shrank as invasion fleet after invasion fleet conscripted the poor bastards; my military began consuming over 50% of my resources.... I finally sued for peace with one empire in order to regain some badly needed infrastructure.
I feel this expansion makes me feel as if I am truly running a civilization instead of playing a space opera game. No more sending vast fleets to all enemies without any repercussions unless you are so far ahead you are the lone super-power.
Also, the new tech trees make me feel I am truly battling "alien" races - with different capabilities and powers.
Just needed to rave for a moment 