It is a really solid game which combines resource management, military strategy, macrosociology, macroeconomics and [cough, cough] politics.

All topped with science-fiction and fantasy sauce, along with shredded cheese of philosophical and ethical dilemmas. The writing of this game is superb. The mechanics of this game make AI governors behave in a believable and... human way. I literally got insulted by an AI enemy governor after I conquered one of his star systems in retaliation for him declaring war to me. It felt very human, very natural. Steaming hot. Delicious. Hearty. Wholesome. Very spicy, though, with salty and bitter notes - but I wouldn't have it any other way!

The interface isn't overly complicated and can be easily learned in a couple minutes, allowing you to get into actual management really swiftly. Micromanagement isn't necessary - you can delegate your local government officials to do just that, as it happens in real life (duh!) - but you can totally engage in that if you want to maximize the efficiency, or cope with your urge to control everything.

The devs still continue to update this game, years after release. It has many DLCs, but each one is also supplemented with a free update which gives the base game an extra flavour which is a sort of an aparatiff to the DLC.

Some DLCs are obviously better than others. It isn't necessary to buy all of them to enjoy this game. My personal recommendation for your first three DLCs is Utopia, Synthetic Dawn and Ancient Relics, but you can look at them yourself.

Recently, a co-op mode started being implemented. It is already playable, albeit still in beta.

Is this game perfect? No. Is it the best RTS out there? I don't know. I love it, though, and I highly appreciate the effort Paradox puts into nourishing it, as well as their players. They could easily get away with not doing it - and yet, they still do. They simply love this game as much as I do. They are dedicated to educating their players about government management. They must be really fun people to be around.

You are guaranteed to find new content here when you return to this game after a months-long hiatus, without having to pay a dime. Which, truth be told, the devs totally deserve.

It is a game which can be easily played by multiple generations and which has the potential to outlive me.

Toss a coin to your 'loper,
Oh valley of plenty