3D graphics are nothing special, but then again, they don't have to be. It kept hte spirit of it's sucessor - you really have a LOT of options here.
Becouse of worm holes (jump points), sattelites, defensive platforms, bases, drones, and all kinds of ships it really is highly tactical.
Interesting to note is that hte developers have allready started giving modding tips and tools. Apparently, the game is very moddalbe and adding your own empire (new ships includng) is easy.
http://www.malfador.com/se5empstyle.htmlSomething tells me I'm gonna be seeing Terrans, Shivans and Vasudans a few days after the game gets released :d Maby even sooner!