Recs.
Updated
Distant Worlds: Universe is a sci-fi themed 4X strategy game that sees the player exploring the universe and expanding their empire.
"Distant Worlds: Universe is an exceedingly complex, infinitely rewarding space strategy game. It’s made me more excited about the genre than any other game of its kind since Galactic Civilizations II" according to PC GamesN review in 2014.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro In-depth problem solving
Unlike games like Civ where solving a problem is a few clicks away, Distant Worlds has many layers of abstraction that will make problem solving a lot more difficult and more like a real living world. There may be many elements needed in order to solve a problem that the player will have to figure out on their own, making for a very immersive way to solve issues.
Pro Good balance between control and hands-off management
The automation is actually decent, helps out enough and gives you the chance to play the pars you enjoy and leave the boring bits to the AI governors and admirals. Inclusion of the 'civilian' AI in one's empire is an interesting desig choice.