You can set up how many and which opponents you want, or let them be random. You can specify galaxy size, planet density, starting tech levels and experience, winning conditions, whether you want diplomacy, and how many ground turns there are per space turn. In scenarios, the AI skill can also be set, as can it's production advantages. The galactic map is visually attractive, with planets spinning and black holes twirling. Combat units are well-drawn, though often it's hard to tell apart similar space units of the same race.
Sound effects are above par, with different sounds for different ships and weapons.
The galaxy map here shows a freshly plotted merchant ship route. Empire Building Star General allows you to wage war both in space and on planet surfaces. Controlling planets is important, as the more planets you hold, the more tech centers you can build, and the better the weaponry you can put into battle. More planets also means more resource-producing sites, so you can build more combat units. You'll recognise the key units of armour, artillery and aircraft.