Why does this cheapo $20 game have so much going on?

1. Nice graphics. Not outrageous, but nice. Explosions and ships all look very good. There are satisfying explosions and weapon effects for sure.
2. Interesting and extensive research and customization options. You can build your ship all kinds of ways from all kinds of parts, and more parts get unlocked as you progress.
3. Difficulty that feels good. Everytime I think my ship is OP and the game is too easy, I manage to find a new place that really ups the enemy power level and makes me have to go back and rethink/improve/upgrade my designs.
4. Exploration and combat. A good mix of the two, not too much of either. And most importantly if you want to go farm combat, you can visit certain places and enemy populations respawn. Blowing stuff up for fun and profit.
5. Enough mysteries and places to discover to keep you wanting to play a little more to find out just a little more. So many breadcrumbs.

Only negative is some travel times are excessive. Many systems are off the beaten path and don't have shortcut travel points. Nothing that can't be solved with a quick cheat engine speed cheat I suppose, but not everyone has access to 3rd party programs.

I can't believe how good this game is for it's price tag.
Comparing it to that recent Star Control puts Star Control to absolute shame. Everything here is better. Including not having to listen to comically stupid aliens be outrageously silly.

Why does this cheapo $20 game have so much going on? 1. Nice graphics. Not outrageous, but nice. Explosions and ships all look very good. There are satisfying explosions and weapon effects for sure. 2. Interesting and extensive research and customization options. You can build your ship all kinds of ways from all kinds of parts, and more parts get unlocked as you progress. 3. Difficulty that feels good. Everytime I think my ship is OP and the game is too easy, I manage to find a new place that really ups the enemy power level and makes me have to go back and rethink/improve/upgrade my designs. 4. Exploration and combat. A good mix of the two, not too much of either. And most importantly if you want to go farm combat, you can visit certain places and enemy populations respawn. Blowing stuff up for fun and profit. 5. Enough mysteries and places to discover to keep you wanting to play a little more to find out just a little more. So many breadcrumbs. Only negative is some travel times are excessive. Many systems are off the beaten path and don't have shortcut travel points. Nothing that can't be solved with a quick cheat engine speed cheat I suppose, but not everyone has access to 3rd party programs. I can't believe how good this game is for it's price tag. Comparing it to that recent Star Control puts Star Control to absolute shame. Everything here is better. Including not having to listen to comically stupid aliens be outrageously silly.