Best space simulation game I've ever played!
The first thing I tried was the campaign. I was expecting a brute, no-tutorial campaign. In reality, the first mission was very helpful, and one of the best aspects of the game. The campaign itself is pretty interesting, and will keep you playing. However, the quick match ability makes the game much better. The ability to play a battle that could take 3 minutes, or half an hour (happened to me once), is extraordiary. But the best part of the game is the mods that are so abundant (especially "The Beginning" mod). They add a new layer to the game, which gives it incredible repayability.
The only problem with the game is the cost. The game is out of print, and a new one on Ebay costs about $80. The used ones go for about $30. $80 for a video game (a PC one) is a lot of money to pay. My copy was one of the last in the store. Good luck finding one.