I am not through with trying each new feature yet, but so far, my first impressions:
The ship UI:
A fresh look. Maybe in the comms menu the tabs for chat and wing stuff could have stayed next to each other, but else I really like it.
Integrated DiscoScanner + new scanning mechanic:
A module slot is freed up! Plus exploring finally has some kind of gameplay. And with a DSS minigame we can find persistand geological and some other pois. Very Nice!
Squadrons:
Oh yes, I like it! I can join a player group and have a tag that shows it. There is a squadron chat and some more info about supported factions and stuff. Also there are some high score ladders to be contesting with other squadrons.
Chat tabs, Friend list:
all fine. better UI, all good here!
Codex:
I don't care very much about the "sticker album". But to have a detailed ingame journal is... Nice.
Passanger Cabins slot restriction is gone:
I can play with my Orca more. Nice!
New Combat Zones:
Finally some kind of operation mini goals. Might need some minor bug-fixing around the CZ mechanics, but it's an imporvement. And the NPC are a bit more of a challange. Maybe they ram a bit too mucht. But else I like it! AND: I can see who is fighting whom from SC! Finally!!
SC:
space is full with megaships, installations and stuff. I am not sure what I can do with these things yet, but nice.
Night and Nightvision:
finally. A nice touch.
The graphics:
Maybe a bit too much glare and HDR or whatever it is that messes with lighnting, also messed up milky-way coloration. But not a real biggie for me. But honestly maybe I liked old graphis a bit better.
Minor Factions, BGS:
I have never played the minor factions BGS stuff much, so I have no idea of the details. But sure the graphical presentation is a major improvement.
Board Flipping gone:
really? I didn't notice anything. But hell, I never cared.
I am still looking forward to test:
- Scenarios (where are they?)
- Mining
- Thargoid Incursion
- New Ships. Well I haven't even tested the old new ships yet...