What draws me back each time I've quit ED, is the Galaxy. The 1:1 Milky Way Galaxy is amazing. I like being able to point to a place in the sky and go there. The only other game that does that is SpaceEngine. Imho, SE is not a game but a space exploration or astronomy tool. It was originally based off a Russian Astronomer's work who accumulated a huge database of astronomical findings (but correct me if I'm wrong).
I've pulled up star systems in both ED and SE and found them to be very similar. SE also nailed procedural generation to where you can go to other galaxies and wander aimlessly. ... like I do most the time - just star gazing - looking for a good picture
The way you move through the galaxy with ED is more believable than other games imho. Most of the new features I have not tried. I don't have a FC either but I still enjoy ED.
Have a nice day