I am playing Endless Space, and quite enjoying my run as the Hissho. It is an interesting game, and I appreciate the fact that it doesn't try to be a clone of Galactic Civilization II. I would probably still consider the latter better to me because of the freedom it offers you (Drath Legion FTW), but Endless Space is a worthy contender with its art style and quite different setting, with very interesting and unique factions (imagine a faction of clones of a megalomaniacal narcissist, who wants to fill the galaxy with the most beautiful thing - himself).