The current Beta of EFE has come a long way. In my opinion the unfinished game is already a lot of fun. To be a bit more detailed here are the top 5 things I like about EFE today:
1. The current level up systems for heros, trained soldiers, and cities.
This not only creates attachment to the unit but it adds a great deal of replayability.
2. The current magic system.
This is far, far better than the original. It works smoothly, its understandable, and there are a number of great spells.
3. Combat, with a few minor issues, is excellent.
Its better than combat in MOM. (And I like the game MOM a lot).
4. Stability is great.
For a game still in the beta stage it is rock solid.
5. EFE has the "just one more turn" fun factor because the current feature blend is so good.
One example is when the random event system was added it was done really well. Meteors. Monsters growing two levels, etc. can really change the players next actions in the game.
To be fair, here are the things that I would most like to have changed. I doubt if anything here is new in the forums. However, I make no claim other than this is my personal opinion. I also want to note that the game is very, very good as it is - these suggestions are offered in the spirit of how can we make it better.
1. The ability to level up the size of units when the technology is researched.
I don't want to give up using a great unit just because its size is no longer competitive. Of course this upgrade should cost in time and gold.
2. I would like to see the royal marriage and children put back into the game.
This added a lot of uniqueness to game play.
3. I would like to be able to build roads whereever I want - in addition to the current city and outpost links.
This is necessary for effective empire defense and to reduce the lack of fun involved in many slow trips over the same territory.
4. The game needs a few flying units.
In other games (AOWSM, MOM, etc) this has added another whole dimension.
5. More differentiation in loot.
The current loot system is good. A bit more variety would add to the driving force for exploring and fighting monsters.
Stardock, thanks for all the hard work.