Tightens up what was already an excellent game. All the various components, from the ships the the hexs that make up the board all look and feel much nicer. Game plays faster as well, although its still by no means a fast game. I don't like a lot of the new art as much, particularly with regards to the playable races, but really the only gripe I have, and doesn't take away much if anything from the overall excellence of the game.