I really like this game. It is a lot of fun. Stellaris is much more than the typical Space 4X game.
I play on super slow most of the time, which is why I have a lot of hours but have yet to finish a game. My first game went wrong, I was in a nebula so my fleets moved slower, but worse I had no minerals. After 20 years of gameplay I had mineral income of 12 per month. I could have stuck with it as there was a very weak enemy Empire I coud take out, but I restarted.
My second game is great! I have room to expand and even won two wars so far.
Stellaris has neat technology system, where you get to choose from 3 different techs each time. SOmetimes techs are different to choose from, so you have to choose the best for you when you can.
Diplomacy is ... WOW! You can trade, set rivals, have embassies. There are also alliances and federations.
Also, the population management system is full-blown. I have a binch of conquered worlds where the pops have Fanatic Xenophobic ethos = thta means they hate aliens, meaning me. Err, these pops are hard to manage! FUN !!! I guess over time things will smooth out.
Love the ships and the ship design system. Ships have slots to place Weapons, Defenses+Reactors and also Support. I like designing the ships from time to time, and refits are a snap to handle.
Oh, part of playing is sending out Science ships and Construction ships. This means a little bit of micro-management. I like it, others don't.
The early game is slowwwwww .... some players would get bored, but I love it.
Graphics are nice and the soundtrack is wonderful.
I really enjoy this game. It is now one of my favorites, I am certain Paradox will improve the game even more. Currently there are no game breaking bugs, but there are a few quirks here and there.
Overall, Stellaris is a great game!