Distant world is good game wich have state and civilian like Aurora, it has a *plot* that will allow you to salvage some powerfull vessel ( not that much after a while ) and special government type, i liked it... for a while. It has a good depth but some automation or even how the design consider any new hull you capture as the new default and the game hard to keep up. The design saving method are crappy at best but if you can get over that, its a very good game.
As for gratuitous space battle you will love the freedom in the game ( ship design-wise ) the tactics you use will make you loose or win, good replayability, decent graphic. it a time killer game, the kind you play during a pause or for a small 30-40 minute then get to something else. Dont think you will be absorb for few week with the game. You may however. Both game was fun and i gladly say go for it!