I've only played this game in multiplayer with people I know. For this, it's a pretty good game. It was fully engaging for the length of a match and allowed for a decent amount of strategic variety. The micromanagement was also pretty satisfying, with very simple unit abilities and positioning commands.
The learning curve is modest, but not insurmountable, given extensive previous knowledge from other real-time strategy games. A reasonable degree of practice is required to learn the significance of the various unit types, technologies, and paces necessary to play effectively. Route memorization is mandatory to understand the complex wonder system and hierarchy of economic technology/building prerequisites.

For the most part, this game has sufficient quality of life features to keep the players attention on decisions that matter as opposed to menial tasks. Unfortunately, it is missing some key features, such as "goto" options for economic buildings (requiring manual location, selection, and upgrades).