They're not everyone's cup of tea obviously, but good thing they are largely optional! Compared to the amount of existing puzzles in the game, the amount you are required to interact with for plot purposes is rather small, and they're simple at that. Optional puzzles reward potentially better loot and resources, and some reward points for stat increases. They're by no means required to complete the game.

If you're a self-professed Completionist but do not want to complete them, then you're not a Completionist. A Completionist completes. Period.

The game is absolutely gorgeous I think many would agree. Exploring each sector is a joy and pure eye candy. For me nearly all of the puzzles have been rather intuitive, and many clues are provided through color, lighting, gas and symbols. When you're looking at an unexplored area 5-8km out, chances are you'll be able to pick up on things that stick out. Colorful gas, blinking mines, glowing blue crystals. All you need to do is look.

Traditional looter shooters and even ARPGs contain puzzles and loot gained through exploration. I think it may be a little taxing for some in this game because the maps are so incredibly large, and traversing 3D space with complete freedom of movement can get confusing. "Was I here already? Wait, where was that area I wanted to go to?" Markers are your friend! The default key is + on the number pad. It'll leave a marker where you pressed the key, and you can use several of them. Use it as a means to track where you've been.

Also, heading and orientation can be pretty important. What I like to do on some maps is explore it in the same horizontal orientation as much as possible. Make your own "horizon" as it were. If you get lost or unsure of where you've been, pick a landmark and keep it oriented in the same position with Q and E. Rotate until you get it in that familiar position again and carry on. It's a lot harder to get lost that way and keep track of things.