This game is worth it in the long run. At first, it almost seems impossible and unplayable after 10 or 20 hours of gameplay. But if you stick to it the game really blossoms out in the end. One factor that helped with it is buying the Megapack, which is only $10 or so. It's worth it after you've played for free for a while. Just play long enough to convince yourself that the game is fun and enjoyable, and either

1. walk away, or
2. give the money like it's a donation.

Also, i did buy a couple of the credit packs while they were two for one. Really helped me get established in buying stations and setting up a manufacturing empire.

So there's that. I'm still exploring the outer solar systems in game, looking to see if that alien creature in the game banner even exists or not.

I found that once I had a fleet of nearly every type of ship in game, plus upgrading them all to max, and arming and allowing missile boats to fire upon enemies, I hardly do any work at all and battles last less than a minute before every enemy target is down. And with good Syndicate faction, repairs, fuel and even ammo is donated to the cause, leaving only profits for your empire!