Hello Captain Maximus !
I'm a new player too; I joined the game in January 2018 and I really enjoy it. It is indeed extensive, but it is not overwhelming. It's measured; and as you advance, so too do the opportunities and dimensions of this game.
The freedom is breathtaking in Core Exiles. You really can do and become whatever you choose in this game: fighter, explorer, pirate, freight hauler, merchant prince, etc. You are given a ship and several galaxies of opportunity, and the rest is up to you and your choices.
After you learn the basic principles (level 5+) by playing the beginner's missions, you might want to consider joining a guild. Guild's have resources and mentors that can help you advance in the game more quickly and have more fun.
I joined the Aesir guild, and I am quite pleased with it: there are 10%+ bonuses on credits and experience, plenty of mentoring if you ask, plenty of written materials to study, a loan program to buy a better ship, and no one pushing you to give them money or services just for joining. You can join and do nothing else and collect the 10%+ bonuses on credits and experience. But, it's more enjoyable to participate and help others. Contact a player by the name of Locknload for more information.
Right now, in honor of the Olympics and Special Olympics, there is an Olympic Competition in the Core Exiles game. You can read more about it here:
viewtopic.php?f=32&t=2652&p=15232 It is wrapping up this weekend.
One of the big issues of the game is fuel. You can't go to places and do things without it. Better reactors work more efficiently. Those can take time to save for and to acquire, however. In the meantime, here are some ways to get more fuel:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=694
Enjoy the game.
John Carter Barsoom