I played this weekend. I think they have an awesome framework for the game that will be put in. Once a few of the kinks are worked out it will make for one helluva good game.
I'm glad to hear there were some changes regarding the housing and gardens. I played a few games and the building aspect was getting really tedious. I think in the other threads it is better debated, but I hope they go for a "less is more" option here.
I really liked exploring around and seeing the random worlds. I do wonder about how the movement is going to play out. Tried a bunch of different Sovereigns but the only one who seemed worthwhile was the guy who could move fast. I ended up killing all the NPCs and leveling up movement so I could move like 16 tiles per turn. Nothing wrong with being fast, but I was super fast compared to the bum who could only move one 
I"m really looking forward to the tactical battles! I can't wait for more!