Major Hans, ever played Starfleet Command? I think they're up to about version 3.. I got into that when it was just Starfleet Command and well the ships modeled there were incredible. I've been reading they've modeled new damage models etc. But as far as exploring galaxies, there are communities which setup scenarios using the game. You play out the game via web, but the battles etc are played in game. They have scripts and modifications for different types of fights, and or encounters. I think they have 8 races now, don't remember them all, but the ones I do remember, were Federation, Romulan, Klingon, Lyran, Hydrans, and those dudes that used trash to run their ships Goarins(they were actually really tough in the game)?
Anyhow if you're looking for a Starfleet game check it out, I really enjoyed it, especially the Multiplayer aspect...
-BlckMgk