I was also gone for 2 years, while deployed, and I've noticed some very large changes. Alien Invasion brings a new depth to the game, especially with Lost Eden released today after the 190 hour down time
. Newb Island has changed a whole lot, as you will notice. Aliens now are part of the start up, along with Aggroing Salamanders, Big Snakes, and LVL 10 "Evil Agents" who give no XP. The only thing you really missed was the time when the aliens on newb island dropped up to QL15 Alium Weapons. Which again is part of the changes. Alien Weapons, and especially armor, have ratified the term "twinking" in the way it was previously used. People are getting QL200 Implants in at level 90, its insane. The Alien Weapons have their ups and downs, but the armor, other than its price, is incredible. While your AI Helm may cost you 300m, its worth it when it gives bonuses to almost every weapon in your class, ie ranged, melee, phsical. With AI also came new perks, and depending on your profession, wonderful perks. Two of you can achieve at Newb Island. They add massive bonuses and fill spots that previously that had no benefits. AI Raids, ie going to your Orgs AI City, which almost all have now, killing a bunch of ugly aliens, then boarding their ship and killing everything in sight, have become quite popular with the Armor, Weapons, and Perks I previously mentioned. I say find a good org, do some raiding and see how you like it. GL and HF