For the amount of effort needed to get the resources, the augments that use them are little more than 'meh'. To be honest I want a REALLY good reason to build a multi trillion credit starbase on a node. The problem is the weapons do just fine WITHOUT the augments so why would I bother to get them?
The first augment for most weapons, DECREASES your damage output but in return you get either longer range OR higher rate of fire. This is (in my opinion) terrible. Take away the penalties for using augments on weapons AND defenses and the augment system will look more attractive.
As it is right now (and I know we are in Alpha) there is Zero tactical reason for me to put augments for weapons on my ships. The time and money required to build and acquire the resources does not justify the power of the Augments.
Please tell me this will change.
Oh, and please do (not) put in tactical combat or 3d maps it would change the game far too much..(thought I would stir the pot even more.)