I don't think EL2 will do well at launch. It's much, much too streamlined compared to EL1.
Negatives
The UI is too bright and colorful.
Unit customization is replaced by upgrades you buy
Heroes are now just super units
Governors and empire plans are replaced by a council
Tile acquisition is done with with influence instead of expanding to them with burrows
Lack of art for events
Ruins are replaced by provisions
Horrible time period choice
Positives
Combat overhaul is very welcome
Diverse amount of buildings that interact with the environment
Mixed
Marriage system
Quests being more dialogue heavy

Even looking past the negatives I still can't recommend EL2.