If you prefer quick arcade games the single player game isn't going to be your thing. It's more like an RPG where your character (ship) gets stronger/faster/better over time and you gain more allies. There's also some strategy involved in using the right ship against the foe, and in not going places where you will probably die right away.

As for your ship's facing, i believe that depends on which way it is facing when you get sucked into the encounter (that's how it works for planets, anyway), so if you are always running away, you'll probably always end up facing away.

I find your tantrum rather sad, but i do understand it's not a game for everyone. It was and is almost unique in having a working open-ended and interesting plot, and for how old it is i think it still rates better than an "F" from any reasonable tester. Try the super melee mode and get a feel for the different ships, and that will help you survive in the single player campaign.

I have had a couple requests for a "granny mode" that would let you slow down the action 20% or so. I might add that still if there is more interest just so people who aren't really excited about the combat aspect can enjoy the game.