During the four years I have lived in Des Moines, I have tried many different games, but only ever used three different systems. Two of those games were Alternity's Star*Drive and Exalted.
Star*Drive - I really liked Alternity and after an attempt at Fantasy, we went to SciFi. I thought I had some good ideas and things were going well. The problem is that I prefer Fantasy to SciFi. In many ways, in terms of telling a story, they are very similar. I am more comfortable with Fantasy, though, and moved back to it. I had a lot of fun with this game, though, and it allowed me to get some fun computer programs to help me tell a SciFi story.
Exalted - I really like White Wolf's gaming systems and Exalted is no exception. However, it was rough, as anything would be the first time it is used. I learned a lot and would gladly play it again but am content with my Fantasy Alternity campaign. I think the toughest part was to absorb and learn it all and try to convey it to my players without it beng a lecture. I do think second edition has a lot more to offer in terms of conveying style and story ideas and do hope to use it some day.