That's how I think of it. I really enjoy the system (even with some load times).
It's true there are a bunch of great E.D.F. type Space Shooters. The one you saw might have been Pulstar. It's a really tough, but ultimately great, game like E.D.F. is.
It is good to have some ventilation. I try to leave a bit of space on the sides and top (since it's a top loader). It's kind of a big system (sort of the same size as 3DO), but it's pretty cool.
Thanks for sending the instructions. I'll try to play the first turn right away.
By the way, I just realized I never answered your last question on the NGCD. The system is more in the treat it like gold category. It's somewhat fragile. It should work for awhile engine wise, but it's kind of like a sports car: sleek and elegant, yet with a fragile body.