There are different modes, but they all share multiplayer-capability. The strategy-mode you heard of is basically a simpler version of "Birth of the Federation" if that means anything to you. You colonize planets, collect their resources and build ships and stations and if a fight starts you have the option to let the computer decide or fly yourself (if you actually intend to win it). You can play alone, network or hot seat/splitscreen. There's also some sort of campaign and a skirmish mode.
Its doesn't sound like much, but its really fun.