Here are some suggestions. Hegemonia: Legions of Iron is a really cool game, especially with the graphics. The voice acting is corny as hell but it keeps you very occupied for awhile. Its like a mix between Homeworld and the old Star Wars Rebellion or Star Trek Birth of the Federation games.
Mechwarrior 4 Mercenaries is a great game. You have to play it on the harder settings to remain occupied with it, otherwise its way too easy. Its just like the old Mercenaries game, just better graphics and more voice chatter.
Medieval: Total War is actually one of the best stragety games i have ever played. It lacks in the empire management but the fact that you can command large armies and kick some major butt is really cool. It has historical campaigns and battles like the 100 years war and Stirling Bridge with good ol' William Wallace. I bought this game a couple of months ago and i am still playin it on a regular basis.
Others i liked are Nolf2, MOHAA, RTCW, Neverwinter Nights and BF 1942. Games that should keep us gamers occupied for awhile(When they finally come out) are Splinter Cell, DooM III, Raven Shield, C&C: Generals and CS:CZ. Hope this helps some, you probably already have your games though