Hi all,
let me invite you to the beta-test of version 0.12 using the experimental branch pass-key:
WelshCorgiPembroke
Just go to the Steam, find Microcivilization in your library, go to its Properties, Betas and insert your key to the text box. 
The branch is already activated and should contain game version 0.12.0
I will be releasing a regular Monday update tomorrow covering what's new in 0.12 (continuing from what was said in August Update). But as a quick summary here's at least some headlines:
Tier 4 ascension tree is now accessible up to Modern era. Besides retaking old upgrades lost in T3 there's a number of new upgrades and also 4 new Artist heroes and several Judgements to be fought.
Artists system has been extended - creating something like a 'meta-economy' allowing you to generate some of the rare Lotuses for 'free'. They can now also Infuse with Idols.
Black lotus capture system was redesigned to be more intuitive (replaced with a new lotus color)
Starting location on map has overview of new Strategic resources, rare techs and Predicaments. The map geography is also more varied and some tile mechanisms updated.
New Strategic resources types (including Chocolate!)
Trade route system completely redone now based on other civilization tiles as the primary mechanism (technically you can now 'claim' their tiles for gold instead of workers)
Hero abilities for Gold and Autonomy have been updated allowing more usability across levels, better scaling and synergies with workshops and wonders.
Predicaments have now been updated (with some new ways to counter them)
Theater hero farming was updated.
Crisis reward system updated (more varied in-game rewards dropping)
Hard difficulty with extra tough crises combat.
Updated Auto skills system with new Auto-Expansion ability.
Various existing mechanisms updated and rebalanced.