That initial mission was a relatively recent addition meant to be more accessible for newbs apparently, it's not the main storyline.
I know how you feel -- I felt that Elite: Dangerous was far worse in terms of how it eased new players in and you mastered that game. I couldn't and still really haven't figured out how to do anything more than fly out of the first base and circle it. Plus, well, a ton of menus too.
I'm digging the hot group action!