From what I've read, Spore has been drastically dumbed down. Evolution really doesn't actually matter. Meaning, extra legs don't make you run faster. Most of it is just cosmetic.
Furthermore, Spore has been effectively killed for most serious gamers due to the anti-piracy measures EA put in place. Essentially Spore punishes those who legally buy it. Messed up isn't it?
EA can rot in hell.