Well the entity system adds an entirely new branch of research, that works separately from workbenches. To make fast progress in the darker research you need mutliple sources of dark research in the form of trapped entities. A LOT can go into the containment of some of these entities, basically making sure you have a room that can actually hold some of this stuff. So from there I actually prefer the research loop to the main method. Not only that it doesn't take AN ENTIRE PAWN'S DAY to actually perform. I haven't caught anything SUPER nasty yet, but I see the pieces that will require a supermax of entity containment. I kinda feel like I could forgo research and move direct into the darker research. Make an army of ghouls.
Honestly I feel like it's definitely bigger than the royalty DLC, and I'm only about five hours in.