I think the game works exactly because of its simplicity. If you'd like a more in-depth gameplay, though, I highly suggest the text-based RPG website https://www.nationstates.net. It will be a bit confusing at first, but it's very fun!
I’m not sure about what you mean with “factbook”, but you can check the progress of your statistics with the graph symbol 📈 right under the flag and the “Political freedom” “Civil rights” and “Economy” indicator. If you want a more general description, you can read it in the main page of your state. The last paragraph will update over time as you play the game, while the first part will change only if significant changes happen, like changing the way you rule the country.
