Civilisation IV

Civilisation IV
by Firaxis



Like all narcissists, I want to rule the world. If you feel the same way then 'Civ IV' is the perfect game to unleash your inner tyrant. Overlooking the shiny graphical improvements and smaller additions such new units, buildings and civics; the most important addition is religion which adds a major new element to diplomacy and culture. The campaigns are also noticeably shorter and can be regularly completed in less than ten hours, even on the longest game setting. This makes the games more accessible to newcomers while still being engrossing to veterans; its hard to describe the joy of finally kicking Bismarck up the arse after having to endure his 'demands' for a few thousand years. It is fair to say that this is not just the best strategy game of 2005, but in fact the best of any genre, overcoming even the high standards set by 'Resident Evil 4' in spring. Owning a copy is almost certain not only to make you miss work but also to neglect your social life. Then again, ruling the world is a lonely business. [Craig Wilson]