Rated Excellent Based on 485 Reviews
Sid Meier's Civilization series has been a mainstay in the strategy gaming genre since its inception in 1991. The franchise's latest entry, Civilization VI, not only lives up to its predecessors' high standards but also adds new layers of depth and complexity that have made it an instant classic. In this review, we'll explore the game's mechanics, visuals, soundtrack, and overall appeal to help you decide whether it's worth your time and money. So, let's embark on this thrilling journey through the ages and see why Civilization VI is a must-play game for any strategy enthusiast.
Gameplay
Civilization VI continues the series' tradition of turn-based, empire-building gameplay where players are tasked with guiding a civilization from the dawn of humanity to the space age. To do so, they must carefully manage resources, research technologies, engage in diplomacy, wage wars, and ultimately, dominate the world.
The game introduces several new features that significantly enhance the gameplay experience. Districts, for example, are a standout addition. Players can now designate specific areas of their cities for specific functions, such as science, culture, or military. This adds a new layer of strategic depth, as players must carefully plan their city layouts to maximize their benefits.
Another game-changing feature is the revamped technology and civic trees. These trees now include various boosts called 'Eurekas' and 'Inspirations,' which are activated by completing specific actions or meeting certain criteria in-game. By triggering these boosts, players can significantly speed up their progress through the tech and civic trees, further emphasizing the importance of well-planned strategies.
Visually, Civilization VI is a treat. The game's art style is both detailed and colorful, creating a vibrant, living world that is a joy to explore. From the lush rainforests to the sprawling deserts, each terrain type is beautifully rendered and filled with personality.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack of Civilization VI is nothing short of fantastic. Composed by Grammy-winning artist Christopher Tin, the music evolves as players progress through the eras, providing an immersive experience that enhances the gameplay. Each civilization has its own unique theme, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves as a useful audio cue to identify other civilizations as they are encountered throughout the game.
Multiplayer
Civilization VI offers a robust multiplayer experience, allowing players to compete or cooperate with one another in various game modes. The game supports both online and local multiplayer, with options for ranked play and private matches. Additionally, Civilization VI features cross-platform support, enabling players on different systems to join forces or face off against one another.
Expansions
Two major expansions have been released for Civilization VI: "Rise and Fall" and "Gathering Storm." Both expansions introduce new gameplay elements, civilizations, leaders, and wonders that greatly enhance the base game experience. "Rise and Fall" focuses on the rise and fall of civilizations, introducing mechanics like loyalty, governors, and era scores. "Gathering Storm," on the other hand, brings dynamic weather and natural disasters to the game, alongside a revamped World Congress and diplomatic victory condition.
Both expansions are highly recommended for players who have enjoyed the base game, as they provide countless additional hours of gameplay and open up new strategic possibilities.
Replayability
One of the most impressive aspects of Civilization VI is its replayability. With 50 civilizations to choose from (including those introduced in expansions), each with its own unique abilities and playstyles, there is virtually an endless array of strategies and tactics to explore. The game's procedurally generated maps ensure that no two playthroughs are the same, while the adjustable game settings and difficulty levels allow players to tailor their experience to their preferences.
Moreover, the modding community for Civilization VI is active and dedicated, providing an ever-growing library of custom content that can breathe new life into the game. From new civilizations and leaders to gameplay tweaks and visual enhancements, mods can offer fresh perspectives and challenges for even the most seasoned players.
Accessibility
Civilization VI strikes a delicate balance between depth and accessibility. Newcomers to the series will appreciate the comprehensive tutorial system, which covers the basics of gameplay and introduces core mechanics. Additionally, the in-game advisor system provides helpful guidance and advice tailored to the player's current situation, ensuring that even those new to the genre can enjoy the game without feeling overwhelmed.
For veterans of the series, Civilization VI offers a wealth of strategic depth and complexity, with countless new mechanics and systems to master. While it might take some time to adjust to the game's changes, long-time fans will likely appreciate the new layers of strategy and decision-making that Civilization VI introduces.
Bottom Line
Sid Meier's Civilization VI is an absolute masterpiece of strategy gaming. Its blend of deep, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a captivating soundtrack create an immersive experience that is hard to put down. With its high replayability, accessibility, and dedicated modding community, Civilization VI has something to offer for everyone, whether they are newcomers to the series or long-time fans.
