Civilization III - PC

If only we could somehow reclaim the lost hours we gave to Sid Meier’s Civilization. Lost hours are usually a good indicator of how good a game is. The third instalment of this incredibly popular turn-based strategy game is now with us. If you prefer thinking through your game rather than perpetually twitching and stabbing at the controller or keyboard, then Civilization 3 is your kind of game.

Civilization 3 is an empire building game where you build and command a given race through history. You are essentially their leader and God, deciding on exploration routes, harvesting natural materials, developing technologies, and interacting with the other races that inhabit your planet. Practically every aspect of human civilisation is touched upon in this game.

The most important new features for Civilization 3 have to be the new ways to win. The Civilization series has always adopted an open-ended approach to gameplay, leaving it up to the players how they choose to complete the game. New ways to win include diplomatic finesse, cultural domination and economic might. There are new combat options to increase the ways in which you deal with the war scenarios, if your diplomacy breaks down of course.

The trade system has been given an overhaul with new systems and commodities, and more options have been added to the diplomatic procedures with the inclusion of a conversational interface and a bargaining table. Another great touch is the new strategically located resources that are scattered around the playing map. Only by using these rare resources can specific new technologies be developed.

Other improvements include new concepts of culture, nationality and arts, plus new wonders, technologies, and Civilization-specific units. The multi-player side of things has been tidied up and the graphics are the best ever.

With so many improvements to an already proven name, Civilization 3 is the strategy game to own.
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