Sid Meier's Civilization IV

 PC
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1176 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 926 out of 1176
  2. Mixed: 148 out of 1176
  3. Negative: 102 out of 1176
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  1. RTCWFAN
    Aug 29, 2023
    9
    Civ IV is the best entry of the franchise. After getting into the mechanics, I played about six hours without a pause. Overall rating: 9.2.
  2. Keron_Heruman
    Aug 24, 2023
    9
    As good as all previous civs, with beautiful graphics and more options... Objectively the best civilization of the saga, but each new version loses freshness step by step
  3. wf1675
    Jul 9, 2023
    8
    definitely one of my fav civs as of late but I don't like the happiness system feels like a bottleneck and I don't care for city-states and there's too many barbarians but its soooo much better than civ 6
  4. HydrophobikFish
    Jun 9, 2023
    8
    Lots of fun nation building in this game. Interesting factions and development. Leaders ahd strong character and campaigns seemed well balanced
  5. ReviewsAreBS
    Feb 26, 2023
    10
    Big upgrade from Civ3, which was excellent in it’s own right. Game nails pretty much everything. Even the add-ons are excellent. I haven’t played the sequels so I can’t compare with them.
  6. Babutto
    Jan 20, 2022
    9
    I hated this game after Civ 3. But now, I changed my mind.

    Pros.: - The main advantage - it's simpler and faster. Game mechanics now are super convenient. There is no need to make dozens of units. Just have one dozen and it's enough to advance your troops. - Religion made some problems but with the proper management it creates a deep boundaries between neighbors. - Sharing borders is    I hated this game after Civ 3. But now, I changed my mind.

    Pros.:
    - The main advantage - it's simpler and faster. Game mechanics now are super convenient. There is no need to make dozens of units. Just have one dozen and it's enough to advance your troops.
    - Religion made some problems but with the proper management it creates a deep boundaries between neighbors.
    - Sharing borders is not a big issue now.
    - Dimplomacy became significantly better.
    - More civic policies.

    Cons.:
    - Maybe the same as before. If you fail to invest in the army at the beginning - you're done. The neighbors will attack.
    - A bit complicated with the city attacks. But it elevates the role of the artillery. Developed further in the following games.

    So, it's almost a perfect game. Lol. 20 years ago I would have said it's a disaster.    … Expand
  7. ertyz
    Jan 13, 2022
    9
    very addictive
    very nice game if I need to compare among all other games by the way.
  8. Amorph0us
    Jan 11, 2022
    8
    Maybe the best installment in the series. The level of detail on strategy is satisfactory and I really enjoyed my time playing it.
  9. SebastiedJuan
    Sep 13, 2021
    10
    Fantastic game. Rich, complex, profound, fun. A great game, maybe really amazing only with all the expancions, especially with Behond the sword
  10. KTheSlayer
    Jun 18, 2021
    8
    Great game, with enormous amount of content and abilities to explore. Very high replayability
  11. mrmihailavdeev
    Mar 7, 2021
    10
    When I found out that Civilization IV had been out for a couple of years, I was still playing its predecessor. And if it weren't for the dozens or even hundreds of hours I've spent playing Civ3, coupled with fatigue from its limitations and dumb AI — Civ4 could, potentially, became my favourite instalment in the whole series. Looking back, the fourth part seems to be the most polished andWhen I found out that Civilization IV had been out for a couple of years, I was still playing its predecessor. And if it weren't for the dozens or even hundreds of hours I've spent playing Civ3, coupled with fatigue from its limitations and dumb AI — Civ4 could, potentially, became my favourite instalment in the whole series. Looking back, the fourth part seems to be the most polished and competent iteration of the iconic franchise. Especially if you compare the basic versions, without the paid DLC and add-ons, which the creators of the series are so like to abuse nowadays.

    Sid Meier's Civilization IV inherited the best features of its predecessors, polished its mechanics and made a lot of small changes and improvements to the well-established formula. Thanks to a much more user-friendly and informative interface, fancier graphics, mature stylistics (hello to cartoonish Civ6 and Revolution) and FullHD resolution support — the project looks and plays pleasantly to this day. And the amount of starting content, old and new civilizations, as well as the presence of alternative leaders are surprising.

    Of the drawbacks, I could mention the traditionally inadequate behaviour of the AI (especially when playing at marathon speed on huge maps with the maximum number of opponents), as well as the "unfair" difficulty, which increases not via the "cunning" AI, but through a system of bonuses for computer opponents and penalties for the player. But both of these problems are the scourge of the entire series, which the developers have successfully ignored for over two decades.

    Despite its solid age, Sid Meier's Civilization IV is a great starting point for getting to know the series, especially if you're not interested in online multiplayer. Unlike the newer instalments, Sid Meier's IV is much less demanding in terms of hardware and finances but is just as addictive.    … Expand
  12. Ne_Eretik
    Jan 1, 2021
    10
    В 2020, имея пс 4 про я поигрываю в эту цивилизацию. Не шарю в стратегиях, но по сравнению с 6 ой частью в которую играл, 4ая гораздо пизже, +не норм играется без длс, как не играется 6часть. Аргументы не будут, мне лень и я хочу спать)В 2020, имея пс 4 про я поигрываю в эту цивилизацию. Не шарю в стратегиях, но по сравнению с 6 ой частью в которую играл, 4ая гораздо пизже, +не норм играется без длс, как не играется 6часть. Аргументы не будут, мне лень и я хочу спать)
  13. MPGSpotter
    Dec 12, 2020
    9
    By far the best Civilization game vanilla. With mods it takes on the entire 4X genre
  14. KaleSungurCrane
    Nov 20, 2020
    9
    OVERALL - 93%

    Gameplay - 8/10
    Graphics (for time) - 6/10
    Story - 5/10
    Game Length - 10/10
    Characters - 6/10
    Level/Area Design - 8/10
    Atmosphere - 7/10
    Sound Effects - 9/10
    Soundtrack - 9/10
    Replay Value - 10/10

    The best Civ game since Civ II. Leonard Nimoy adds so much character to the game and I'd happily play this game even now.
  15. Sprixy
    Sep 6, 2020
    8
    A good place to start playing Civilization and a fun gaming experience. Its strategy, history, and thinking all coming together to craft a masterpiece of a game. Overall, this game is something everyone should play.
  16. Sean-M
    May 27, 2020
    8
    This is probably the best entry in Civ series. Considering when you have all the expansions. 8 out of 10.
  17. Wiebe
    Feb 25, 2020
    8
    Best of the Civs, an 8 for its time, even though the game play on the board with the tiles and army movement is quite limited (and the balance for the army part as well).
  18. MatveyShirshik
    May 4, 2019
    10
    Cult strategy. One of the best games of all time. And one of the best parts in the series. Graphics for 2005 is not bad. The gameplay is great. Additions to the game are excellent. This game has no bugs for me. In general, the game gets 10/10
  19. Ydun79
    Feb 11, 2019
    9
    Very good and addictive game. Also very good in multiplayer. It has somewhat of a learning curve but stick with it.
  20. Hotair
    Jul 25, 2018
    8
    I have played thousands of Civ IV games -- literally -- mostly at the low-moderate levels of difficulty, viz. 'Chieftain' and 'Warlord' levels. I've enjoyed the game immensely; this game certainly deserves its 8+ score, but is not without its aggravating AI aspects. It's pretty common to have high, i.e. relentless, levels of barbarian activity early in the game; this can greatly scoreI have played thousands of Civ IV games -- literally -- mostly at the low-moderate levels of difficulty, viz. 'Chieftain' and 'Warlord' levels. I've enjoyed the game immensely; this game certainly deserves its 8+ score, but is not without its aggravating AI aspects. It's pretty common to have high, i.e. relentless, levels of barbarian activity early in the game; this can greatly score you down and compromise your chance of eventually getting good score. Personally I pursue a strategy of peace and rapid educational economic growth, however almost inevitably another civilization will attack you unprovoked. Some opponent civs, notably Montezuma, will attach even without prospect of beating you; you will eventually hold them off but at the cost of a huge set-back to you score. The only way to perhaps avoid or hold off attach is to invest in huge military resource. Apart from these annoying AI quirks, it's a great game.… Expand
  21. Darkatom
    May 20, 2018
    10
    Great game.
    First actual match I played I wasn't paying attention, Walked through India and got demolished by Nuke-Gandhi.
    Full points for realism.
  22. Robobob
    Oct 24, 2017
    10
    The best Civilization game at the time of this review. Some later installments might have added some better features or streamlined some aspects a little better but Civ 4 was the best complete package. If you can find the Beyond the Sword expansion you should try the Rhyse and Fall of Civilization mod: THE best Civ mod ever that totally recreates the game. Civilizations appear on theThe best Civilization game at the time of this review. Some later installments might have added some better features or streamlined some aspects a little better but Civ 4 was the best complete package. If you can find the Beyond the Sword expansion you should try the Rhyse and Fall of Civilization mod: THE best Civ mod ever that totally recreates the game. Civilizations appear on the date they did in history and each has 3 difficult to accomplish historically relevant victory conditions that make each civ a unique play through. I nearly played that mod more than the base game.… Expand
  23. Errtai
    Apr 13, 2017
    10
    A thousand times better than Civ 5, a million times better than Civ 6. Definitely the best of the series, and nostalgia has nothing to do with it. Buy this game.
  24. Archoniz
    Jul 5, 2015
    9
    1 of the most anticipated game through my life, next to Starcraft 2 and Sins of Solar Empire. The game is quite a good time-consumer which are varied in different way to win or deviate a plan on every part of the game. Good time to spend on 6 hours ++, Good animation, less 'buggy' and its awesome. CIV IV is fun to be in multiplayer and Skirmish, even it doesn't have campaign. THE verdict1 of the most anticipated game through my life, next to Starcraft 2 and Sins of Solar Empire. The game is quite a good time-consumer which are varied in different way to win or deviate a plan on every part of the game. Good time to spend on 6 hours ++, Good animation, less 'buggy' and its awesome. CIV IV is fun to be in multiplayer and Skirmish, even it doesn't have campaign. THE verdict is, its a real-time long chess match to be honest.… Expand
  25. elbrowno
    Nov 14, 2014
    10
    I'm really amazed that anyone could rate this game below an 8 for any reason. IMHO Civ IV is the standard that all other strategy games must be measured. Even Civ V is a step backward. The flexibility, the options and different strategies you can employ is simply staggering. I've now played through at least 50 times, and will keep at it as long as other games fail to measure up.
  26. StaticHS
    Apr 4, 2014
    10
    The Sid Meier's Civilization series is a classic, hooking you with strategy that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    There are many civilizations to choose from that are historically accurate.
    Many combinations of settings allow you to get a unique experience from the game every time.
  27. danielrocks
    Feb 3, 2014
    8
    This game is very time consuming and can get frustrating at times but overall it is amazing.....
    It is worth getting defiantly but play other games.
    P.S. Play on the american revolution mod. Its good
  28. cag11
    Nov 29, 2013
    10
    This game has exceeded my expectations after Civ3. I really don't think that this can be beat by almost any game. This is one of those games you can just play over and over and over, and have a completely different experience every time. Honestly, this is a game that would be in almost anyone's top 10.
  29. mc10
    Nov 11, 2013
    10
    Still, by far, one of the best games in the series, and one of the best games ever made. Don't play this game if you do not wish to spend hours upon hours conquering the world.
  30. Diddlethumb
    Oct 15, 2013
    9
    Sorry, went to the wrong game lol and reviewed the wrong game sorry. Can someone perhaps delete my previous one?...ugh...oh well! Off to visist the Civ 5 one!
  31. Damascus
    Oct 1, 2013
    10
    Best game of the series.
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  32. cub317
    Jun 27, 2013
    9
    I can't say I really enjoy strategy games that much. Admittedly, I usually pick them up, and get bored of them really fast. However, I still play them anyway because despite how bored I get of them, I can often see where people who love this genre to death would love these games. That was the case with this game. While I got bored of it and hopped right back into Skyrim, I can totallyI can't say I really enjoy strategy games that much. Admittedly, I usually pick them up, and get bored of them really fast. However, I still play them anyway because despite how bored I get of them, I can often see where people who love this genre to death would love these games. That was the case with this game. While I got bored of it and hopped right back into Skyrim, I can totally see where strategy gaming fans will love this game. It truly is a fantastic game. It takes turn-based strategy to whole new levels. There is no real story to this game, however, it does not even need one. The story is really your own. You get to choose your own famous civilization, and set out to conquer the world through one of six victory conditions. You start out in ancient times with only one warrior and settler in most games. However, you will soon progress further to make giant civilizations that will span across the globe. The graphics and sound are also quite good. There is not a lot of detail in the graphics, however, there does not need to be any detail. The graphics are fine just the way they are. You can easily distinguish how everything looks in this game, so detail is not needed. Everything sounds just the way it should too. The game has a beautiful soundtrack, and the units also sound good. The gameplay is also very good. The game works perfectly as a turn-based strategy game. You make your decisions in turns, so you and your opponents (other civilizations) will each get a fair fight as if it were a more complicated game of chess. However, that's not to say the game is too complicated. The truth is, while this game is very advanced, it is simple at the same time. If you are unsure of what to do in the game, you can just set the difficulty level to its lowest setting, and the game will give you help by recommending certain options over others. It's one of those games that is easy to learn, but hard to master. That is probably the best thing about this game's gameplay. However, there is much more to it than that. The decisions you make can positively or negatively effect your civilization over time, and there is an almost limitless amount of decisions you can make in this game. You can form an alliance with other civilizations in hopes of having a peaceful victory in the end, or you can go to war with them to achieve a conquest victory. You can choose which technology your civilization should advance in, what landmarks it should have, what religions it should practice, and much much more. Believe it or not, there is even more to the gameplay than this. The game is also loaded with extra features. It has an encyclopedia, telling about every unit in the game, along with the history of every civilization (and yes, the history is 100% accurate). This makes the game a nice little history lesson. There are also several mods included with the game that change the way the game is played. There are some mods that follow history, such as mods that are made to completely recreate it, or a specific part of it such as World War II. There are also mods that tell a completely different story, such as a war going on between Russians, and mods that have absolutely nothing to do with history, and instead focus on a kind of fantasy. These mods included really change the game for the better. Overall, despite how bored I get of this game, it really is fantastic. I believe that every strategy gamer will love this game, and it is well deserving of a 9 out of 10.… Expand
  33. joeybear
    Dec 28, 2012
    10
    The best PC game of all time (given you include the expansions), the only drawback here is the game will destroy your productivity. Civ 4 is still the gold standard in 4X strategy; holding up well 7 years after its release.
  34. gist95966
    Dec 28, 2012
    9
    This is a really decent game. I've "only" played civilization 1, 4, and 5 and 1 and 4 were my best experiences. This isn't a review for the other civs, so I will try to limit it to this one. The graphics look better than the screenshots suggest so don't let something like that deter you. What makes this game and civ 1 so great is the level of complexity that goes into your relationshipsThis is a really decent game. I've "only" played civilization 1, 4, and 5 and 1 and 4 were my best experiences. This isn't a review for the other civs, so I will try to limit it to this one. The graphics look better than the screenshots suggest so don't let something like that deter you. What makes this game and civ 1 so great is the level of complexity that goes into your relationships with other countries and your many choices to make during the course of gameplay. Most things you don't like you can turn off. There are only 2 things that bring this game down from a perfect score for me.

    First, is the %'s that the game tells you that you have of winning a fight. It will say something like 98.9% chance for victory... and you lose more like 1/3 of the time. This makes combat a bit frustrating - you never really know your odds of victory and what you resort to doing is saving before a fight so that you don't have to rely on luck to win. If these percentages were accurate I might choose to live with the consequences, but they aren't.

    The other downside and perhaps one that is merely opinion - but I feel enough people agree that it's worth mentioning anyway... is that the game is difficult. I play on the lowest difficulty settings and without feeling like a total wimp (for example giving myself more allies than the enemy has) I usually don't win. I don't play with barbarians anymore, but when I did having them around made the game MUCH more difficult. You can turn them off but it's something to be aware of.

    The first flaw is the only one that feels like a major pain though.. win or lose I still have quite a bit of fun playing.    … Expand
  35. SamisGodzirra
    Nov 29, 2012
    9
    The best turn based strategy ever (in my opinion), better even than any of the empire earth games! A great game that keeps me entertained to this day.
  36. mikhail_lem
    Nov 17, 2012
    10
    This is the most refined and complex Civ iteration to date. Be prepared for some serious empire management, as religion and health provide some new challenges in your path to world domination. Enemy AI is, as always, really clever and its ruthlessness will make you think again before declaring war on someone. The game rewards a skillful diplomacy more than ever before, as allies now are aThis is the most refined and complex Civ iteration to date. Be prepared for some serious empire management, as religion and health provide some new challenges in your path to world domination. Enemy AI is, as always, really clever and its ruthlessness will make you think again before declaring war on someone. The game rewards a skillful diplomacy more than ever before, as allies now are a help more than a nagging nuisance. Graphics are not the best, but they look cool anyway. Absolutely recommended.-… Expand
  37. Chaosmaker
    Oct 1, 2012
    10
    Actually the best installment of the series. With improvements over earlier titles and not being dumbed down as V, it stands solid and on the pedestal of strategic gaming. Better graphics, improved diplomacy, governments and religion, strategic resources plus goodies... And modding. Such power of modding that has never been seen before in Civilization series. I have honestly played thisActually the best installment of the series. With improvements over earlier titles and not being dumbed down as V, it stands solid and on the pedestal of strategic gaming. Better graphics, improved diplomacy, governments and religion, strategic resources plus goodies... And modding. Such power of modding that has never been seen before in Civilization series. I have honestly played this game for so many hours, and tried so many mods that I can't give it less than a perfect score. It would be unjust.… Expand
  38. refdxf
    Jul 6, 2012
    10
    Review includes both expansion packs. This and Master of Orion 2 are the best 2 strategy games I have ever played and everything else I compare to them.
  39. Tubey
    Jun 30, 2012
    8
    Strategy gaming at it's finest. People may argue that the graphical development has taken precedence over gameplay in Civ 4 (the culture system a bit hit and miss, and the end game can end up a bit of a quagmire) but for me the game play is still exceptionally addictive.

    If you enjoy games that make you think before you act, Civ 4 is for you.
  40. Defianc4
    May 6, 2012
    10
    This game's genre is not my kind of thing, but I have to give it props for having the most meticulously balanced design and variety of paths to victory.

    The definitive turn-based strategy game of all time, and will continue to be considering the dismal failure that was V.
  41. Cyrik
    Apr 30, 2012
    10
    This game is simply incredible I have played it often since I got it over a year ago if you have even the slightest interest in this kind of thing it is a must buy.
  42. ultraviper
    Mar 22, 2012
    10
    The best Civilization game of them all. If you can only play one of them, this is it! Note that this review was written AFTER Civilization V has been out for quite a while already. Yes IV is that good.
  43. ArtfulGamer8
    Feb 2, 2012
    10
    to all those who gave it less than 5-6 , the features are perfect u need to bring yourself up instead of sticking up with old features. and for those who cannot tolerate the game's slowness at least don't give bad ratings to ruin the games overall rating and mislead others.its nearly the best non-fight game out there.
  44. jarnold
    Dec 22, 2011
    9
    A revolutionary game for its time, Civ IV is still good nearly 7 years later. By far a better game than Civ V, IV is complex and engaging with more to learn every time you play. If you buy this game, there is a strong chance you will become obsessed and spend hours on end playing. So long as you have the time, Civ IV is much more worthwhile than many of the newer, more expensive games out now.
  45. YeshuaAgapao
    Nov 2, 2011
    10
    The most moddable Civ game out there, if you're a coder. The last game distributed in a 'free' way (not forced to use steam, only DRM crap is the copy protection on the CD/DVD) and where the mods are also independently distributable. Lots more features and some eyecandy too. The last good Civilization game.
  46. MrFable
    Sep 1, 2011
    10
    Awesome game. One of the best Civs. If your trying to decide between this one and Civ 5 get this one Civ 5's a dumbed down peace of **** Also Ian277 is a retard.
  47. island
    Aug 31, 2011
    9
    One of the best strategy games ever. The realistic and a little complex gameplay makes this game a masterpiece. The music is awesome, the graphics is acceptable and it has a great technology tree as well. I only don't like the limited rounds.
  48. dam1730
    Aug 9, 2011
    10
    This game never gets old. It is now six years since the game came out and I am still playing. This is one of those games that beats its successor. Civ V cannot stand up to this game. This game has the right amount of complexity to keep it interesting.
  49. Drissit
    Jul 20, 2011
    10
    Simple the best Civ in the entire series, and if Civ 5 is any clue, its also going to be the pinnacle of the series since the new one is completely awful, oh well at least this one has re-play ability similar to SMAC.
  50. CivforBrains
    Jun 4, 2011
    9
    Great game. Other than some issues with the ATI card I had at the time, I've thoroughly enjoyed this game. Definitely the high water mark of the series.
  51. Tubie
    Oct 2, 2010
    10
    If you do not want to lose hours of your day without noticing... DO NOT get this game, but if you don't mind playing marathon sessions and being totally obsessed with conquering the world then this is the right game for you!
  52. Stylo
    Sep 18, 2010
    10
    By far the best Civ game. Everything, from the military aspect to managing your cities, feel so balanced. In addition, there are plenty of ways to win a battle. Every game truly feels different.
  53. TobyM
    Dec 30, 2009
    9
    Whatever people say about the game being bad is likely because in all honesty it's not just insanely tough, it's also hard to get into. But i give this game a 9 because once you do get into it, it is one of the best strategy games i play to date, the indepth of the culture aspect of the game leads to a whole new way of getting victory, why kill your annoyingly AI oppents when Whatever people say about the game being bad is likely because in all honesty it's not just insanely tough, it's also hard to get into. But i give this game a 9 because once you do get into it, it is one of the best strategy games i play to date, the indepth of the culture aspect of the game leads to a whole new way of getting victory, why kill your annoyingly AI oppents when they can kill your tank with archers (which i've tested and isn't true) when you can expand your cultrual borders into theirs and then before they know it! The city is yours!… Expand
  54. GreatGamer
    Nov 26, 2009
    10
    Best Civ game ever made. Great technology tree, culture, military, superb graphic, music and the best gameplay in strategic games. There are "only" 18 nations (civilizations) but additional are added in the next addons ;P My score is 10-/10, but there are no "-" scores availabele, so i score maxumim ;)
  55. JeraW
    Nov 2, 2009
    10
    This game brought Civilization up to date, addressing many of the old issues such as city sprawl and other limitations that did not match the simulation of empires and advancement that Sid Meier's originally envisioned. Fireaxis had done a great job with the game. They stayed true to the spirit of the game while also starting afresh. The game is the only game I have ever given a 10 This game brought Civilization up to date, addressing many of the old issues such as city sprawl and other limitations that did not match the simulation of empires and advancement that Sid Meier's originally envisioned. Fireaxis had done a great job with the game. They stayed true to the spirit of the game while also starting afresh. The game is the only game I have ever given a 10 rating too.… Expand
  56. JustinSt.J
    Oct 31, 2009
    9
    Excellent game. Enormous replay value. Great online play. There is tons going on and tons of factors to consider... perhaps too many. The game has a good reference guide built in yet this guide is constantly lacking critical information.
  57. JohnM
    Jan 25, 2009
    10
    I've played a lot of turn based strategy games. This one is the best, particularly with the expansions. Tremendous replayability. The AI is fairly challenging. There are many different paths to victory and each is completely different. More than 3 years after this game was released I am still playing it regularly.
  58. JohnR
    Dec 14, 2008
    9
    This is my first experience of Civilisation and I'm impressed. I love the 'Great Person' feature and the Golden Ages. There are some excellent unique units and buildings - I always play as Peter The Great because Cossacks give me a distinct advantage over Cavalry in the middle part of the game. There are some excellent wonders to build as well. Always save the Globe Theatre This is my first experience of Civilisation and I'm impressed. I love the 'Great Person' feature and the Golden Ages. There are some excellent unique units and buildings - I always play as Peter The Great because Cossacks give me a distinct advantage over Cavalry in the middle part of the game. There are some excellent wonders to build as well. Always save the Globe Theatre and National Park wonders until the end of the game when you'll have a large population (my biggest city had a population of 40) ! My only gripe is a complaint I would also level against games such as Rise of Nations : at the end of the game the original uniqueness of the different civs has disappeared and every civ is pretty much the same. I suppose this is realistic though. Also, micromanagement can get a bit tedious when you have 30 or 40 cities. However, this is a game that I'll come back to time and time again because it has plenty of depth and every game is different. I wish there were more old school PC games in development. We can only hope. Another winner from Sid Meier.… Expand
  59. DavidB.
    Sep 19, 2008
    10
    Falls very short of being as good as the CIV II and a great evolution if you put against Civ III. This game is awesome. The EXP only add flavour to the game, as it is comlet by it´s own. The religion aproach was great and the animations and batle system is very good. But if like really realistic games , than make your own. Even Europa Universalis isn´t completely accurate and Falls very short of being as good as the CIV II and a great evolution if you put against Civ III. This game is awesome. The EXP only add flavour to the game, as it is comlet by it´s own. The religion aproach was great and the animations and batle system is very good. But if like really realistic games , than make your own. Even Europa Universalis isn´t completely accurate and realistic, but there sure are fun. Buy it.… Expand
  60. DavidM.
    Jul 14, 2008
    10
    I love simulation games, and this is undoubtedly my favorite and, in my opinion, the best out there!
  61. BalazsC.
    Jul 7, 2008
    10
    Civ 1 was a revolutionary game. Civ 2 was a worthy successor. Civ 3 was well.. a step into a new direction. This game however. This game gives you the greatness of civ 1, the streamlined feeling you had in civ 2 and if that wouldn't be enough, civ 4 manages to do the impossible and takes the game even further. The only real negative i could mention in regards of this game is the Civ 1 was a revolutionary game. Civ 2 was a worthy successor. Civ 3 was well.. a step into a new direction. This game however. This game gives you the greatness of civ 1, the streamlined feeling you had in civ 2 and if that wouldn't be enough, civ 4 manages to do the impossible and takes the game even further. The only real negative i could mention in regards of this game is the fact, that it will completely take over your life. Other than that, its 10/10 +. One of the titles that truly deserve the maximum score.… Expand
  62. Oyster
    Jun 18, 2008
    8
    This game is very fun to play, but it's pretty unbalanced.
  63. NealV.
    Feb 26, 2008
    9
    Very good and addicting gameplay. Fans of the genre will spend hours replaying with different civilizations and options. Difficulty allows players of different abilities and investment to play at a challenging level. Only drawback is ok AI and tedious micromanagement near the end of the game. Expansion packs help with the AI.
  64. MarkV.
    Jan 24, 2008
    10
    This game is a huge improvement from the last versions so I give this a ten.
  65. ZachF.
    Jan 2, 2008
    10
    To all the people who say "this game sucks", "you can't build more than 6 or 7 cities because the economy crashes", and other things, tell me which is more realistic: 1. 30 tiny little towns all based around one big city, which is constantly having people go make more tiny little towns. 2. 6 or 7 large, well developed cities, with little tiny towns (the civ 4 way, not the civ 3 way To all the people who say "this game sucks", "you can't build more than 6 or 7 cities because the economy crashes", and other things, tell me which is more realistic: 1. 30 tiny little towns all based around one big city, which is constantly having people go make more tiny little towns. 2. 6 or 7 large, well developed cities, with little tiny towns (the civ 4 way, not the civ 3 way of towns) growing into more large, well developed cities. To elaborate, the civ 3 towns, in my view, are size 1 and size 2 cities, and civ 4 towns, in my view, are the "town" culture improvement.… Expand
  66. MilesL.
    Dec 28, 2007
    10
    I have never spent so much time on a game, even though i only played single player
  67. Anon
    Dec 26, 2007
    10
    Really solid and fun turn based strategy game, and worthy sequel to Civ series. It's not perfect, though. It has few bugs, and the AI is not that good, but these are minor flaws, as the game itself is really enjoyable and replayable. I'd give it 8 or 9, but for the sheer despise for the ignorant people who gave this game 0-2 points, I'll give it a 10. Even disasters like Really solid and fun turn based strategy game, and worthy sequel to Civ series. It's not perfect, though. It has few bugs, and the AI is not that good, but these are minor flaws, as the game itself is really enjoyable and replayable. I'd give it 8 or 9, but for the sheer despise for the ignorant people who gave this game 0-2 points, I'll give it a 10. Even disasters like Halo 3 deserve more than 2 points.… Expand
  68. AlexM.
    Nov 18, 2007
    10
    This game is amazing, but even better than original content is the user community thats helped craft it into a game engine that can do anything.
  69. YannickB.
    Oct 29, 2007
    9
    It's a great game with a whole range of concepts and stuff, you can spend hours creating your empire, it's just sad there's only a turn-based mode, i'd love to play without the turns.
  70. JonathanM.
    Sep 30, 2007
    9
    I think this may be one of those games where fans of the previous titles in the series will either love this one or hate it, with few exceptions. I, for one, played Civ 2 Gold for days and weeks on end. I adored that game, yet I barely touched Civ 3. After being pushed into playing the 4th, I rediscovered my love of the Civ series, for the most part. One thing all fans of Civ 3 who read I think this may be one of those games where fans of the previous titles in the series will either love this one or hate it, with few exceptions. I, for one, played Civ 2 Gold for days and weeks on end. I adored that game, yet I barely touched Civ 3. After being pushed into playing the 4th, I rediscovered my love of the Civ series, for the most part. One thing all fans of Civ 3 who read this must be aware of is that this is **much** different from Civ 3. Go to www.civfanatics.com (biggest Civ fan site) and look for articles comparing the two, especially the one that specifically addresses Civ 3 players who are having a miserable time with the game. The gist of the article is this: **This is not Civ 3, and if you play it like it's Civ 3 YOU WILL LOSE**. Most agree, after getting over that, that Civ 4 is the far superior game. I won't go into all of the details; you can look those up for yourself. There IS an issue with Civ 4's formula for barbarian activity, however, that should also be made known in these reviews so that no one will be disappointed. **The bigger your map is and the more civs you add, the worse the barbarian problems will be.** Don't start off on a huge map with lots of civs. Start small and learn what's different in Civ 4 first. Ok, have I moved past all of the necessary disclaimers yet? I forget. I hope so. Civ 4 is a deep, interesting, and fairly balanced strategy game. We've come along way since the 2nd and certainly since the 1st. Civ specific units are in from the last one, as well as special buildings. The biggest difference on the front end, though, are the leaders. Yeah, they're historical, but, more importantly, their various abilities (more added in the two expansions) become specialized tools for however the player would like to play the game. Strategies have never been more diverse in the series. Hannibal sure as heck ain't gonna play like Gandhi. These strategies make use of everything: old and new concepts. To keep this from becoming much longer than it already is, I'll just say that everything is much improved and evolved over the previous iterations, and readers would be wise to give a good Civ strategy site a look to get the hang of the finer points of the game and its various strategies. Hmmm, well, then why did I give it only a 9? Civ 4 lacks the ocean of mods and scenarios that the previous versions, especially the 2D versions, had. That's a no brainer, of course. Not as many people have or would like to take the time to develop the skills necessary to do that in a 3D game like Civ 4. It's sad, but it was inevitable, too. Still, Civ 4 is a Civ title in all the glory a fan would expect. Great game.… Expand
  71. MikeC.
    Jul 23, 2007
    10
    Back in college, i'd play civ 2 for fifteen hours, only getting up from my chair to pee. i have been a huge civ fan for over a decade. i loved civ2, didn't care so much for civ3; as for civ4...oh my god, this is the best video game ever created, hands down. Woohoo!!!
  72. M.A.
    Jul 2, 2007
    9
    Once this one arrived, i knew my private life will have to go on hold for quite some time.
  73. Barlog.
    Jun 27, 2007
    10
    Perfect Game. I felt like an accountant in Civ 3 and II. The first one made me feel like the real ruler and warlord. In Civ4 i feel a ruler again. Thank you Sid for finally making a good sequel for Civ 1.
  74. JohnD.
    May 19, 2007
    10
    Amazing strategy and just the incredible amount of variablity.
  75. AdamS.
    Mar 12, 2007
    9
    I have always enjoyed the civilization series and I think this is a great addition.
  76. ChrisC.
    Feb 24, 2007
    10
    Hated this when I first played it. I'd been a big fan of all three previous Civilization versions and just could not believe what they'd done to the latest version. The maps seemed smaller, a lot of things appeared to be simplified, etc. However, a few hours later I was hooked - this is by far the best of the series. The unimportant stuff's been automated and some new key Hated this when I first played it. I'd been a big fan of all three previous Civilization versions and just could not believe what they'd done to the latest version. The maps seemed smaller, a lot of things appeared to be simplified, etc. However, a few hours later I was hooked - this is by far the best of the series. The unimportant stuff's been automated and some new key elements added such as religions. If you like strategy games, this is a must.… Expand
  77. NickU.
    Jan 8, 2007
    10
    I've been playing Civ since Civ I and Civ II was always my favorite. Now along comes Civ IV and it is the perfect upgrade. It brings back the fun of Civ II with a pretty face and removes some of the tedious stuff that brought Civ III down. Great game.
  78. AndrewR.
    Oct 23, 2006
    10
    Fantastic game! Multiplayer is absolutely amazing. Definately get it if you're a fan of strategy games.
  79. JussiA.
    Oct 2, 2006
    10
    I had thought my playing habits were falling for good as I more and more rarely found myself playing long hours of any game. But Civilization 4 took me by suprise. I got it at 11 'o clock when I was just about to goto the lecture. The lecture was skipped and after 16 hours I finally went to sleep. Also the next day I skipped all the lectures that day. Even now after a year I still I had thought my playing habits were falling for good as I more and more rarely found myself playing long hours of any game. But Civilization 4 took me by suprise. I got it at 11 'o clock when I was just about to goto the lecture. The lecture was skipped and after 16 hours I finally went to sleep. Also the next day I skipped all the lectures that day. Even now after a year I still find myself playing the famous "one more turn" all over again. But nowadays I only play on my leisure time. Civanonymous video was so funny, because it was true.… Expand
  80. DavidL.
    Sep 27, 2006
    10
    Civilization IV is a great game, it is very addictive and requires alot of skill to play and win. When playing Civilization IV it teaches you about history and it also makes you have fun at the same time!
  81. MattB.
    Jul 11, 2006
    10
    At first it was hard to transfer from Civ3 to Civ4, but once you get how to play a great experience. The online can be slow when loading, but once you get going its real fun. A great strategy game and well improved.
  82. PeterM.
    Jul 2, 2006
    8
    Great game, although it stops in 2780 AD. Probably my civ is too large. At end turn, the game stops.
  83. BrettL.
    Jun 6, 2006
    10
    Absolutely awesome - 100% improvement on Civ III
  84. BradR.
    May 26, 2006
    10
    Unit promotions and inventive new wonders push the strategy to a new level. AI is improved as well. it waits until it has an optimal amount of units before advancing, rather than immediatly sending new units into battle, no matter the odds. I'm still waiting to for them to ressurect the advisor's screen in Civ2 where you have Elvis and Co.
  85. EricS.
    May 3, 2006
    10
    Long time Civ fan and this is far and away an improvement on every level. The graphics, the playability, the new interface.
  86. G.I.
    Apr 26, 2006
    10
    The best Civ ever. Much improved in every aspect. I can't believe all the nay-sayers. They shouldn't lose time with TBS anyway if they can't appreciate Civ IV.
  87. MorganC.
    Mar 30, 2006
    10
    This is, quite literally, the best game I've ever played. Will keep you hooked for hours on end.
  88. RobertN.
    Mar 29, 2006
    10
    The ultimate in strategy. If you
  89. MurderousEmu
    Feb 26, 2006
    9
    I can't believe some of the reasons people have for giving this game a bad rating. Ok, the steep system requirements and buggy initial release are valid, but wanting the scale of units to be more accurate? You idiots. How would you be able to see them? Then there's the gripe about the game playing itself. It has 7 or 8 difficulty levels, try a harder one if it's too easy I can't believe some of the reasons people have for giving this game a bad rating. Ok, the steep system requirements and buggy initial release are valid, but wanting the scale of units to be more accurate? You idiots. How would you be able to see them? Then there's the gripe about the game playing itself. It has 7 or 8 difficulty levels, try a harder one if it's too easy for you, or just turn off the tips and City Governors. I agree that it suggests some pretty stupid moves, but a 10 second look through the Options menu solves that problem you retards. And finally, my favorite; "Why isn't there a difference between religions?" Gee, let's think about this for a minute. I really can't see any problems coming from that. Who would get offended or argue over differing views on something as trivial as Religion? (That was sarcasm). Besides, does it really matter? You can still create a peaceful, loving civ, or a nation full of war-mongering fanatics. What you call the god that you do these things in the name of is just a formality really. Civ IV is a great game that shows an honest effort by Firaxis not to rest on there laurels, but to improve upon an already great formula. If you don't think they accomplished that, at least come up with a good reason.… Expand
  90. S.Omer
    Feb 19, 2006
    10
    Best game ever. AI is really good, alot of depth AND great graphics (after patching). Buy this game. Period.
  91. BillC.
    Feb 19, 2006
    10
    This isn't Quake or Half-Life or Far Cry. It is a strategy game. If you can't handle strategy then don't buy this game. However, if you enjoy thinking and planning then you can't go wrong with Civ 4. Like others here Civ 3 was a let down in my eyes. However, Civ 4 storms back and is just awesome. Have completed the game three times now - each with a different This isn't Quake or Half-Life or Far Cry. It is a strategy game. If you can't handle strategy then don't buy this game. However, if you enjoy thinking and planning then you can't go wrong with Civ 4. Like others here Civ 3 was a let down in my eyes. However, Civ 4 storms back and is just awesome. Have completed the game three times now - each with a different strategry. There is tons of flexibility for just about any type of player. Trust me - you'll get your $50 back in gameplay. Hours and hours of fun!… Expand
  92. PaulClarke
    Jan 17, 2006
    9
    Excellent game - after the dissapointment of Civ III (The day I bought Civ III ended with me re-installing Civ II) This game has everything.

    People her say you can't micromanage the cities...Oh yes you can - you just don't have to (it's an option) LIkewise the autoexplore etc YOU CAN DO IT YOURSELF IF YOU LIKE.
  93. CarloR.
    Jan 16, 2006
    8
    Good game. Potentially addicting for spurts of time, but also potentially repetitive, predictable and tedious. A 9.3?? Alongside such classics as Baldur's Gate II, Quake or Civ 2?!! Ridiculous. I was blown away by Civ 2, dissapointed w/ Civ3, and found this one to be good, but not deserving of the effusive praise seen here.
  94. JakeL.
    Jan 13, 2006
    10
    Great game! They have fixed all of the problems with the old game and made this one much better!
  95. EddieB.
    Jan 8, 2006
    9
    I must say I really enjoy this game. I have been playing Civ since 1993. Oringal Civ was good, Civ II was excellent, Civ III had some neat ideas but cheated a lot and was a bit of a bummer although the "Conquest" expansion made it a bit better it still wasn't close to the excellent Civ II. Now there is Civ IV and I must say after playing two games for a total of 25 hours that I quite I must say I really enjoy this game. I have been playing Civ since 1993. Oringal Civ was good, Civ II was excellent, Civ III had some neat ideas but cheated a lot and was a bit of a bummer although the "Conquest" expansion made it a bit better it still wasn't close to the excellent Civ II. Now there is Civ IV and I must say after playing two games for a total of 25 hours that I quite like it. The game works very smooth for me, I have a Ati 9800 but have no problems at all. The game (version 1.09) has crashed once and with the new patch (1.52) it hasn't crashed at all. I love the fact that you can set it at Marathon now, the game takes a lot longer and you really have time to build up an army and go to war. In the past it happened a lot that by the time you were ready to attack your units were obsolete already. Non of this in marathon setting. The in game music is great also. I only don't like the 3D graphics, it's to hard to get a good view of your part of the world, and the in game movies are still a let down compared to the fantastic Civ II in games movies (classical music and very unique little movies). I highly recommend this game.… Expand
  96. JasonL.
    Jan 7, 2006
    9
    This game is so much better than Civ III. They have left out all the tedious micro-management and enhanced the areas which make it more fun. Obviously they have listened to players gripes and recommendations and produced a work of art. Fantastic.
  97. Bass
    Jan 6, 2006
    10
    Seriously, if you have not already go and buy this game right now. I could literally talk for hours about how amazing and addictive this title is but you can never truely understand such things until you play it for yourself. I was unlucky enough to miss previous installments in the Civilization series, and was overjoyed when this forth game was finally announced. Incredibly accessible Seriously, if you have not already go and buy this game right now. I could literally talk for hours about how amazing and addictive this title is but you can never truely understand such things until you play it for yourself. I was unlucky enough to miss previous installments in the Civilization series, and was overjoyed when this forth game was finally announced. Incredibly accessible and overflowing with depth and creativity, Civ 4 is easily the game of the year for the PC, and overall the series of Civ titles are with out a doubt some of the best games ever made on any platform.… Expand
  98. EdoardoD.
    Jan 2, 2006
    8
    Excellent game! Not as complex as Civilization 3, but there are some new things to compensate! I don't understand the need for a 3d world, it makes the game graphic quite heavy and slow down everything, especially in multiplayer. Nevertheless the best Sid Meyer's Civilization!
  99. Nic
    Dec 30, 2005
    10
    I never liked Civilization games before, but this one pulled me in. The graphics are superb and it's easier than ever for newbies. It's deeper and overall more satisfying.
  100. G.C.
    Dec 30, 2005
    10
    All I have to say to the whiners complaining of it being dumbed down is, use your brain and turn off the automation. This is still the best game ever, and while the concept wouldn't change (shy should it?), they've made some adjustments that seem to make the game overall more intuitive and workable.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PC Game of 2005
7
#7 Most Discussed PC Game of 2005
8
#8 Most Shared PC Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 50 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 50 out of 50
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 50
  3. Negative: 0 out of 50
  1. IGN
    94
    While the game hasn't lost any depth or detail, every aspect of the design has been streamlined to make it easier for new players to jump in and less monotonous for veterans. Die-hard fans will definitely find that the game offers up so much more variety this time around.
    Read full review
  2. Yahoo!
    90
    Firaxis shows an impressively consistent grasp of what to abstract and what to detail, and a remarkable talent for presenting large-scale strategic challenges in a format that's easy to digest.
    Read full review
  3. 1UP
    90
    From the mellow sounds of Leonard Nimoy's narration to the polished world view that allows you to smoothly scroll from satellite view to up-close and personal, this is the consummate update of a classic.
    Read full review
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