Review of Civilization powered by the Slant community.
The first and best of the turn based sim-game.
Play it for free in your browser on Classic Reload.
Or download a pre-packed DOS Box version on GamesNostalgia
Also see the modern open source version FreeCiv
SpecsUpdate
PlatformsDOS
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Immersive, highly addictive
Once you start, you're committed for at least three hours.
Pro Defined a game genre
The original Civilization is responsible for bringing the 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, and eXterminate) genre to masses and defining certain characteristics that are now staples of the genre.
Because Civilzation was commercially highly successful other publishers tried to replicate Civ's success.
Cons
Con Big learning curve.
Managing everything from resources to armies to research is a delicate balance.
Con No multiplayer
The original version had no multiplayer.