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.
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.
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.
10
One of the best games i ever played. I loved every minute of it and it was something fresh.
10
Anything less than 10/10 is a lie.
This is the best game ever developed, especially with the BTS extension.
4
Probably the weakest game in the Civ series together with the 2nd. Did not not like the graphics style nor the gameplay.
Sid Meier's Civilization IV
Released On:
Oct 25, 2005
Metascore
Universal Acclaim
94
User score
Generally Favorable
8.4
My Score
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All Platforms
Metascore
Universal Acclaim
94
100% Positive
50 Reviews
50 Reviews
0% Mixed
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
100
The absolute best thing about Civilization IV is that previous experience with the series (or strategy games for that matter) isn’t necessary.
100
The graphics are solid and sharply focused, while the cities that used to expand all too predictably now take on more organic growth patterns that spread to encompass land between cities more naturally.
User score
Generally Favorable
8.4
82% Positive
893 Ratings
893 Ratings
14% Mixed
152 Ratings
152 Ratings
5% Negative
50 Ratings
50 Ratings
Apr 13, 2026
10
One of the best games i ever played. I loved every minute of it and it was something fresh.
Mar 14, 2026
10
Anything less than 10/10 is a lie.
This is the best game ever developed, especially with the BTS extension.
95
The added level of control that the Civics system gives you is an incredibly useful tool for managing your civilization. [Jan 2006, p.152]
93
An incredibly fun and addictive addition to the Civilization franchise. Civilization IV brings back everything that makes this series great, and adds enough innovation to keep things fresh and approachable for both veteran and newcomer.
92
Now, however, it's been nailed: simultaneous turns, variable game speeds, the ability to join a game on the hop by taking over an AI opponent and game dynamics that leave you despising your best friend. Quite frankly, you needn't buy another game for the entirety of next year - Civ will suffice, and it gets deeper each time you play. [PC Zone]
90
The game sticks to its roots but has dropped the dead leaves and found some new flowers to make a big enough change for it to be inviting to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.
80
Even though stellar work has gone into making the game as accessible as possible, there's no escaping the fact that Civilization games are for Civilization fans. And fans won't be dissapointed with Civilization IV. [Dec 2005, p.96]
Feb 5, 2025
10
Still very good game even to these days, its addictive gameplay is as fun as ever. Now waiting for the latest game in the series.
Jan 25, 2024
7
Stacks of Doom, and long periods of time a new player isn't sure what they should be doing. Kinda understandable.. it's geared mostly towards the fans of Civ 1-3. Also has some pretty cool mods.
Mar 10, 2021
7
It's always cool game to play. From year to year mostly graphics changes but in this case it's good.
Feb 16, 2025
4
Probably the weakest game in the Civ series together with the 2nd. Did not not like the graphics style nor the gameplay.
Jul 25, 2011
4
This game... average at best. Turn-based strategy has never been my favorite, but this game makes it monotonous. The higher levels are ridiculously difficult, and doing the same exact thing over and over is exactly as it sounds: repetitive and boring. Every once in a while I find myself enjoying it, but I can't play it for too much at a time before my eyes start to slip shut.
SummaryFaster-Paced Fun - Gameplay has been streamlined for a tighter, faster, and more compelling experience.Greater Accessibility and Ease of Play - An easy-to-use interface will be immediately familiar to RTS and action game players, and newcomers to the series will be able to jump in and play. Tech Tree - Flexible Tech tree allows players m... Read More
Rated E +10for Everyone +10
