Termalagon

Although it had a solid foundation on release it was basic and lacking new ideas. However since September 2023 with the supernova update (steam release), content has doubled and it's great to the series back on its feet again. The supernova update brings "AlienGPT" which can generate a civilization for you, it's a fun tool to play with. Also the update brings new civilizations and lore (I won't spoil). Supernova adds a stronger research tree, better ship designer, policies, ideologies and leaders. Now about the base game, the planetary building system is an enjoyable puzzle. Diplomacy options are extensive. Combat is slacking off a bit in innovation, but it's solid. You can win anyway and do what you like as this is a sandbox game, but i'd like to see an economic victory. The graphics in this game are gorgeous, even with a budget setup. Unfortunately this game does have cons, they include: A lousy effort on maintaining multiplayer, an uninspiring campaign mode, mostly boring in game missions and events, also players complain about lots of bugs but i've only ever ran into a few. In conclusion galactic civilizations IV offers extensive customisation, fun mechanics, easy to learn gameplay and a classic turn based strategy experience. Lastly (I promise) the community is passionate about the game and loves to help, they have a website where you can find forums, they're active on there steam page and have a thriving discord server.