Civilization 4

Video games are constantly becoming more and more visceral: with better eye-candy and more fluid motion, the necessity of complex play is disappearing. Civilization 4, however, is content to plod on turn by addicting turn. For depth and complexity, Civ 4 is unrivaled, and marathon gaming sessions serve as reminders that Rome was not built in a day.

Civilization 4 is a nostalgic computer gamer's dream, but many console players may find it too tedious. A single game of Civ 4 takes many (over 10) hours. Building a nation from 4000 B.C. to the present is slow, thoughtful work. The player assumes the role of a great leader like Napoleon or George Washington as they drive their respective nations. By discovering technologies, choosing religions, civics, forms of government and conducting diplomacy with neighbors, each civilization prepares for an eventual bid for world domination.

There are plenty of interesting changes in Civilization 4. The most significant is the creation of borders around your nation. If another nation sends troops within your borders, war is instantly declared.

The birth of great people also adds a new facet to the game. Great people like Moses or Thomas Edison play an important role in building new World Wonders, discovering technologies and initiating golden ages.

Unfortunately, as the game rolls on, it grinds to a near halt. Combat can be frustrating because the defender of a city has a massive advantage. Late in the game, with far too many decisions to make, Civ 4's endearing depth can simply become too slow and too complicated.