Strategy gaming at its best! Clear your calendar...
There are so many fascinating details, it would be near impossible to rate all of them in one review. Needless to say, this is one game anybody could fall in love with.
You can pick your starting civ, from ancient Romans led by Caesar to the Americans led by Abe Lincoln. First turn is 4000 B.C. Build a city, fortify it with warriors, send out workers to tend the land and build roads, and search for more prime real estate to settle as your people multiply. The object of course is to dominate the world by any means possible, through war or diplomacy.
Wonders of the world can be built, like the Great Pyramids or the Great Library. Each wonder comes with its own special attributes which add to your city, or sometimes every city.
Technology is a primary concern. Every so often your wisemen will discover a new art, and 6000 years ago, having the alphabet made you an advanced civilization! Eventually more modern sciences come into play, based on how much research you're willing to pay for. Learning how to make gunpowder can turn the tide in a war, but figuring out sanitation can keep your people healthy.
There is also an editor, for making custom scenarios. It's possible to recreate our own history with a map of the Earth and resources placed in the right locales. This is a fun option for trying to create a "utopia".
I highly recommend this game for everyone, but be forewarned: your schedule will be rewritten. This is one addiction they need an 800 number for! * * * *