User Rating: 9.6 | Galactic Civilizations PC
I think Galactic Civilizations is one of the best 4x turn based strategy games published in a very long while. I feel like I'm playing a space version of Sid Meier's Civilization, the first one, updated of course. It's not groundbreaking like the civilization series has been so don't get me wrong. Nor will I compare it to Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri. Galactic Civilizations stands out on its own, although you might not feel that there is anything truly new to the type of gameplay. I believe what Stardock has done,is make a masterpiece for those really wanting to feel like they are running a HUGE Galactic Empire. There are a few flaws, but as far as I'm concerned, they do not detract that much from gameplay. First off, its combat model is kinda weak, because it turns into: He who has the highest upgraded ships and the most of them, wins. That's not saying the battles are not fun, it's just combat is simplified a lot, and there's not much to do after attacking someone besides sit and watch the results. (The only other problem with combat, and this comment is for only 4x veterans, is that there is no ship customization nor can you retrofit older and cheaper parts.) Secondly, which I believe this is the single biggest flaw that GalCiv has, there is NO multiplayer. This game would have been one of the GREATEST GAMES of its type EVER MADE if it had multiplayer. If you play it you'll understand why the lack of multiplayer is such an absolute shame. Whether they will have multiplayer in a later patch or not I'm not sure. But I would suggest to anyone to buy this game just for the chance. But if you can deal with those two flaws, this game has one of the best AI's ever made. The diplomacy is wonderful, the technology is varied and interesting, and everything about the game just screams quality and polish. But keep in mind it's a turn based strategy game so it doesn't need a lot to do a lot. And to that end the graphics are not going to set the bar for anything. They're adequate and as far as I'm concerned wonderful, but some people might not agree. All in all if you're looking for a great single player experience deep in space this is one of the best to be had. BUT if you're looking for a strong strategic space combat game or have to have multiplayer it might be good to go with Master of Orion 3. I own both so I get the best of both worlds. :)
