I've never played a Civ game - where do I start?

All the entries have pretty polarizing reviews it seems like. Should I just start with the latest (6)? I don't have anything to compare it to obviously so I wouldn't be judging it against 4/5. Thoughts for a true newcomer?

As someone who loves the series I suggest you start with 6, especially for a beginner. If ypu get good at 6 you can still go back to the older entries (with DLC) or maybe there will be some major DLC for 6 by then

6. Enjoy!

Either 5 "complete edition" or 6.

5 complete edition

I would suggest 6 as well, it's still $60 though.

Really Civ 4 or 5 would be fun as well, but the mechanics have changed a bit since then - for the better IMO.

Honestly, start with the most recent (Civ 6). I've been play the series for quite some time now and I think it is the best. Might not be my favorite, but it is the best.

But if you want the truth, you can jump in and have a good time with Civ 4, 5, or 6.

Hell if you want sci-fi, Civ: Beyond Earth would even be a good entry into the franchise (it's not that it's a bad game, it's just not the best in the series).

My personal favorite is Alpha Centauri, but it is a bit dated by now.

Just bought six, thanks everyone!

As a side note - I bought a physical copy - can I get that into my Steam library?

If it's activated through Steam then it's a Steam game.

Look on the box and it should have a Steam logo.