"Play as one of many civilizations in this great game!"

General:
In Civilization II, build an ancient empire in a random world, or the real world itself, conquer other civilizations, build wonders, towns, roads, and railroads, establish trade routes, and make advances in technology that can take you from fighting with clubs, to building spaceships. You can travel across seas and through the air, explore ancient ruins, and make the best of your natural resources.

Graphics (5/10)
The graphics aren't that detailed. There isn't much color difference or the slightest bit of a 3D look. However, there are many different movie sequences. When you build a wonder, you will see a movie sequence of that wonder. The movie sequences make the graphics better, as the normal graphics aren't too hot.

Sound (6/10)
The sound isn't that remarkable as well. There are some nifty sound effects, but that's about it. But that doesn't matter, the other awesome qualities of this game make it worth it.

Controls (8/10)
You can control this game with the mouse and keyboard. Believe me, the controls are extremely easy to master. The only thing that's hard to get down are the individual commands for each unit. So, you don't have to spend too much time learning the controls. Instead, you can start off and start building your civilization.

Challenge (10/10)
You can set the challenge of the computers, so that makes it easy to start out. Then you can explore technologies, and use advances military tactics. You also must build a great government, where you must balance the money you give to science and to luxury, as well as setting a good tax rate.

Game Length (5/10)
The game isn't very long, but it isn't too short either. You can save your game while it is in progress and continue it later, which is a very helpful feature.

Replay Value (10/10)
You could play this game for years. Honest. It'll take you ages to explore all this game's features. The replay value really makes up for the lack of game length.

Gameplay/Fun (9/10)
This game is very fun. With so many features, it's extremely difficult to get bored. There are times, however, where the game progresses a little slowly.

Originality (8/10)
The idea of this game is fairly original. It's ideas overlap with some other turn based strategy games, but the game is unique enough to be worth buying it if you already have another turn based strategy game.

Overall (8/10):
You should buy this game and all of its expansions. Though the expansions aren't as great as they could have been, a bit of cash will pay off over the years you might spend playing it.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 07/09/00, Updated 11/19/01