Sid Meier's Civilization IVfor Windows

Establish yourself in the bronze age and start researching new technologies and advancements. You’ll either become the world’s next superpower or be blown to smithereens by your enemies.

Choose peace or force to rule

Released by Firaxis, Sid Meier’s Civilization IV is one of the best turn-based strategy games ever made, even outshining its sequels.

As the name implies, Civilization IV is the fourth installment in this beloved and well-known Sid Meier’s franchise. However, there are a lot of elements that set this iteration apart from previous and later installments.

You can choose one of 18 different civilizations to start with, each with their own starting skill-trees. As you advance through the different technological ages, you’ll also follow your chosen nation’s unique storyline as you fight for global superiority.

Your race to victory doesn’t need to be violent. While you can use war and technology to conquer your enemies, you can also use diplomacy, research, and world wonders to garner your competitors’ admiration and submission. You can also compete with friends in multiplayer mode.

The gameplay is very realistic without the seriousness of Civilization 5. You can also increase the replay value of the game by getting one of the expansion add-ons, which grants additional civs, technology trees, campaigns, and world leaders.

Where can you run this program?

Civ 4 has low system requirements. You need Windows 2000/XP to run it on PC, but it will also run on Windows 10 with the latest patches.

Is there a better alternative?

No. In fact, Civilization IV outshines both Civ five and six. With its Colonization and Beyond the Sword add-ons and multiplayer, it’s likely that this will remain one of the most popular turn-based games.

Our take

Sid Meier’s Civilization IV is one of the best titles in this series, even without cheats, mods, or add-ons. You’ll constantly crave just one more turn as you race from the bronze age to space.

Should you download it?

Yes. Its active community, creative mods, base game features, and add-ons make it a must-have for fans of turn-based strategy games.