Sid Meier’s Civilization VI Review PS4

I had migrated to console many years ago and while I have no regrets, I do miss the ability to play strategy games. Thanks to Sid Meier Civilization VI, I now have that option again. It isn’t a real-time game but rather a turn-based system. I will admit this took some getting used to. Think of it like chess but with way better graphics and incredibly in-depth. Once you grasp the fundamental control mechanisms of the game, the fun really begins. Slowly you can shape your civilization in a glorious empire. You can either be a total warmonger or a peaceful leader. Personally I like the monger approach… (probably why my mother advised against a career in politics )

Graphics

The game has very relaxed, larger than life aesthetics feel. Its style is very different from other strategy games that I have played. Civilization trades realism for a more visually fun approach. I liked that a lot as it offset the more mature mechanics and ideology of the game with softer visuals. This will entice the younger players to try the game out. The style is very much arcade in nature and ironically steers more in the console direction than its PC heritage.

Gameplay

The gameplay isn’t hard, but due to its turn-based approach can feel very different from other games and takes a while to sync. This is a thinking game, and the idea is to think carefully about what to do. It isn’t just about the current move but rather 5 moves down. Like I mentioned earlier, I very much like chess. The lack of a keyboard and mouse does hinder one but that is mostly down to us being conditioned. Once you adapt it does get a bit easier. I suppose if this was real-time it would have been more cumbersome due to one needing to have quicker reaction times.

Building your empire can take time, and no it won’t be easy. There will be numerous obstacles in your way like natural disasters and poor resources. This mirrors the real world in every way. The games that have played before focused on resources and tactical battles. The environment had little impact on the game save for resources and pathways. This is where Civilization stands apart. While it does not ignore the always exciting battle portion, it instead plays it off differently. It also brings to light more inner workings of what happens behind an empire’s curtain. There are also many more ages to progress through and this adds more dimension especially when you consider the way the technology tree needs to grow.

Verdict

While it took a bit of time, I found myself drawn to this game. I have always had a soft spot for strategy games as I believe there is an educational element to it. It is very much a thinking game, and requires much pondering and plotting to effectively forge your way forward. I think it makes for a great weekday game as it keeps your mind sharp. It is easy to pick up where you left off and can even be played in short spells. Consoles need more games like this. It also a bonus it comes with expansions, Rise and Fall and Gathering Storms. This makes it a great value for money, game as well.