Sid Meier's Civilization II

The Good
A brilliant example of quality over quantity. Despite its dated looks it still plays superbly and has to be THE definitive strategy game. A real test of mental skill over a superb concept makes for a classic. It constantly draws me back even now for another go...

The Bad
The graphic aren't stunning but then you want to "PLAY" a game don't you?

The Bottom Line
Any game where you can start playing at 10pm then suddenly look up and find that its daylight has to be something special.

The Good
The first Civilization was already a great game. The second is better in part because of a detectable upgrade in sound and graphics. More importantly, the game is richer as you have more units, technology, wonders, etc to play around with. Also, the introduction of damage bars (as opposed to an all or nothing combat resolution system) goes a long way in alleviating any residual fears from Civ I where you have found yourself exclaiming in surprise, "That cheezy phalanx sunk my BATTLESHIP!!!"

So relax, don't have your battleships run away from those spear throwing punks.

The Bad
Some of the same problems as the first. The AI didn't seemed to have improved. With more unit wonders and unit types, it is now easier to beat the game. Consequently, the Emporer level in Civ I is harder than the Deity level in Civ II. So if you are looking for a greater strategic challenge from Civ II, it will disappoint.

The Bottom Line
Best game of the genre I've ever played...I never quite appreciated Fundamentalism to its full extent until Civ II.

The Good

This game is great for someone without access to a PC, who has a deep longing to try out the Civilization series. It captures the basic gameplay elements of the PC version well, and may provide entertainment to die-hard strategy fans.

The Bad

Unfortunately, the Sony Playstation is not a PC, and this game does not translate well to a console system. The interface is clunky and awkward, with all interactions performed through the control pad. The graphics leave a lot to be desired. The Playstation is certainly capable of making things look nicer than this. The real killer of this game however, is the unbearably long amount of wait time between turns. Late in the game, on a large map with 5 opponents, you can find yourself sitting idle for literally minutes on end, while the opponent AI manages its empires.

The Bottom Line

'Civilization II' for the Playstation is not going to make very many people happy. Only fans of the Civ series who don't have access to a computer should try this one. And really, what fans of the Civ series don't have access to a computer?