Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete Reviews

I'm far too young for this... Still respect the classics.

Review of Sid Meier's Civilization III Complete Sid Meier's Civilization III Complete, despite its esteemed reputation in the realm of turn-based strategy games, ultimately left me feeling underwhelmed due to several notable shortcomings. The game's allure lies in its rich historical context and the intricate strategic layers it offers, but detracting factors can drag the experience down, particularly for players seeking a more dynamic gameplay experience. One of the most glaring issues is the limited options available for creating a random map game. In a genre that thrives on variety and unpredictability, it is disappointing to find such constraints in Civilizations III. The choices for map settings and configurations are often restrictive, leading to repeated gameplay scenarios that can quickly feel stale. This lack of customization feels particularly egregious when compared to more modern entries in the franchise, which offer a plethora of options for creating unique and varied gameplay experiences. Additionally, the pace of the game can be excruciatingly slow. While I appreciate the depth of strategy required to plot out my civilization's growth, the sluggish nature of gameplay often renders the experience tedious rather than thrilling. Turns can drag on, especially in the later stages of the game, making it difficult to maintain engagement. A game that can take several hours to play, feels more like a chore than an exciting challenge. Given how many strategic possibilities exist, it is frustrating that the pacing can detract from what should be an exhilarating experience. Perhaps one of the most restricting elements of Civilization III is the imposed historical timeline that starts with the Ancient Times. While this may be characteristic of the franchise, it can feel confining, as players are thrust into a slow buildup that limits immediate strategic decision-making. The requirement to navigate through various ages before reaching more advanced technologies can be disillusioning, especially for those who would prefer to dive into the meat of the gameplay without the protracted wait. In conclusion, while Sid Meier’s Civilization III Complete has its merits and offers a deep foundation of strategy and lore, the restrictive options for random map games, the slow and often tedious pacing, and the limitation of starting in Ancient Times hinder the overall enjoyment. For players accustomed to the flexibility and speed of newer titles, returning to this classic may prove to be more of a lesson in patience than a rewarding strategy experience. Civilization III certainly has its fans, but it might leave others yearning for more expansive gameplay options that truly allow the heart of strategy to shine.

A Timeless Classic That Still Shines Bright At the dawn of the new millennium, games were a different experience. Back then, finding a truly good game felt rare — a hidden gem in a sea of mediocrity. Among the few that stood out were Civilization and Heroes of Might and Magic III. These titles didn’t just entertain; they left a mark. That’s why, even 25 years later, they’re considered timeless classics — still among the greatest games ever made. With the release of a new Civilization and the upcoming Heroes: Olden Era, I can't help but feel a rush of nostalgia. This isn’t just about reliving childhood memories — it’s about appreciating games that respect your time and intelligence. Civilization has always required thought, strategy, and foresight — something that’s sadly missing from many modern titles. Whether it’s Civilization III or any of the later entries, each one carries the same core values: joy, excitement, and the kind of immersive fun that makes hours feel like minutes. You really do start to understand Einstein’s theory of relativity when you're deep in a session, planning your next move, expanding your empire, and suddenly realizing the sun has set. I wholeheartedly recommend Civilization — to both veterans and new players alike. It’s more than a game. It’s an experience.

Лучшая стратегия всех времен и народов! Игра идеальна и продуманна, вариантов развития событий - бесконечное множество.. Играю в нее от момента выхода и по сей день, а это, на минуточку, 24 года чистой эйфории! На сегодняшний день есть множество модов исправляющих ошибки, упрощающих геймплей и облегчающих рутинные моменты. Плюс ко всему - в наличии весьма увлекательные сценарии от фанатов, так что крайне настоятельно рекомендую хотя бы ознакомится с этим произведением искусства! Удачи!

old but ok. i like Alpha Centauri and CIV 2 more. Bring back CIV 2 and Test of Time!

It's very unique and so far, unmatchable.

A good strategy game, pretty easy to play, AI cheats even when you have set it to easiest play.

Its good for an old game, if you like the nostalgic games it is the one you want.

Used to play this with my dad as a kid so it has a soft spot in my heart but it doesn't hold up. Its not designed or ported to run properly on newer hardware and the resolution is fucked so I can't recommend it. If someone made an actual more functional port though id have to reconsider.

Lots of details and opportunities to apply imagination. Great game for history enthusiasts, much more engaging and interactive than a lot of contemporary mobile-based "strategy" games.