Sid Meier's Civilization V

Sid Meier's Civilization V is a turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games. Released on September 21, 2010, for Windows, the game was later made available for macOS on November 23, 2010, and for Linux on June 10, 2014. The game was designed by Jon Shafer, Ed Beach, and Scott Lewis, with Sid Meier serving as the director of creative development. The development aimed to innovate the series while retaining its core strategic depth.

In Civilization V, players lead a civilization from the ancient era into the future, aiming to achieve one of several victory conditions, such as military conquest, scientific advancement, cultural influence, or diplomatic alliances. The game introduced several significant changes to the series, including the use of hexagonal tiles instead of the traditional square grid, a single-unit-per-tile combat system, and the addition of city-states as neutral entities that could be influenced or conquered. These changes were designed to make the game more accessible and to encourage strategic depth in both military and diplomatic interactions.

Promotion for Civilization V included showcasing the game at various gaming conventions and leveraging digital platforms like Steam and GOG for distribution. The game's innovative features, such as the new combat system and the introduction of city-states, were highlighted in promotional materials to attract both veteran fans and newcomers to the series. The game's availability on multiple platforms also expanded its reach to a broader audience.

Upon release, Civilization V received generally positive reviews from critics and players alike. The game's innovative mechanics, such as the hexagonal grid and single-unit-per-tile combat, were praised for refreshing the series. However, some players expressed concerns over the game's AI behavior and the initial lack of certain features that were present in previous installments. Despite these criticisms, the game's depth and replayability were widely acknowledged, contributing to its success.

The game's expansion packs, Gods & Kings and Brave New World, introduced additional content and features that further enhanced the game's depth. Gods & Kings, released in June 2012, reintroduced religion and espionage mechanics, while Brave New World, released in July 2013, added new civilizations, trade routes, and diplomatic systems. These expansions were well-received and contributed to the game's lasting appeal.

Civilization V has had a lasting impact on the strategy genre. It set a new standard for turn-based strategy games with its innovative mechanics and depth. The game's success paved the way for its successor, Civilization VI, which built upon the foundation laid by Civilization V. The game's legacy continues to influence the design of strategy games, and it remains a beloved title among fans of the genre.