Civilization
- Designer Francis Tresham
- Publisher Hartland Trefoil Ltd. , ACE Pelit Oy , The Avalon Hill Game Co , Compendium Games , Descartes Editeur
- Illustration Ed Dovey , Charles Kibler , Rodger B. MacGowan , Guillaume Rohmer , Dale Sheaffer , Francis Tresham
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players lead ancient civilizations across a map of the Eastern Mediterranean and Near East from around 8000 B.C. to the rise of Rome. The game combines Area Movement, Tech Trees, and Hand Management to develop cultural, economic, and political progress. Battles occur but are not the main path to victory. Success depends on balancing societal roles like farmers, warriors, and citizens to advance your civilization.
Who Is This Game For?
Civilization is aimed at experienced strategy players and enthusiasts willing to invest around six hours per session. It is not suitable for families with younger children due to complexity and length. Prior experience with complex strategy games is recommended.
How It Works
Players move their units on the board (Area Movement) and compete for control of regions (Area Majority). They manage hands of cards (Hand Management, Set Collection) and research technologies through a Tech Tree, unlocking new abilities. Players balance economic and cultural factors to advance while managing conflicts and resource scarcity.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Francis Tresham, Civilization pioneered the Tech Tree mechanic now common in many games. It won the 1982 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Pre-Twentieth Century Game and the 2018 UK Games Expo Best Board Game (Strategic Style) Judges Award. It is a foundational title in the Civilization game family.
Awards
2018
- 2025 BoardGameGeek Hall of Fame Inductee — Nominated
- 1982 Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-Twentieth Century Game — Winner
Pro
- Pioneered the Tech Tree mechanic
- High strategic depth with diverse mechanics
- Supports up to 7 players fostering interaction
- Multiple prestigious awards
Contra
- Very long playtime around six hours
- High complexity, suited for experienced players
- Not suitable for younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the development of ancient civilizations in the Eastern Mediterranean and Near East from roughly 8000 B.C. to the rise of Rome in the 3rd century B.C.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the mechanics and focus on planning your technological development carefully.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Civilization is designed for 2 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 360 minutes, roughly six hours, including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy games and patience for longer sessions are recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Civilization is recognized as the first game to use a Tech Tree, combining strategic depth with historical simulation.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is generally not suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Tech Trees / Tech Tracks mechanic is the game's defining and influential feature.
Fazit
Civilization is a classic blending strategic depth with historical simulation. Recommended for players with time and interest in complex civilization games.
