In Episode 21 of the Critical Moves Podcast, hosts Joe, Adam, and Tim dive into a world of strategy games that serve as alternatives to Civilization 7. With Civ VII failing to live up to expectations for many, the team explores a variety of options, from city-building and grand strategy to turn-based empire management. Whether you’re a veteran of the 4X genre or just looking for something fresh, this episode offers solid recommendations for every type of strategy enthusiast.
City-Building Alternatives
For fans of the city-building aspects of Civilization, the hosts recommend Cities: Skylines for its realistic simulation of urban planning. For a lighter tone, Tropico offers a unique charm with humor and life-simulation elements. Meanwhile, Anno 1800 brings a deep economic simulation, with a bit of real-time stress for those who enjoy managing trade routes and island development.
Historical and Grand Strategy Games
Looking for something to scratch the historical strategy itch? Empire Earth allows players to guide their civilization from the Stone Age to the future, while Crusader Kings III, Europa Universalis IV, and Victoria 3 provide detailed grand strategy experiences with complex political, economic, and military systems. Stellaris is also recommended for those who enjoy sci-fi strategy games.
Turn-Based Empire Management
For turn-based empire management fans, Total War games provide historical and fantasy experiences, depending on your preferred period. Age of Wonders 4 also stands out with unique society-building mechanics and randomized events. Sci-fi fans can dive into Endless Space 2, a simpler alternative to Civilization that offers a sleek interface and engaging mechanics.
Hidden Gems and Niche Picks
The team discusses a few lesser-known titles worth checking out. Shadow Empire, a complex 4X game, simulates post-apocalyptic empire-building. SpellForce: Conquest of Eo blends 4X mechanics with hero-focused gameplay, while Old World offers a condensed version of Civilization with a focus on diplomacy and empire management.
Civ Clones: Millennia and Humankind
The hosts also take a look at Humankind, which offers players the ability to switch civilizations throughout the game. While it has its fans, Joe and Tim feel it lacks the staying power of Civilization. Millennia also takes a crack at the Civ formula, introducing magical and post-apocalyptic eras, but its visuals and polish leave much to be desired.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
For those seeking even more strategy options, the episode wraps up with recommendations like Galactic Civilizations 4, a space-themed 4X game, and Spore, which takes players from single-celled organisms to spacefaring civilizations. Terra Invicta is also highlighted as a deep dive into managing Earth's factions in the face of an alien invasion.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Or search Critical Moves Podcast on your preferred podcast platform.
City-Building AlternativesFor fans of the city-building aspects of Civilization, the hosts recommend Cities: Skylines for its realistic simulation of urban planning. For a lighter tone, Tropico offers a unique charm with humor and life-simulation elements. Meanwhile, Anno 1800 brings a deep economic simulation, with a bit of real-time stress for those who enjoy managing trade routes and island development.
Historical and Grand Strategy GamesLooking for something to scratch the historical strategy itch? Empire Earth allows players to guide their civilization from the Stone Age to the future, while Crusader Kings III, Europa Universalis IV, and Victoria 3 provide detailed grand strategy experiences with complex political, economic, and military systems. Stellaris is also recommended for those who enjoy sci-fi strategy games.
Turn-Based Empire ManagementFor turn-based empire management fans, Total War games provide historical and fantasy experiences, depending on your preferred period. Age of Wonders 4 also stands out with unique society-building mechanics and randomized events. Sci-fi fans can dive into Endless Space 2, a simpler alternative to Civilization that offers a sleek interface and engaging mechanics.
Hidden Gems and Niche PicksThe team discusses a few lesser-known titles worth checking out. Shadow Empire, a complex 4X game, simulates post-apocalyptic empire-building. SpellForce: Conquest of Eo blends 4X mechanics with hero-focused gameplay, while Old World offers a condensed version of Civilization with a focus on diplomacy and empire management.
Civ Clones: Millennia and HumankindThe hosts also take a look at Humankind, which offers players the ability to switch civilizations throughout the game. While it has its fans, Joe and Tim feel it lacks the staying power of Civilization. Millennia also takes a crack at the Civ formula, introducing magical and post-apocalyptic eras, but its visuals and polish leave much to be desired.
Final Thoughts and RecommendationsFor those seeking even more strategy options, the episode wraps up with recommendations like Galactic Civilizations 4, a space-themed 4X game, and Spore, which takes players from single-celled organisms to spacefaring civilizations. Terra Invicta is also highlighted as a deep dive into managing Earth's factions in the face of an alien invasion.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Or search Critical Moves Podcast on your preferred podcast platform.