Mastering Civilization IV – Starting the Game - Part II – Selecting a Map (B)

It is widely known and recognized that Sid Meier's Civilization had become THE computer game when it was introduced. It was first real turn-based strategy ever. The latest PC playable version of Civilization is "Civilization IV", launched in October 2005. For a computer game 3 years is an eternity - but not for Civilization series game – it is very playable and enjoyable today. With game victory options described in “Civilization IV – Part I” article, this one continues the review of the pre-game selections started in "Civilization VI - Part II" – choosing the map, and the consequences of the choice – the relevant strategy of playing.

This map will have large (impassable) ice terrain areas both on top (north) and bottom (south) end of the map. The habitable lands occur only near the equator. The climate is predefined (temperate), but you can choose sea level (low, medium, high) and landmass type (wide continents, narrow continents, islands, small islands).

This option will result in a map with a large sea in the middle, with all the civilizations starting positions around it. It is advisable to plan your expansion first of all along the coast. Cover as much area as possible and only once you have encountered your rivals turn away from the sea – as those regions are close you and are unlikely to be taken by others. The Open Border agreements are very important on this map as you will probably border 2-3 opponents.

This will bring a world with no ocean – but with numerous lakes spread across the land mass. The fleet is not much of a use here – as you will probably find your ships sailing in very limited territory, enclosed by land.

As the name suggests, there are many desert and oasis squares on this map – especially in the center. It is relatively easy to connect you cities, positioning them along rivers – but remember, many resources are away from those rivers. Large part of the resources is situated in the north, but civilization density is a serious problem is that area. Since almost no water tiles exist in this map, sea-oriented technologies are not very important – but beware, they can be the key to some vital civilization advances in the future…