Mastering Civilization IV – Starting the Game - Part VII – Game Speed

Sid Meier's Civilization was THE computer game when it was introduced in 1994 and was first real turn-based strategy ever. The latest PC playable version of Civilization is "Civilization IV", launched in October 2005.

3 years is an eternity for a computer game- but not for Civilization series game – even today it is a very playable and enjoyable game. With game victory options described in this article, and most the pre-game selections (choosing the map, the climate and sea level, World size, Difficulty Levels) covered, we conclude our overview discussing various game speed options.

Along with the game level, you have to choose “Game Speed”. Game Speed determines how many turns it takes to construct units, buildings and wonders, how many it takes to research technologies, build improvements and so forth. These settings let you experience the full epic sweep of time inherent in Civilization IV while allowing you to customize the game based on how much time you have available and other preferences. There are three game speeds to choose from:

• Epic
• Normal
• Quick

Of course, Game Speed does not have any effect upon the amount of time you have to complete a turn – you always have as much time as you want in a single-player game.

Every game speed has it's unique advantages and disadvantages that should be exploited to win the game.

• Epic: It takes a longer number of turns to construct, research, and improve. The game will be longer and winning by points is a possibility. Keep track of your opponents and try to stay ahead. The conquest on this level is easier as well - especially on larger maps.

• Normal: It takes an average number of turns to construct, research, and improve. This game speed is recommended for Civilizatoin IV newcomers – even if you have played the previous Civ’s.

• Quick: It takes fewer turns to construct, research, and improve. At this level you can (and should) reach space in early 20th century at the latest - if you think about winning of course...

This article concludes the pre-game choices overview of Civilization IV. The only thing that is left before starting the game is to pick your civilization. But that is a serious choice as well - which deserves a separate series of articles.