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When we first heard that Aspyr was releasing Civilization III: Complete, a single-disc version of the game and available expansion packs, our reaction was mixed. We were excited to dive back into Civilization III, one of the best, if not the best, turn-based strategy games for the Mac. On the other hand, we wondered how much value the expansion packs would actually bring the now-four year old game—especially with Aspyr's planned release of Civilization IV later in the year. Would it be worth the investment of time and money? Answer: Oh yeah.
For those unfamiliar, Civilization III is a game where you assume control of a civilization's development throughout human history. You expand your territory by building settlers and battling with rivals, all the while advancing your nation's profile by taking advantage of natural resources, altering the landscape, building public works and constructing great wonders (like the pyramids).
Fans of Civilization III will be able to jump right in to Civilization III: Complete, as the only thing that is changed from the original is the level of detail and increased options. There are 15 new civilizations, which means new specific units like the Scandinavian Beserkir warriors. There are two new attributes, and more government types. There are even more great wonders to build with a new commerce implication; many can become tourist attractions, increasing your nation's revenue. There are new diplomacy options, and an enhanced scenario editor for better-customized challenges. If customizing is not your bag, there are 12 scenarios to undertake in the expansion Conquests! option. New levels of difficulty mean game play is almost infinite, and new graphic elements are appreciated. The game's Achilles' Heel, is its artificial intelligence (AI), which is at times, frustratingly bad (spearmen defeat elite Marines, etc.). If this was an occasional bug we'd understand, however it seems to be a frequent occurrence.
All in all though, Civilization III: Complete is a worthy investment and it's more than enough to tide us over until Civilization IV's release.
–AMY R. WOOD
Civilization III: Complete: 
Aspyr | www.aspyr.com | 512-708-8100 | $50
Pros: New civilizations, units and wonders are entertaining, unit movement improved, city management enhanced.
Cons: Puzzling AI breeds frustration, multiplayer is Mac to Mac only via GameRanger.
Requires: OS 10.3.9 or higher, PowerPC G4/G5, 500MHz or faster, 2GB free hard disk space, 256MB RAM
macHOME recommends: 500MB RAM, pot of coffee
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