According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of the word 'complete' (adj) is “1 a : having all necessary parts, elements, or steps.” With Sid Meier’s Civilization IV: The Complete Edition, there is indeed truth in advertising.

This complete edition includes the original Civilization IV, the two expansion packs Warlords and Beyond the Sword, and Colonization, which is an offshoot of Civilization IV, rather than an expansion. As of today, these are all the released games of Civilization IV. Thus, the title reflects the literal meaning of the word complete, but what about the spirit of the word? I categorically aver that this is indeed a “complete” edition, in that it absolutely satisfies every requirement a strategy fan may desire.

It is wonderful that a title released four years ago is still as fresh today as when it was released in 2005. This speaks to the meticulous and strong design of the core game engine, both in a graphical sense and actual gameplay sense. Each expansion not only enhances the original, but also adds enough new material so as to almost be almost considered stand-alone products.

Civilization IV is a strategy player’s dream. It is huge, deep and engrossing. It can be played over and over again for a new experience each time. Will it be diplomacy, war or technology that will advance your civilization ahead of all others? Within these long-range goals, there are myriads of choices for units, technical research branches, and settlement placements.

Warlords adds a Great General Unit that endows extra “oomph” to the military units, and includes new scenarios, units, civilizations, wonders, and also new leader traits. While many of these new items focus on the military aspect of the original, they are still welcome additions no matter what path to future greatness the player may choose.

With Beyond the Sword, players have many new choices for their middle and end games. The focus is on espionage and commercialism. There are 11 new scenarios, new random events, and an Advanced Start option for the beginning of the game.

And, finally, Colonization is offered. This is actually a remake of the original Colonization, which is different from Civilization. This remake utilizes the Civilization IV engine, but is a unique game. There are no tech trees, and the setting is the colonization of the new world by European powers.

This entire offering is on one DVD, rather than four separate CDs. Even if one already has all the games, it would be beneficial to own this edition just to eliminate the boxes and CDs taking up space. The game is currently offered for $50, which is a bargain for people who don’t already have these games. This price may seem high for those who already have the games, but the convenience of one game may be worth it.

I love these games, but with going back to college and then going back to work, I haven’t had the time to play much. However, life is finally settling down some, and I plan on getting back to some of my favorites, like Civ IV, Heroes V, and Rock Band. If for some strange reason you don’t own Civilization IV, I urge you fervently to purchase this complete edition immediately; every strategy fan should own a copy of Civ IV.

Gameplay: 10
Almost perfect gameplay and a huge gaming universe.

Graphics: 9.0
Wonderful appearance, even now, four years later.

Sound: 9.0
The musical score is thrilling!

Difficulty: Medium/Hard
The sheer amount of information and choices can be overwhelming.

Concept: 9.0
Exceptional execution.

Multiplayer: 9.0

Overall: 9.6
I gave the same rating I gave the original Civilization IV, even though I rated the subsequent expansions slightly lower. This package is the ultimate Civ experience and is just a little short of perfect.