Civilization I, II & III — The Civilizations
In the first three games, civilizations are mostly a matter of name, colour and leader: the Romans, Babylonians, Germans, Egyptians, Americans, Greeks, Indians, Russians, Zulus, French, Aztecs, Chinese, English and Mongols of the original, with more added in each sequel.
How they differ
- Civilization and Civilization II: every civilization plays the same; the leaders' personalities change how the AI behaves.
- Civilization III is the first to give each civilization traits (such as Militaristic, Scientific or Commercial) and a unique unit — the Roman Legionary, the English Man-O-War, the Zulu Impi.
- Conquests raised the count to over thirty civilizations.
Choosing one
In Civilization III, Scientific and Commercial civilizations are forgiving for a peaceful game; Militaristic and Expansionist ones suit an early rush. A unique unit that arrives in the age you plan to fight in is worth more than one that comes too late.