FreeCiv – Civilization a’hoy!

After my previous post regarding FreeCol – a Colonization type of game, I recieved a few upset emails from people asking why I didn’t mention FreeCiv. I honestly didn’t know about FreeCiv until people told me about it, though after testing it a bit, I must say it keeps true to the old Civilization spirit. Civilization is yet another old game from Sid Meier. This is at least a nice free alternative to the old game; still under development though I can’t say I experienced much bugs while I tested it.

I like the idea that it can also be scripted (using LUA) and the port itself is written in C. Of course as with all open-source software, this too comes with complete source code if you want to break your neck trying to get a grip on C – I tried countless times, but so far given up getting the pointers in it. Other features (in general) are as follows:

• Generally comparable with Civilization I & II.
• Up to 30 players!
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer-controlled players.
• Internet & LAN multiplayer (TCP/IP).
• Support for a great number of platforms see Requirements.
• Premade maps & scenarios!
• More than 50 playable units and far beyond 100 nations.
• Modpack support!
• Internationalization (i18n): Translations for 29 languages available.

Links:

• FreeCiv – Download it today
• Sid Meier – the mastermind himself