[This is being written with all the expansions/DLC included in mind]

Civilization V is probably the greatest strategy game I've ever played with how utterly addicting it is. There's a "Time Played" section down there, and yeah, I see it. But I'm not going to fill it in, because it's a bit embarrassing. I played this game so much in the past because I fell into that "one more turn" syndrome. Civlization V's systems have a learning curve, but I wouldn't say it's a steep one - but it's not easy to get a hang of either, I'll admit. But once you do get a hang of Civ V, you can get enraptured by it. There's a simplistic joy in it. The systems are just the right amount of engaging without being too overly in-depth like some other games in the series (cough, Civ VI, cough).

Civ V also has a plethora of mods on the Steam workshop. A thriving modding community has extending Civilization V's lifespan so much that various mods are even considered sub-sections/total conversions of the game itself. The No Quitter's mod, Anno Domini, Gaia's mod pack, JFD's mechanic mods, etc. Leaders and Civilizations missing from the game probably have a mod available out there by now! CPU vs CPU games are quite popular as well, and I probably inflated my hours with them.

I just can't gush enough about how good Civ V is. Sometimes less is more when it comes to game mechanics, and Civ is a staple of that in the strategy genre.

Score: 97

Civilization V is a grand-strategy game with high variation in strategies and tech available to each of the countries. Very enjoyable with or without a party for people who enjoy turn based strategy with opportunities for mass variation in how you spec your tech tree to how you approach diplomacy with other countries. My major gripe is the mostly linear progression in the army building and that sessions can take a large amount of time in one sitting.

Highly recommended regardless due to its completely enjoyable experience.