Another excellent Civ
Many hours later it grew on me and i can say that i like it.
I absolutely love the new combat though and i think it was the biggest and best change in this 5th iteration. Gone are the days of the "stack of doom" where you could simply stack as many combat units in one square as your heart desired, then proceed to steamroll everything in your path (except maybe an equally large opposing stack).
Now you can only have one combat unit per "hex" (they can still share a hex with non combat units) and this makes the game infinitely more strategical because you have to plan the best arrangement in an offensive or defensive maneuver. Also, ranged units utilize their "range" much more effectively, adding to the element of strategy in the decision of how best to place units.
Cities now have the ability to defend themselves without a military unit present. When an opposing unit gets within the cities defensive radius you get a message saying as much, and an aiming sight icon pops up over the city. You can use this and fire the first volley at the opposing force. I thought this was a nice touch because it's one more element to make conquering cities a bit more risky than in the past.
Did i mention "hexes" earlier? Yes, the new Civ uses a hex based movement system rather than the old square one.
Personally i didn't notice hardly any difference in combat movement. It wasn't enough difference in itself to add or detract much in the strategy of moving units around. However, couple this with the one combat unit per square and it's a great new addition. I did notice the visual environments being a bit more smoothed out because of the hexagonal based terrain.
Another new major change is the addition of "City States".
I wasn't sure about the usefulness or effectiveness of these independent States until i played a game many hours through.
These also add a new strategic element because you can befriend, or conquer these as you desire.
I found that befriending, giving a monetary gift every so often, and sometimes doing quests for these City States to be of great value because while you are in good standing with them they share resources and give you military units. You can lose your status with these States after a length of time so you must decide whether or not the price you have to pay is worth their friendship.
Also, they can and do go to war with one another so you might be torn between two City states in close proximity to your territory, as both may ask you to defeat the other.
Since i've babbled on about combat and strategy i'll keep the comments short on the other stuff.
Influence is more difficult to generate than in past games and i like that. Tech trees are now available to add "spice" to your overall nation building. Graphics are simply the best in the series yet.
Overall conclusion? This game rocks and if you are a Civ fan you will be rewarded for your patience.
There are enough new elements in this game to please most every Civ fan and despite it's "newbie friendly" feel the game remains true to the franchise while adding some great new elements (did i mention i LOVE the new combat?).
I love it so far and i'm sure i'll write a follow up after just.......one.....more........turn!