Galactic Civilizations IV
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
PvP
Online PvP
Co-op
Online Co-op
Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Steam Achievements
Steam Workshop
Adjustable Text Size
Camera Comfort
Custom Volume Controls
Adjustable Difficulty
Playable without Timed Input
Save Anytime
Stereo Sound
Surround Sound
Steam Cloud
Family Sharing

Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pioneer new technologies.

Developers: Stardock Entertainment
Publishers: Stardock Entertainment
Release Date: Oct 19, 2023
Price (USD): $39.99
Current Players: 283

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Mostly Positive(74%)
AlienGPT feature
graphic improvements
addictive quality
AI strategy
customization options
core world system
ship design
AI-generated content
technical issues
UI navigation
lack of innovation
repetitive events
overpriced DLCs
The general sentiment around Galactic Civilizations IV is a blend of appreciation for its strategy depth and customization with significant quality and bug issues that detract from the experience. Players enjoy the addictiveness and potential for creativity in building civilizations, yet are frustrated by technical problems, a clunky UI, and lack of major innovations compared to previous entries. Some find value in the innovative features like AlienGPT, while others believe the game has not progressed sufficiently beyond Galactic Civilizations III.

Positive Points

  • The game offers a deep and rewarding 4X strategy experience with a vast and customizable galaxy.
  • The AlienGPT feature for creating custom civilizations is praised for adding creativity and replayability.
  • The graphics and UI improvements have been well-received, making the game more user-friendly.
  • The game maintains the 'one more turn' addictive quality that keeps players engaged for long hours.
  • The AI is considered one of the best in the 4X genre, offering complex and nuanced diplomatic interactions.
  • Negative Points

  • The game is criticized for technical issues, including crashes, bugs, and poor multiplayer synchronization.
  • Many players find the UI clunky and not intuitive, with cumbersome menu navigation.
  • There are complaints about a lack of significant innovation and that it feels like GC3 with some updates.
  • Critics mention the game feels repetitive with the same events occurring frequently.
  • DLCs are seen as overpriced, with some players feeling essential features are locked behind paywalls.
  • Mixed Points

  • The core and colony world system receives mixed reviews; some find it great for reducing micromanagement, while others feel it lacks depth.
  • Ship design and combat mechanics are divisive, with some appreciating the customization, but others finding it clunky and unimpactful.
  • The technique of using AI-generated art and content has drawn both praise for creativity and criticism for inconsistency.
  • Common Themes

  • Comparison to previous Galactic Civilizations titles and other 4X games like Stellaris.
  • The game's addictive nature and time-consuming gameplay are commonly mentioned.
  • Both the positive and negative experiences heavily mention the customization and complexity of the game.
  • The need for further updates and patches to address bugs and improve features reflects a common sentiment.
  • Updated 5/21/2025, 12:00:57 AM UTC