Sid Meier’s Civilization V

The latest in Sid Meier’s hugely popular series of civilization-controlling sims is beautiful, colorful, and visually comprehensible. Players spend turn after turn shepherding their civilizations from the Bronze Age to the Modern Era and beyond. It’s easy to pick up and incredibly hard to put down. Civilization 5 will definitely appeal to Civ veterans, but the game’s accessible presentation also makes it a good gift for less experienced gamers. If you know someone who loves engrossing, thoroughly historical games or is more interested in the rise and fall of Earth’s great powers, this game is for them.