World domination comes to those who wait. As do other good things, like the console adaptation of Sid Meier’s turn-based Civilization series, aptly titled Civilization Revolution, as the latest offering departs from its PC-focused predecessor in two significant ways. First it’s quicker. Whereas a multiplayer round of Civilization IV could take eight, 12, even upwards of 20 hours before it reached a resolution, a match in Revolution only takes two or three. But that doesn’t mean the game’s been stripped of its depth. The 16 civilizations, four time periods, randomly generated small-ish maps featuring varied terrain and hosts of barbarians, and an assortment of Wonders and Great People, can make Revolution quite intimidating to new comers.

Second, the controls have been completely revamped for the Sixaxis. L1 accesses your city menu, R1 opens your diplomacy tab, R2 gives you a quick glance of your current resources. Switch between troops with the D-pad and move them with the left analog. It still sounds complicated, but once you get into the game, it’s a cinch to get to where you want to be, whether that’s a menu, a distant city, or front lines.

Victory can be achieved in one of four paths: militaristic, economic, cultural or technological. The first civilization to conquer all the capital cities, build the World Bank, or launch a rocket to Alpha Centauri wins the match. As much fun as it is to build vast armies and battles Al or create fabulously cultured cities, the highlight of Revolution is the multiplayer. Up to four players can test their strategic prowess via the PSN in Free for All, Team, or Head to Head matches. And it only takes a couple hours to net a victory.
[via Firaxis]