Attic of the Underdogs

Space Empires IV

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Review by Underdogs:
One of the best turn-based "4X" space strategy games ever made Space Empires IV is a massive space strategy game for Windows. You control your empire in an ever-changing and hostile galaxy. All the elements of a good 4X game is here: design your starships and use them to explore new solar systems throughout the galaxy, colonize new worlds, and conquer the galaxy. What sets Space Empires IV apart from most other 4X games is the amazing array of options. Literally hundreds of different components are available to place on your ships, and there is a mind-boggling number of facilities you can build on your planets, and star systems to explore. Gameplay options are also expertly balanced: the AI and rules are set in such a way that you can actually win the game with good intelligence and espionage, if you don't feel like building massive starfleets. Best of all, the technology tree in the game is HUGE -- you'll be unlocking new and interesting gadgets, buildings, units, and more tech for a long time in the game. Space Empires IV also introduces a great feature that more games should emulate: the division of technology into "theoretical" and "practical." Researching a theoretical technology opens up more disciplines you can research on, while practical technology gives you what you want (e.g. a weapon) straight away. In addition, the game also shines in all other respects of a 4X game: you can trade almost anything with other races (planets, resources, etc.), and combat interface is one of the best I've seen.

With a plethora of options, strong AI, and very high replayability, Space Empires IV should be considered a true heir of Master of Orion, if a bit less accessible due to significant micromanagement. If you fancy yourself an armchair space commander with ambition and are not afraid of spreadsheets and statistics, this is the game you've been waiting for. Two thumbs up, way up!

Average Rating:8.67 [863 votes]
Genre:Strategy
Designer:Aaron Hall
Developer:Malfador Machinations
Publisher:Shrapnel Games
Year:2001
Software Copyright:Malfador Machinations
Theme:Science Fiction, Epic, Design Tool
Multiplayer:
Related Links:Official site , Official MODs , Space Empires IV Play By Web
More Info:Mobygames | The Web
System Requirements:Windows 95/98
If you like this game, try:Master of Orion, Space Empires III, Ascendancy
Thanks to... 
Technical Notes: