Colonization
| Developer: MicroProse | Graphics: |
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| Publisher: MicroProse | Sound: |
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| Year: 1995 | Difficulty: |
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| Genre: Strategy | Lastability: |
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| Number of players: 1 | Rating: |
9/10 | |
Colonization is considered a follow-up to Civilization, largely borrowing its gameplay mechanics (turn-based map exploration, organising a community of settlers, wiping out indigenous populations … the usual). The twist is that these mechanics are set during the Age of Exploration, as European powers colonize the Americas.
You play as an explorer from one of four competing nations: Spain, England, the Netherlands, or France (the Portuguese decided to stay home). Each nationality has its own special advantage— for example, the French maintain better relations with the Native Americans. The game begins on a ship, right at the moment of discovering the New World. Very quickly, you land—under the wary eyes of the locals—and begin searching for a suitable place to set up your first camp, which may grow into a village and, if you’re lucky, a thriving colony. This colony will need to be developed, both in terms of population and technology, until it is strong enough to declare independence from its mother country (and trust me, its mother country won’t be thrilled about that!). So, for seasoned strategy game players: reconnaissance, growth, independence!
The vast, randomly generated terrain (optional) and the variety of strategies at your disposal offer a great deal of freedom. You could decide to build ties with the Native Americans, or—historically speaking—crush them and ravage their lands. Alternatively, you could choose to convert these “heathens” to Christianity (the developers chose not to include slavery, but it was definitely on the agenda). Plus, there’s no shortage of other activities, like trading, farming, fortifying your home turf, searching for treasure, or distilling rum.
Unlike its cousin, Civilization, Colonization leans a bit less on military conquest and more on trade and resource production. However, keep in mind that the game inevitably ends with a massive battle when you declare your sovereignty to your dear king—and his army.
In short, this is a rich, intelligent strategy game, not exactly visually spectacular but highly engrossing. Games can last for weeks! But be sure to dedicate the first few hours to reading the manual.
I would recommend the PC version, which I find better presented. I’m not a fan of the multiple-window system on Amiga. Sure, the music is of higher quality, but in a game like this, you’ll end up muting it sooner or later.
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