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Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords PC
  • Publisher: Stardock
  • Release Date: Feb 21, 2006
Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords Image
Metascore
86 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 39 Critics What's this?

User Score
8.0 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 37 Ratings

Your Score
10 out of 10
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  • Summary: Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords is the sequel to Stardock's hit turn-based strategy game. Galactic Civilizations is a strategy game that takes place in the distant future where mankind has become a space-faring civilization and now must contend with other galactic powers who strive for domination in the galaxy. The basic concept behind Galactic Civilizations II is the same as the first one -- to build an interstellar civilization. [Strategy First]… Expand

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 39
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 39
  3. Negative: 0 out of 39
  1. G4 TV
    100
    Galactic Civilizations II doesn't quite share the spit and polish of its terrestrial alternative, but it more than makes up for it with endless customizability and brilliant gameplay.
  2. GameShark
    100
    Pretty much everything you could ask for in a turn based space strategy game: great AI, great diplomacy model, a ship designer, easy to understand techs, multiple races, multiple custom options, good graphics, solid interface, and a replay value that is through the roof.
  3. PC Format
    68
    It's not all bad - a few neat touches will bring a tear to old-skoolers' eyes, such as the random random generator for invasion battle odds. It's not enough to wow those spoilt by "Civ IV," though. [Apr 2006, p.95]
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See all 39 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 25
  3. Negative: 5 out of 25
  1. BrianY.
    9
    Old time strategy gamers like me who fell in love with the MOO series knows how disappointing it has been waiting for something to even come close to the Microprose classics. Well Galactic Civilizations II comes prett darn close to filling the void. A nice technology tree, awesome AI, customizable ships, and a great 3D strategy engine helps you relive the glory. One thing missing is tactical control of starship battles as they are played out only in cinematic view. The technology tree is also a little bland as Laser I-IV are as creative as they can get. On the plus side it is a constant design challenge to use equip your ships with the proper defense and weapons. Ship design is also a great feature where your options as far as cosmetic are limitless. Your ships on the starmap actually look like the one you designed too. The 3D starmap is a direction these games need to go where you set at what level you see the model of your ship or a color coded icon from a GOD's eye perspective. Diplomacy is also more fullfilling as the AI is truly the best I have seen in these type of games, MOO included. As far bugs, I have encountered very few bugs, and none that detract from the game. There practically weekly updates so the you know the publisher is on top of their game.… Expand
    • 2 of 2 users said yes
  2. MaxC.
    5
    It seems that this game is pretty much decided in the first phase where you have to rush out and grab planets and resources, and then manage the lease burden. If you don't get a good start, forget it. looks very pretty though.… Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  3. ChristopherPowell
    4
    I tried to like this game, I really did, but I have to concede and say this game just isn't that interesting. It does almost everything right, but misses the crucial "fun" part of the game. Slow, unimaginitive, stylistically devoid, ugly (particularly the race portraits), bland, and ultimately, just boring. There's a critical lack of cohesion between all the aspects of the game, making playing a chore. I'd rather play any of the Master of Orions than this. Terribly overrated.… Expand
    • 1 of 2 users said yes

See all 25 User Reviews