Space Empires IV

 PC
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. Yahoo!
    100
    A must-have for any fan of this genre and is easily my selection as strategy game of the year so far.
  2. IGN
    90
    It's a good thing I'm not married because this game could be considered legitimate grounds for divorce. It's the best game in its genre I've seen in a long time.
  3. Computer Games Magazine
    90
    The element that sets Space Empires IV apart from other games in the genre is common sense, which is the glue that binds its components together.
  5. Electric Playground
    85
    It is a well-done game and is very addictive but everything is just too flat.
  6. GameSpot
    81
    A superb strategy game. It's definitely the most sophisticated space-empire game available right now. If you're serious about space strategy, you can't afford to miss it.
  7. PC Gamer
    80
    Not for everyone, but turn-based space-sim fans will be hooked. [Mar 2001, p.92]
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  8. Gamers' Temple
    80
    Space Empires IV does an excellent job of providing the detail-happy player with an engrossing and engaging game.
  9. Armchair Empire
    80
    SE4 biggest strength is the ability to flip a variety of options before the game even starts.
  10. CNET Gamecenter
    70
    The game is perhaps a bit too complex, and the graphics--while functional--do little to pull you into the universe. Nevertheless, this game's a keeper.
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  11. ActionTrip
    70
    Complexity, configurability, a large number of technologies and freedom in designing new units will provide a lot of fun hours of play.
  12. GameZone
    65
    If, however, animation means little to you, and you are looking for a solid, space civ game that requires chess-like moves, this program may be exactly what you are looking for.
  13. Media and Games Online Network
    64
    This game is for the strategy gamer and those who love space scenarios. This is a game that will really get you going.
  14. Game Over Online
    57
    The game has one glaring hole that has to disappoint everyone who plays it, even long standing fans of the series, and that is the combat system.

Awards & Rankings

46
#46 Best PC Game of 2000
21
#21 Most Discussed PC Game of 2000

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 45 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 45
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 45
  3. Negative: 8 out of 45
  1. AndrewH.
    Apr 11, 2006
    2
    There is no fun is the game, click after click, cannot stand it. And the noise that I have in the background means i have to play in silence...
  2. whitesun11
    Nov 20, 2013
    7
    It's a not bad 4x space turn-based strategy game with some decent customization options but weak graphics and poor user interface. ComplexityIt's a not bad 4x space turn-based strategy game with some decent customization options but weak graphics and poor user interface. Complexity and depth is not that outstanding for games of that genre, and gameplay is OK too, although there are some nice ideas. The 'one more turn' thing appeared after 2-3 hours of play, but didn't last for very long. So I would give 9 for gameplay, strategy and complexity, 10 for race cutomization, 6 for graphics (but I understand, it is not so import in games like this) and 3 for user interface (I think it IS important in games like this).… Full Review »
  3. gas
    Aug 6, 2012
    9
    Got this game since release, and i played also previously Space Empires games.
    I liked and sill i like turn based games, space or not space    Got this game since release, and i played also previously Space Empires games.
    I liked and sill i like turn based games, space or not space related (read Laser Squad, X-COM, Jagged alliance, Master of Orion, Galactic Civ etc), and actually is 2012 and still i think this is the best space strategy game on the market.
    Its huge, there are impressive and very different AI, the customization is immense, research is very appealing and will end to have a great impact on the player empire as its not possible to research all in a single game, there are at least 3-4 must try mods.
    The only flaw sadly is the fact actually the turn based combat system could end to be a bit boring, especially if playing with a huge number of units, but still if you like turn based very solid strategy games this is really a must    … Full Review »
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