


With these enhancements, Colonization requires video cards that support Pixel Shader 1.1 ( Direct X 8.0). The game runs on an upgraded version of the Civilization IV engine with changes including enhanced graphics, streamlined code, and redesigned interfaces. For example, if a nation chooses a monarchical system, then it can still trade with Europe during the war for independence. Īfter the player declares independence, players draft a constitution determining the government style of their independent nation. Moreover, founding fathers will only join nations with certain criteria, namely a certain level of "points" obtained in various categories (political, military, exploration, religion, and trade). Each founding father is recruited by one and only one nation/player. Unlike the original Colonization game, nations cannot recruit the same founding fathers. This means that rivals cannot pass into each other's land unless they have an open borders agreement - or they have declared war. In addition, national borders is a gameplay concept taken from Civilization IV. When starting the game, in addition to choosing a starting European nation, a player chooses between two governors, each with different advantages. Ĭivilization IV: Colonization has many new gameplay mechanics. In addition to single-player campaigns, the new game has a multiplayer component. The player's selection of nationality, made at the start of the game, affects the colony's standing in the world: the English receive an immigration bonus, the Dutch enjoy trade bonuses, the French diplomacy edge encourages more favorable relations with native tribes, while the Spanish Conquistador bonus favors conquest against the natives. Skilled craftsmen produce twice as much as regular workers and specialist buildings can be built to increase overall production as well. Additionally, silver can be mined for direct trade and ore can be mined to turn into tools and then in turn guns. By harvesting natural resources, skilled craftsmen can convert them into finished goods for sale or trade. Additional colonists from Europe or converted natives can result in population increases after food surpluses exceed a preset level.Įconomics and trade come into play when the player makes finished goods and sells them in Europe or trades with the natives for other goods or gold. The player influences the direction of his colony through choices in diplomacy, recruitment and city management. Players may also recruit founding fathers to join their cause, each with a specific bonus that helps throughout the game. To build their cities, players must balance negotiations with several groups: the natives of the Americas, colonists from the player's home country and other colonists from the old world.
