I think calling Civilization “basic” is really doing it an injustice. This game blew the competition away complexity-wise in its day, with maybe the exception of a few SSI wargames. There are so many systems inside which are interlocked, interdependent… sure, later parts added more. Though adding a bit more is not nearly as big a deal as coming up with the foundation.
When I’m in the mood for Civilization these days, I play the first or the third. Part #2 just did nothing meaningful, “more of the same” without purpose (maybe small exception, the addition of unit hitpoints). The third actually did some thinking. #4 spoiled it all with its ultra-slow gameplay and the graphics engine from hell, destroying all overview. Didn’t play the spyware ones after that, but from what I read, they actually reduced complexity again, didn’t they?
