Gamefings logoimg

Review of Civilization VI on Nintendo Switch

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Nov 2018
Cover image of Civilization VI on Switch
Gamefings Score: 9
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 16 Nov 2018
Genre: Turn-based strategy, 4X
Developer: Firaxis Games
Publisher: 2K

Introduction

If you're looking for a way to lose not just your weekend, but potentially your job and several relationships, look no further than Sid Meier's Civilization VI on the Switch. You control a civilization from the Stone Age to the Information Age while balancing diplomacy, culture, technology, and the occasional nuclear war-all in the comfort of your couch and while your friends wait for you to finish. Welcome to history, one turn at a time.

Gameplay

Civilization VI takes turn-based strategy to a whole new level by introducing the concept of "city unstacking." Now, rather than cramming everything into one hex like a cheapskate trying to save on rent, you can spread out your cities and their improvements across the map. Need a neighborhood? Get ready to place it in the best scenic spot (with minimum barbarians, please). The gameplay mechanics roll deeper than a taco truck's taco shell. On your quest to develop your civilization, you'll be exploring, expanding with cities, exploiting resources, and exterminating enemies (or at least keeping them in check with all the diplomacy in your back pocket). The game introduces numerous civilizations with unique units and bonuses, providing that sweet variety. Do you want to sail the seas with Norway's Viking ships or build wonders with Cleopatra? The choice is yours, and trust me, the strategic depth will keep you glued to your screen (and probably glued to your chair). Diplomacy feels like a double-edged sword. You can trade, negotiate, or wage war with other civilizations or city-states. Though don't be fooled; while diplomatic relations may seem sweet, your friendly neighbor might just knife you in the back once you're not looking.

Graphics

Graphically, Civilization VI opts for a bright and playful style that balances the complexity of its mechanics. The visuals are clean, allowing you to discern the multitude of units and buildings without having to squint like you're trying to read the fine print on a legal document. The game's aesthetic feels fresh and cartoonish, making the often tedious calculations fly off into the whimsical ether. The fog of war resembles old-school exploratory maps, which will have map lovers rejoicing as they uncover the unknown like it's the first time they've ever seen a taco. And yes, there's a day-night cycle, maybe just enough to make you forget that you missed dinner... again.

Conclusion

Civilization VI on the Switch is not just a game. It's a commitment, a lifestyle, and a majestic time sink where every click could lead to the rise or fall of your empire. Whether you're wrestling with the heavy burden of nuclear paranoia or simply trying to build the coolest city ever, Civilization VI delivers an unparalleled strategy experience right at your fingertips. Embrace the historical chaos and remember: you didn't just lose three hours; you conquered them! While it's challenging to compete against the PC version's capabilities, the flexibility of the Switch makes it worth every minute spent ignoring your social life. Get ready to tell your boss, "Sorry, I'm busy building an empire!" Happy conquering!

See Latest Prices for Civilization VI on Switch on Amazon

See Prices for Civilization VI on Switch on Ebay

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Sophie Turner Is Lara Croft — How Tomb Raider's Brutal Skill Ceiling Will Shape Amazon's TV Take'
Hemal Harris - 04 Sep 2025
Sophie Turner will play Lara Croft in Amazon's Tomb Raider series. Here's how the show can capture the games' brutal challenge loo...
image for news article 'Gamescom 2025: From Hornet's Revenge to Gunfights in the Future — The Biggest Reveals, Ranked by Hype (and Probability of Screaming)'
Gemma Looksby - 27 Aug 2025
Gamescom 2025 unleashed release dates, surprises, and enough nostalgia to power a retro arcade. Hollow Knight: Silksong finally la...
image for news article 'From Sidekick to Symptom: An In-Depth Look at How Game Characters Grow (and Break) Over Time'
Tanya Krane - 22 Aug 2025
A witty, in-depth analysis of how video game characters evolve - from antiheroes and companions to tragic villains - and how gamep...
image for news article 'Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Skill Test — How to Survive When Friendly Fire Is A Feature'
Hemal Harris - 22 Aug 2025
Helldivers 2 turns cooperative shooters into a terrifying teamwork exam. From friendly-fire fiascos to stratagem juggling and glob...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus August Drop: Mortal Kombat 1, Spider-Man, Sword of the Sea and Two Resident Evils — Sony’s Buffet of Beatdowns and Beachside Introspection'
Chucky - 22 Aug 2025
Sony's August PlayStation Plus drop mixes Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel's Spider-Man with day-one indie Sword of the Sea, EDF6 co-op ...
image for news article 'Tariff Drama and Console Character Arcs: How the PS5 Price Hike Recasts PlayStation's Story'
Tanya Krane - 21 Aug 2025
Sony just raised PS5 prices in the US - but this is more than a number. We break down the cast, the catalyst (hello, tariffs), and...
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...