That would be the computer strategy game, Civilization III by Sid Meier.

It’s my favorite computer strategy game. I take great delight in starting a new game, exploring the artificial world (which is hidden and unknown to you as a player until you send units to explore or trade maps with another civilization after you have come into contact with them).

And of course, there is the thrill of conquering the world. There’s a fascination for the game that is widespread. The tasks, conflicts, and obstacles are crude approximations of the historical development of the world’s major powers. You start in 3000 BC and most games end before 2000AD. Turns represent 100 years at first, then slow down until they represent 10, then 5, then a single year. Mastering technology gives a civilization advantages in several ways. Making contact with other civilizations and trading goods and ideas with them can jump-start your civilization. Still going strong now, six years after its release in 2002.

Here’s a summary of “lessons” gleaned (which I think are strangely applicable to the real world):

• Explore the unknown early and aggressively.
• Seize the high ground early (But do not overextend).
• Be patient.
• Achieve a balanced advance scientifically, militarily, culturally.
• Trade opportunistically (but don’t give away your secrets).
• Forge strategic alliances.
• Concentrate your forces.
• When you fight, use overwhelming force.
• Battles/campaigns always take longer and cause you more losses than you expect.

– Rob Shearer