Galactic Civilizations IV is a space-based 4X strategy game set in the 24th century. Humans have discovered faster-than-light travel, and aliens compete with humanity for dominion of the galaxy.

You begin the game with only your home planet and must research new technologies, explore the known galaxy, and colonize new worlds while keeping your people at home happy. At the same time, you will engage in trade, diplomacy, intrigue and war with other alien civilizations.

Galactic Civilizations IV builds on the successes of all its predecessors and adds so much more to the game. You will appoint leaders, explore star sectors, and enjoy a brand-new combat and invasion system. More in-depth research options, story driven missions, and a new 4-axis ideology system will fully immerse you into your role as a galactic leader.

- Explore the galaxy. Seek out new star systems and discover the exciting potential of the subspace realm.
- Meet new civilizations. The universe is teeming with civilizations both advanced and primitive. Set opponents' difficulty and technological advancement.
- Colonize new worlds. Thousands of worlds to colonize, most awful but all colonizable…if you dare.
- Discover new technologies. Invent new technologies, some are easier than others for your species to grasp.
- Recruit and mentor citizens. Each citizen is unique with their own strengths and weaknesses.
- Shape your government. Determine which citizens to place in positions of power and what planets you wish to see governed while taking care not to be defeated in a coup.