Civilization VI
- Michael Wood
- Oct 21, 2016
- 3 min read
As some of you might have heard, we have been playing a fun video game in History class called Civilization VI. I received a lot of raving reviews by the students, but I thought I would take a moment to answer a few questions that may come up regarding this game.
What is it?
It is a PC game that has been around for 25 years. Version 6 is the newest edition that released on October 21, 2016. It is a turn-based strategy game where the player chooses a historical civilization such as the Greeks, the Americans, etc. and attempts to build their civilization from a small tribe to a large empire that stands the test of time. The game goes from the Stone Age to the Space Age. More details regarding the game itself can be found on their website, https://www.civilization.com
What's the game play look like?
Please watch this video as they walk you through all the game mechanics.
Is this game part of K12?
No. K12 and its affiliates do not endorse this game. It is a 3rd party learning tool used by the teacher and should be treated on its own merits.
Who else is playing this game at K12?
So far, only students enrolled in Mr. Wood's class are playing. There may be other teachers, but it is unknown at this time.
What does this game have to do with the lessons in K12?
It is meant to be a supplement to the K12 History curriculum. Through playing a game students get excited about history and begin to understand various parts of history and how those parts work. For example, students can read the definition of a dictatorship in their text book, but seeing their citizens get unhappy will providing a bonus to military units, students begin to understand what a dictatorship is and how it affects the citizens placed under it.
Is this game historically accurate?
Yes and No. The people, places, events, structures, and geography are close to being historically accurate, but the gaming aspects make the story of history quite outlandish and fanciful. For example, the people of France may elect to build the pyramids or the Greeks may develop Buddhism. It's history all thrown into a blender. However, the gaming elements help students understand the mechanisms of history. If the French were to build a pyramid, the students must understand why they would choose to do so. What sort of advantages do pyramids give a civilization? At what cost? Then when students read about the real pyramids of Giza, they come in with a better understanding of their function and importance.
The game features a historically accurate Civilopedia with detailed articles describing civic and historical concepts.
How long will they playing this game?
As long as students remained engaged and excited to come to class, we will continue playing at my discretion. It is TBD, for the most part.
What if students learn history wrong?
The game is merely a supplement. If the students are reading their K12 history five days a week as prescribed in the OLS, then they will clearly see the gaming elements versus what they are reading in their text book. The scenarios we play in class attempt to align with what they are learning in the OLS.
What if I don't want my student playing this game?
Please let me know. I believe no student should lose out on a quality education for the sake of a supplemental tool. We can move back to the text book at any time.
Please contact me should you have nay further questions.
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