Don't be fooled by the number above, I have more than 3k hours played at least. On the the review now:

I've been playing on and off since it's release. I've learned a lot of history and English terminology through playing this game as a kid. The game play is not the best: the next games are superior game play wise. However they eliminated the endless combat that reigns over Civ 3. It is one of these games, uniquely so, that you can hoard military units, stack them up near the enemy's borders, declare war and take 5 cities, big or small, before the enemy gets his turn. Although a lot, A LOT, of micromanagement is required to pull off this kind of tactic, it is really rewarding if somewhat tedious. The technology system is fine, it's slower than later games, but you have more time to play between eras. Most unique units are well-designed. A lot of Wonders are broken (Statue of Zeus, cough cough) and can allow you to cut through early eras like a knife through butter. Early eliminations are common and wonder fights are exciting.

The OST is BONKERS. I still listen to it, so many years later, even without playing. Jungle sounds, mesoamerican music etc. Really well orchestrated.

Overall, I've been enjoying this game for so many years. It's my childhood darling so I may be a bit far from objectively measuring its pros and cons.