[Indemaijinj]

With the old Civ try this (rather cheesy):

Use the Map of Earth. Start as Russians (it is the starting position that matters and their tune is cool too).

Get the Wheel ASAP! Spam chariots and go for Europe. (Lots of civs, bundled together, most likely at war with each other: Easy pickings!)

Go see what's happening down in the Middle East/India area.

You are now in a position to launch assault against Africa, Far East, Africa (you've probably already been in North Africa) and North America (you can get a Trireme there via Iceland and Greenland).

Now you've conquered most of the world only using ancient weapons tecnology which clearly shows that the chariot is broken.

Play Civ2 instead, almost exactly the same gameplay, but far more balanced.

Generally you should conquer another civilisation early to give you a "boost".

I personally prefer Alpha Centauri. Not because of the futuristic setting, but because of the political possibilities. In the other civs it usually boils down to conquest. There is little motivation to be at peace other than perpetual war can strain the budget. In Alpha Centauri, however it is quite feasible to be peaceful. When I play Alpha Centauri I usually go great lengths to avoid war, not just staying out of conflict myself, but avoiding war in general.

I try to build up a powerbase where i can coerce others into forming peace treaties with each others. If someone refuses to stop warmongering I have an american-style navy ready at all times to keep them in line.