I'm relatively new to 4x and civ VI didnt really grab me. Old World on the other hand has the atmosphere, hand holding, historical context and depth that seems to have just clicked for me. Really enjoying it and looking forward to experiencing the breadth of content it already has.
It combines Elements of Stellaris (narration based decisions) and Crusader Kings (Dynasties, Families) with the core-Strengh of Civ4 -Every Decision matters- (the leaddesigner was also leaddesigner of Civ4) to a unique 4x Pearl.
It has not the global scale of Civ, but it´s deeper, and....the AI is noticeably better than in Civ.
The first 4X game I played was Civilization I back in 1991 and I've played a ton of them since. Old World has perfected the formula at the same time as it's brought several innovations. I highly recommend Soren Johnson's dev blog about the making of the game and how and why they derived at every single pillar that makes up the gameplay loop. I consider Old World the best 4X yet made.
I usually only player sports games. This game has exceed expectations and the value I purchased for was more than fair. Glad to have this service with GoG.