Chapter 2 in Game Design: Theory and Practice contains an interview with Sid Meier (creator of Civilization), The interviewer mentions the addictive quality of the game. Sid Meier explains that this aspect of the game was not anticipated but somehow came together in the game. All the pieces of the game fit together and the sum of all those pieces is the addictiveness.

As I was perusing for game information, I came across a review on Civilization III. This reviewer contends that this version is more addictive than earlier versions. Civilization III also incorporates new games and other ways to win. You can read more about this review on Civilization III Review.

The reviewer concludes that Civilization III is clever and subtle. He says the graphics aren’t that great but that’s not what this game is about. It is about addiction and it does a great job. I think that this is one element that you would want in a game especially an educational game.