LOL, I just made a post very similar to this topic...
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One general comment... the .SAV should be able to be read by 2.42 (Classic), 2.62 (CiC), 2.72 (FW), and 5.4.0f (MGE). This is so the max number of people can access the game. In effect, it means the game must be saved in 2.42 format, without any of the special options that can conflict with other versions.
Classic = "original", which is sold for less than $10 USD at discount stores.
CiC = Conflicts in Civilization
FW = Future Worlds
MGE = Multiplayer Gold Edition
For those that can't use the .SAVs, like Sony Playstation, or no internet dowload privliges (e.g., work, or gov't access only), much participation is still possible, and we (some of us) will be posting key screenshots anyway.
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It is my understanding that the Civ 2 classic (2.42) .SAVs are the most compatible.... assuming this to be true, the game should be played in 2.42. This means Presidents must have 2.42, or downgrade using Cedric's patch.
So I voted for 2.42 to ensure any Civ 2 PC/MAC players can download and read the games.