A few questions

[Omanes Alexandrapolites]

Hi GamblaTuba,
Yep, the civil war will still occur in its usually grand fashion, whatever the situation. Although I'm quite surprised you can't declare it yet - full popularity with the people should be enough to proclaim your hostilities.

May I ask if you have ever had the "Chance to Power" message occur? If you have, then you should be able to attack/break alliances/remove treaties with the other Romans as if they were simply a "regular" bunch of misfits. Just incase you've missed it, you may want to attempt targeting your Roman foes to see if the attack is possible.

If it isn't an available option, and you receive the typical error message. Then I'm rather confused as to what could be causing the problem - I'm sure there aren't any bugs related to the triggering of the civil war in any versions of the game.

If you cannot attack Rome based upon your popular support (through the "Chance to Power" message), then you may have to wait for your senate popularity to drop low enough for them to decide that your faction leader is not worthy to live. This occurs when your popularity is about two shields or below.

If this is the case, then you will receive a demand for suicide from the senate. Say yes, and your faction leader dies, biding you more time till they make the request again. Say no, and you are outlawed. If this is the case, the senate declares war, and the other Roman factions often turn against you.

Hope this helps, good luck, cheers!

BTW, this post may interest you should you desire more detailed information regarding the civil war.