Civilization games are engrossing, often leading players to never actually finish a game. Recognizing this issue, developer Firaxis Games aims to solve it with Civilization 7.
In an interview with Game Developer, Creative Director Ed Beach disclosed that less than 50% of players completed a game of Civilization 6 due to its drawn-out pacing, which was widely disliked. To address this, Firaxis implemented several changes.
One significant alteration involved dividing the game into chapters (referred to as Ages). As Beach explained, “We’re only at three ages to get through the game, because there’s a lot of restructuring around the map that happens between the two age transitions. We wanted to make it so we could reset the board a little bit and simplify things out and change up the rules” in between and across each age.
Additionally, pacing adjustments were made to enhance the enjoyment of exploration throughout the entire gameplay, not just at the beginning. The game now starts in the Antiquity Age, allowing land exploration but restricting movement across bodies of water.
Despite these changes, Firaxis adheres to its Rule of Threes for Civilization 7: one-third of the previous game carries over, another third is modified, and the final part is entirely new. This update introduces new features like Ages and innovative uses for leaders. The revelation of Ages during Gamescom 2024 showcased the most significant change for Civilization players transitioning to the new game. Moreover, a tutorial overhaul for newcomers and the ability to mix and match leaders for varied gameplay experiences were also unveiled.
Civilization 7 is scheduled for release on February 11, 2025, on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch.
