Summary
Civilization 7is out now, launching with a “mixed” user review rating on Steam, though the boss of Take-Two, the game’s parent company, says things will eventually turn around. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has acknowledged the mixed receptionCivilization 7received during its early access release, claiming fans, especially longtime ones, will soon come to love the game, commending the title’s early performance despite some lukewarm reviews.
Civilization 7introduces a lot of changes that may throw both longtime players and newcomers alike for a loop, though the game still features the classic strategy tactics the series is known for. Acting as the seventh mainline entry in Sid Meier’slegendaryCivilizationturn-based strategyfranchise and the direct sequel to the nearly-decade-oldCivilization 6,Civilization 7seeks to improve upon previous releases, though some of the changes have been divisive. Fans have been eagerly anticipatingCivilization 7’s release since it was first announced, but now that the game is out, at least in an early-access period, it’s been met with mixed reviews.
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick was recently interviewed byIGN, in which the executive acknowledged thatCivilization 7had received some negative reviews, namely fromEurogamer, which gave the game a 2/5. “We have more than 20 press reviews with a score over 90," said Zelnick. “We have some negative outliers as well, including a 40 from Eurogamer.“Civilization 7also launched to “mixed” reviews on Steam. However, Zelnick isn’t that worried about these initial reactions, insisting that the “legacy"Civilizationaudience will come around toCivilization 7the more they play. “The Metacritic reviews are at 81, which is really solid,” Zelnick said, with the executive also commentingonCivilization 7’s overall launch, calling it “very encouraging.” Currently, the game has an average score of 82 onOpenCritic.
Take-Two CEO Confident Civ 7 Reviews Will Improve
“We think that as people play the game longer, the sentiment improves,” continued Zelnick. “With every launch of a newCiv, the team pushes the envelope a little bit, and our legacyCivaudience is a little bit nervous about what they initially see, and then they realize, wow, this is actually really incredible, and they dive in.“Steam reviews forCivilization 7cite issues with the game’s user interface, along with claims about it lacking map variety. Some users also feelCivilization 7launched without several features fans have come to expect from the franchise. The game also seeks to addressCivilization 6’s divisive visual style changes, though some reviews claimCivilization 7lacks personality.
Civilization7 has made several changes to gameplay, specifically with its new Ages system. A completeCivilization 7campaign will now span through three distinct Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Players will need to adapt to each Age, choosing a different civilization to play as each one passes. While adding an entirely new issue for players to think about is certainly welcome, it may prove challenging to understand. Firaxis creative directorEd Beach urged players to try outCivilization 7’s tutorial, stating he and the rest of the team want fans to have as easy and smooth of a time transitioning to the new system as possible.Civilization 7is currently in early access for those who purchased the Deluxe or Founder’s editions, with an official release coming February 11.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
WHERE TO PLAY
The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter.Sid Meier’s Civilization® VIIempowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!InCivilization VII, your strategic decisions shape the unique cultural lineage of your evolving empire. Rule as one of many legendary leaders from throughout history and steer the course of your story by choosing a new civilization to represent your empire in each Age of human advancement.Construct cities and architectural wonders to expand your territory, improve your civilization with technological breakthroughs, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations as you explore the far reaches of the unknown world. Pursue prosperity in an immersive solo experience or play with others in online multiplayer.Whether you choose to follow a path rooted in history or reimagine possibilities to chart your own way forward, build something you believe in and create a legacy that echoes through the Ages inCivilization VII.
