The Civilization series has long been revered as a cornerstone of strategy gaming. With each installment, the franchise has evolved. Introducing new mechanics, civilizations, and gameplay experiences that keep players engaged for hours on end. I’ve been a passing fan of the game series until Civilization V.
It was then that I just fell in love with the series. However, the subsequent games, VI and Beyond Earth has yet to get back my interest with the series. Firaxis Games however, it seems like that Civilization VII will bring me back to the fold.
Before we continue, this review is based from the 1.1.1 version of the game. So expect some comments not coming from the day one version of the game.
Same Old Brand New You
One of the most striking aspects of Civilization VII is certain changes on key gameplay mechanics. The developers wanted make each sequel different from it’s predecessors. The core principles of city-building, resource management, and diplomacy remain intact. True to form however, Firaxis Games have introduced several new features that breathe life into the familiar formula.
The biggest change to Civilization VII is the changes to the civilization and age system. Where in previous titles you are locked in with the leader and the civilization all throughout your gameplay. But in VII, you are poised to get new civilizations as you jump into each age.
Civilizations and Leaders
Civilization VII brings a diverse array of civilizations and leaders to the table, each with its unique abilities, units, and buildings. The developers have made a conscious effort to ensure that every civilization feels distinct and offers a fresh gameplay experience. Historical accuracy is balanced with creativity, resulting in a roster that both history buffs and casual players will appreciate.
For instance, the inclusion of lesser-known civilizations alongside well-established ones enriches the game world. Players can explore unique strategies based on the strengths and weaknesses of their chosen civilization. Fostering a sense of discovery and experimentation. The leaders are also well-developed, with unique personalities that shine through in their diplomatic interactions. Engaging with these leaders feels more immersive than ever, as players navigate the intricacies of negotiation and rivalry. It doesn’t hurt too that wee finally get a Philippine based leader with Jose Rizal being part of the roster.
Additionally, the AI has seen significant improvements. In previous titles, players often encountered predictable behaviors from their opponents. In Civilization VII, the AI adapts to player strategies, making each game feel unique. Whether playing on a lower difficulty or facing off against seasoned opponents, the challenge is palpable. The AI’s diplomacy has also been revamped, allowing for more nuanced interactions and alliances that can shift dramatically based on player actions.
Cultural Development and Victory Conditions
One of the most exciting aspects of Civilization VII is the revamped cultural system. The game encourages players to pursue a multitude of victory conditions, from military domination and scientific advancement to cultural influence and diplomatic victory. The cultural development tree is extensive, allowing players to tailor their civilization’s growth to their preferred playstyle.
Players can now invest in cultural policies that reflect their civilization’s identity. This customization allows for a more personalized gaming experience, as players can shape their empires in ways that resonate with their strategic goals. The cultural victory condition has been expanded, with new avenues for influencing other civilizations and spreading one’s culture across the globe.
While the changes are very distinct to Civilization VII, it seems like there is lesser diversity of victory conditions.
Graphical and Audio Enhancements
Visually, Civilization VII is a feast for the eyes. The graphics have been significantly upgraded, with detailed animations, vibrant landscapes, and beautifully designed units. The art style strikes a balance between realism and the series’ iconic aesthetic, creating an immersive world that draws players in.
The audio design complements the visuals seamlessly. The soundtrack is a captivating blend of thematic music that adapts to the player’s actions, heightening the emotional experience of the game. The sound effects of city building, unit movements, and diplomatic encounters add depth to the gameplay, making each action feel impactful.
However, while we were given enhanced visuals, the UI system seems to be one of the few missteps with Civilization VII. It felt like you got less information from the UI system in Civ VII compared to the previous titles. And as of this review, there have been some changes to the UI, but they are still lacking. It’s promised however the future updates we will get more UI updates, or maybe just use a lot of the UI mods available.
Multiplayer Experience
Multiplayer has always been a vital component of the Civilization franchise. The multiplayer mode in Civilization VII still offers a variety of game types, from cooperative play to competitive matches, ensuring that players can enjoy the game with friends or against others around the world which was already available in previous versions.
It actually feels like you can connect easier in multiplayer with Civilization VII. And it seems like you can get back into games faster whenever player disconnects in Multiplayer. However
The introduction of asynchronous multiplayer allows players to engage with the game at their own pace. This means that even when schedules don’t align, players can continue their empires without the need for real-time sessions. This flexibility is a welcome addition for those who may not have the time for lengthy gaming marathons.
Console Port: Switch Edition
As part of this review, I was able also acquire the switch edition of Civilization VII and I must say I am surprised with the quality of the game for the portable version.
The visuals in Civilization VII are surprisingly impressive for the Switch. While you won’t get the same ultra-high-definition graphics as on PC or consoles, the art style is still vibrant and fits well with the theme of the game. The performance holds up fairly well for both docked and portable mode with minor frame drops during intense moments but nothing that detracts significantly from the experience.
The controls have been optimized for the Switch, and the touchscreen functionality is a welcome addition. Navigating the map and managing your civilization feels intuitive, although some complex maneuvers may require time to get used to.
Conclusion: A Worthy Successor
In conclusion, Civilization VII is a welcome change to the Civilization gameplay even though the game changes would take time to get used to. The core gameplay experience is still there. With 60 hours in, I’ve been enjoying the game immensely.
It must be said however, that even with the game already at version 1.1.1, it seems like the game took one step forward and two steps back in certain aspects. This is mostly seen in how the unmodded game UI still lacks the intuitiveness of older game versions.
Multiplayer and cross play experience is very impressive most especially on the Switch. Considering the capabilities of the console I was still able to enjoy the Civilization VII experience. Though admittedly, I’ve set my expectations really low.
With that said, Civilization VII still offers a captivating journey through history, strategy, and diplomacy. It is a game that not only honors its legacy but also paves the way for future innovations in the genre. As players embark on their quests to build empires, they will undoubtedly find themselves lost in the intricate tapestry of Civilization VII, eager to explore every avenue of strategy and negotiation.
You can check out the Steam page for Civilization VII here.
