Firaxis is shaking up the Civilization formula in a big way with the upcoming Civilization 7, set for release in February 2025. The latest entry in the long-running strategy series introduces sweeping changes aimed at getting more players to complete full games.
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| A bustling scene in an ancient civilization showcasing strategic city planning, reflecting the ambition of Civilization 7 |
A New Three-Act Structure
Perhaps the most significant change is the new three-act structure. Instead of progressing through multiple historical eras, Civilization 7 features just three ages: Antiquity, Discovery, and Modern. Players will choose a new civilization at the start of each age, allowing them to experience different cultures and bonuses throughout a single playthrough.
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| An ancient marketplace filled with activity, symbolizing the diverse cultures players will explore in Civilization 7 |
Streamlined Systems
Other major changes include:
- Settlers now found towns instead of cities
- Workers have been removed, with improvements built automatically
- A new Influence resource for diplomacy
- Navigable rivers
- Powerful new Commander units that can stack other units
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| A strategic game map illustrating the new streamlined systems and settlement layouts in Civilization 7 |
Familiar Yet Fresh
Despite these changes, Creative Director Ed Beach assures that Civilization 7 still follows the Firaxis mantra of keeping 33% the same, updating 33%, and introducing 33% new content. The game aims to maintain the series' addictive one more turn gameplay while addressing issues like low completion rates.
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| Life in an ancient city showcasing community vibrancy, reflecting the balance of familiar and new elements in Civilization 7 |
Release Details
Civilization 7 is scheduled for release on February 11, 2025. It will be available on Windows, Linux, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch platforms at launch.
With its bold reimagining of core systems and focus on player engagement, Civilization 7 looks to breathe new life into the venerable 4X strategy series. Whether these changes will resonate with longtime fans remains to be seen, but Firaxis is clearly not content to rest on its laurels.