Civilization 7 has hit the market, and while it's garnered a 'mixed' user review rating on Steam, Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, remains optimistic. He believes that the game's dedicated fanbase will grow to appreciate it as they delve deeper into its mechanics. Currently, Civilization 7 is accessible to those who opt for advanced access, a group typically comprised of the series' most ardent followers. These fans have been vocal on Steam, pointing out issues such as the user interface, a lack of map variety, and the absence of expected features at launch.
In response, Firaxis has committed to enhancing the user interface, introducing team-based multiplayer options, and expanding the variety of map types, among other improvements. This proactive approach aims to address the community's concerns and enhance the overall gaming experience.
During an interview with IGN, Zelnick acknowledged the mixed reviews, including a notably low score from Eurogamer, but highlighted the game's solid Metacritic score of 81 and over 20 reviews scoring above 90. He emphasized that the initial apprehension from the "legacy Civ audience" is common with new releases in the series, but as players spend more time with the game, their appreciation typically grows.
Zelnick pointed out that Civilization 7 introduces significant changes, such as the Age Transition system, which is a novel feature for the series. In this system, players progress through three Ages—Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern—and during each Age Transition, they select a new civilization, choose Legacies to carry forward, and witness the evolution of the game world. Despite the initial shock, Zelnick is confident that this innovative approach will win over fans in the long run.
However, Firaxis faces the immediate challenge of improving sentiment on Steam, where user reviews play a critical role in a game's visibility and success. Addressing the current issues swiftly and effectively will be key to turning the tide and ensuring Civilization 7's enduring appeal among its dedicated player base.