Is the Civilization Series Breaking Tradition with No 7 in Sight?
Possible output: Civilization fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series, but rumors suggest that Civilization 7 might not follow the usual pattern Some speculate that the game could be radically different from its predecessors, or even take a break from the main franchise Whatever the case, Firaxis has promised to deliver a compelling and innovative experience for players Stay tuned for more updates on Civilization 7
For more than 30 years, the Civilization franchise has maintained its position as a dominant force in the strategy video game market. Despite its age, the original Civilization game released in 1991 was a groundbreaking title that offered a unique and unparalleled strategic experience. Unlike other strategy games at the time, Civilization presented players with an expansive, real-world sandbox to explore, complete with numerous objectives beyond simply military conquest.
Over the years, the franchise has continued to evolve, adding new nations, leaders, units, and victory conditions. However, these changes have been gradual and the core gameplay of the Civilization franchise has remained largely the same for decades. Although occasionally, the series ventures into uncharted territory, and with the upcoming release of Civilization 7, it may be poised to take a new direction for the first time since 2006.
Civilization 7 Might Break a Long-Time Series Tradition
Upon the release of Civilization 4 in 2005, the franchise received a significant upgrade with the introduction of a new 3D engine, advanced AI, improved multiplayer capabilities, and user-friendly enhancements. Civilization 4 was considered to be a new beginning for the series, which was commemorated by the launch of CivCity: Rome, a spinoff that deviated from the traditional 4X strategy formula. Unlike previous spinoffs like Colonization and Alpha Centauri, CivCity: Rome focused on the management of a single city under the leadership of a Roman commander. The gameplay involved ensuring the city's prosperity by providing necessary commodities and facilities, resembling a tycoon game more than a 4X strategy game. CivCity: Rome was released just nine months after Civilization 4, marking a unique departure from the franchise's previous offerings.
Civilization Revolution, released just two years after CivCity: Rome, closely followed the mainline series but simplified many of the franchise's more complex systems to create a more accessible experience for newcomers. The pattern of two spinoff titles between mainline entries continued with Civilization: Beyond Earth and Civilization Revolution 2 released alongside Civilization 5 in 2014. However, this trend appears to be coming to an end with the upcoming release of Civilization 7.
It's been confirmed that Civilization 7 is in the works at Firaxis, which is exciting news for fans of the series. However, it's worth noting that this will be the first time in 20 years that there won't be any spinoff entries released between mainline Civilization games. A spinoff title can offer a fresh and unique experience that differs from the mainline games, making it a shame that it's been nearly a decade since the last one was released. Nonetheless, the anticipation for Civilization 7 is still high and fans are eagerly awaiting its release.
