The Civilization series has always been known for offering comprehensive strategy games. Starting with the first game in 1991, players were provided with countless hours of playable content. Over the years, the series has expanded, introducing additional game modes, online capabilities, and a wide range of single-player and multiplayer content. However, there is still room for improvement in Civilization 7.
While the Civilization series excels in providing a complete strategy experience, it lacks in the storytelling department. Unlike other strategy titles such as Age of Empires, Anno 1800, and Crusader Kings, which feature campaign modes with story missions, the Civilization series has never had one. Including a captivating campaign mode in Civilization 7 could truly differentiate it from its predecessors.
Civilization 7 Should Include Full Campaign Modes
The Civilization franchise has long been synonymous with its main game mode, where players strive to dominate the world and outwit other leaders by achieving various victory conditions. These objectives range from constructing the World Bank or the United Nations to pioneering the first colony ship in space. While the premise seems simple, this game mode is surprisingly intricate and addicting, constantly tempting players to take "just one more turn."
For numerous Civilization enthusiasts, this core game mode provides endless entertainment with its plethora of strategies, leaders, and variables that can captivate them for countless hours. However, for those seeking a more structured yet diverse experience, Civilization offers a selection of Scenarios. First introduced in Civilization 2 in 1996, Scenarios adhere to the same basic formula as a standard Civ match but incorporate additional rules and conditions. These factors often determine the player's character, opponents, starting units and cities, and the layout of the map, all typically based on specific historical events.
Over time, Scenarios have become a prominent feature in the Civilization franchise. While Civilization 2 initially had only 2 Scenarios, it eventually expanded to include an additional 20 as downloadable content (DLC). In contrast, Civilization 6 currently offers a total of 14 Scenarios, providing options for both single-player and multiplayer matches. Although it may have fewer Scenarios compared to its predecessors, Civilization 6's Scenarios offer a more substantial experience by completely altering gameplay to accommodate unique conditions and time settings. However, these Scenarios are relatively short-lived, lasting only a few hours, and lack significant narrative elements.
To innovate and differentiate itself, Civilization 7 should introduce a groundbreaking addition to the franchise - a comprehensive campaign mode. Ideally, Civilization 7 should provide a tailored campaign for each world leader, drawing inspiration from the underrated Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds game. Instead of offering only a brief Scenario for each leader, Civilization 7 could present a series of Scenarios that delve into their entire historical career, presenting players with the same challenges faced by these iconic figures. This approach would enable fans to enjoy full-length campaigns at their own pace, completing missions step by step. By introducing a robust single-player campaign, Civilization 7 would undoubtedly establish itself as a standout entry in the series.
Civilization 7 is currently in development.