Developer Firaxis made the announcement of Civilization 7 in February, leaving fans with limited knowledge about the upcoming game. While it can be assumed that the game will retain the core gameplay from its predecessors, it is worth noting that the Civilization series has constantly evolved over its impressive thirty-two-year span. For instance, Civilization 5 introduced a transition from a grid-based to a hex-based world map. Similarly, Civilization 6 brought significant changes compared to its predecessor, Civilization 5, which received mixed feedback from the fanbase. Moreover, the expansions for Civilization 6 introduced numerous new features and reworks, showcasing Firaxis' willingness to introduce fresh elements.
With regards to Civilization 7, there is potential for the English civilization to undergo significant transformations. In the Civilization games, each civilization typically represents a specific era in its respective nation's history, and for England, this is primarily focused on the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, acknowledging the era of the British Empire. This emphasis on England's industrial and maritime power is evident in Civilization 6, as well as in previous iterations like Civ 4 and Civ 5. While this focus may be understandable, it fails to fully highlight the profound changes that England underwent throughout its history.
Civilization 7 Should Showcase England's Evolution
Like Scotland and Ireland, England was originally inhabited by the Celts, who gradually migrated from central Europe. It was later conquered by the Romans, who established the city of London. Following this, Germanic tribes known as the Angles and Saxons arrived, followed by a period of partial Norse rule about five hundred years later. The Anglo-Saxons eventually expelled the Norse invaders, but England was later invaded again by the Normans, who spoke French. All of these groups brought significant changes to England's culture and politics, leaving a lasting impact that is still evident today.
Throughout history, England went through several reinventions. The Hundred Years War played a vital role in shaping England's national identity. The establishment of the Church of England and the English Civil War also had long-lasting effects on English culture and politics. Moreover, England's status as a naval power experienced a significant transformation, with the English Navy rising to prominence in the 1600s.
One cannot reasonably anticipate that Civilization 7's gameplay would intricately simulate every factor and unpredictable event that contributed to the rise of England. Nevertheless, it would be captivating if the upcoming game could integrate certain aspects of England's historical journey into its game mechanics. Thankfully, Civilization 6 already possesses some viable systems that potentially pave the way for such incorporation.
In Civilization 5, unique abilities for each civilization were introduced, followed by leader bonuses in Civilization 6. These passive bonuses enhance the effectiveness of different civilizations in various aspects, drawing inspiration from their historical background. For instance, in Civilization 6: Gathering Storm, England's Civilization Ability is called "Workshop of the World," which provides several advantages for Military Engineers, Mines, Harbors, Industrial Zones, and powered Buildings. This reflects England's prominent position as a dominant industrial and economic force during the 19th century.
Nonetheless, Civilization 7 could better depict England's history by allowing its abilities to evolve throughout the game. Civilization 6 already incorporates mechanics that alter AI behaviors based on the era, making this suggestion viable. At the beginning of the game, England could receive a bonus specifically for Settler production, later transitioning to a focus on military strength during the Classical and Medieval eras, and ultimately attaining naval and economic supremacy during the Renaissance and Industrial eras.
Content could be revised as follows:
Instead, Firaxis has the option to link it with the leaders of Civilization 7. The leaders in Civilization 6 already had a significant impact with their Bonuses and Agendas. However, Civilization 7 has the potential to transform England's leaders by integrating the Civilization's Ability with them. It is worth noting that William the Conqueror's England was vastly distinct from that of Henry VIII or Queen Victoria.
Alternatively, England's Abilities could remain unchanged, but players could have the opportunity to switch leaders during the game. Regardless of the approach taken, it would further distinguish England from other nations in Civilization 7.
Civilization 7 is in development.