Civilization 7's launch has sparked a mixed reaction, with Steam user reviews expressing concerns about the user interface, limited map variety, and missing features. Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, however, remains optimistic, believing the game's core fanbase will ultimately embrace it.
The game's early access release, primarily targeting dedicated Civilization players, has seen these players vocalize their initial criticisms. These criticisms include UI shortcomings and a perceived lack of map diversity compared to previous iterations. Firaxis has acknowledged this feedback and pledged improvements, including UI enhancements, the addition of cooperative multiplayer teams, and a broader range of map types.
Zelnick, in an interview with IGN, noted the game's Metacritic score of 81 and numerous reviews exceeding 90, while acknowledging negative reviews such as Eurogamer's 2/5 score. He attributed some negative feedback to the innovative changes implemented by Firaxis, suggesting that the "legacy Civ audience" will grow to appreciate the game's novel features with increased playtime. He specifically highlighted the game's new Age Transition system, a significant departure from previous Civilization games, where players transition between Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern Ages, selecting new civilizations and legacies.
While Zelnick expresses confidence in the game's long-term appeal, Firaxis faces the immediate challenge of improving player sentiment, particularly on Steam. The platform's user review rating significantly impacts a game's visibility and overall success, making positive player feedback crucial for Civilization 7's future.
