Civilization 7 has officially hit a major milestone by going gold, paving the way for its much-anticipated release this coming February. This term, “going gold,” signifies that the game’s development is complete and it’s ready to be produced and distributed. This entails sending the game to manufacturers to start the printing and packaging process.
For those unfamiliar with its storied history, the Civilization series is a legendary turn-based strategy franchise that originated back in 1991, crafted by the esteemed Sid Meier. With its latest installment, Civilization 7, the series continues to expand. The game will be accessible on various platforms such as PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. Interestingly, Valve has confirmed that Civilization 7 is verified for the Steam Deck, making it the first in the series to earn the Steam Deck-verified status, which is exciting news for gamers who enjoy handheld gaming.
Firaxis Games and publisher 2K made the announcement on social media, playfully proclaiming, “We’ve struck gold!” in their post. There are exciting new elements awaiting players, including revamped combat mechanics and a fresh approach where leaders are not tethered to specific nations. Another exciting feature is the cross-play capability between PC and consoles, which allows friends to embark on multiplayer endeavors, navigating through single or multi-age campaigns. Players can follow a historically accurate storyline or chart a novel path, forging a unique legacy that resonates throughout their gameplay experience.
Civilization 7 brings back some beloved features from its predecessors, including iconic wonders like the Terracotta Army and Mount Kilimanjaro. These nostalgic elements have been met with enthusiasm from fans, as evident from the abundance of “one more turn” comments flooding the announcement post. The excitement is palpable, with many fans rushing to pre-order, eager to dive into the game as soon as it launches.
As the release date approaches, fans have had the opportunity to pre-order various special editions of Civilization 7, each offering unique incentives. The game is available in Standard, Deluxe, Founders, and Collector’s Editions. The Collector’s Edition is the most extravagant, priced at $279.99, and includes exclusives like the Passage of Time clock, a Scout figure, and a Yield Icon Patch Set. Those who pre-order the Standard Edition will receive the Tecumseh Leader and the Shawnee Civilization as a bonus.
Civilization 7 is expected to elevate the strategy gaming experience to new heights. It invites players to create a legendary empire and make impactful decisions that determine the cultural trajectory of their civilization. From constructing magnificent cities to advancing technologically, the game offers rich solo and multiplayer avenues to explore and conquer the unknown. Whether you choose a historically faithful route or an imaginative new one, the game beckons players to craft a legacy that echoes through the ages.