Civilization VII: A bold redesign between innovation and compromise

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis, Laurent de Sortiraparis · Published on February 17, 2025 at 05:10 p.m.
Civilization returns for a new episode! Sid Meier's Civilization VII awaits you on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series from February 11, 2025. This new opus of the famous turn-based strategy game invites players to shape the cultural evolution of their empire.

Calling all fans of history and civilization... Sid Meier's Civilization VII, a video game developed by 2K, awaits you on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series on February 11, 2025. Developed by Firaxis Games, this latest installment in the turn-based strategy franchise sees players take on the role of a historical ruler, guiding their civilization through the ages. Strategic orientation and development choices will be decisive in shaping the culture of each empire.

In this new edition, players will be able to select a civilization and develop it according to their strategic decisions. Each era will bring its own challenges and opportunities, influencing the historical and cultural trajectory of the empire led. The game focuses on long-term decisions, involving resource management, diplomacy and territorial expansion.

Civilization VII : un nouvel opus pour les amateurs de stratégieCivilization VII : un nouvel opus pour les amateurs de stratégieCivilization VII : un nouvel opus pour les amateurs de stratégieCivilization VII : un nouvel opus pour les amateurs de stratégie

The aim is to adapt to events and technological changes to ensure the prosperity of your civilization. Sid Meier's Civilization VII follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, offering an in-depth tactical approach and refined gameplay mechanics to renew the experience of fans of the genre.

Our review of Civilization VII:

Firaxis attempts to renew the saga with Civilization VII, making major changes to its gameplay. While some of the new features are refreshing and successful, other decisions are likely to divide players, especially those seeking greater strategic depth.

New features that mark an interesting evolution

Among the game's highlights is the introduction of Ages, which divide history into three main periods: Antiquity, Exploration and Modernity. Each Age transition redefines gameplay, with units and mechanics adapted to the era. This evolution forces players to constantly review their strategy.

Another major innovation is the dissociation of leaders and civilizations. This offers greater flexibility and allows for more varied combinations, renewing the gaming experience with each game. Add to this the memory system, which rewards players loyal to a leader with new bonuses each session, and you have a real incentive for replayability.

Finally, the new influence-based diplomatic system adds an interesting dynamic to interactions with other civilizations and city-states. It allows players to negotiate their alliances and rivalries more finely.

Frustrating simplifications and questionable choices

While certain innovations are convincing, several key elements have been simplified or removed, which could put off long-time players.

Firstly, the reduction in the number of illustrious characters limits the strategic possibilities that were the charm of previous opuses. Secondly, scouts can no longer explore automatically, making the start of the game more cumbersome.

Themodern era stops abruptly at rockets, with no perspective on contemporary technologies such as artificial intelligence, robots or the Internet. This considerably reduces the richness of the late-game.

Another black mark is the removal of the "extra turn" after reaching a victory condition. In previous opuses, this allowed players to continue the game and exploit their empire to the full. Now, the end is imposed, which can be frustrating.

Finally, the user interface could do with some serious ergonomic work. Some essential information is hard to find, and even the Civilopedia, which is supposed to guide players, proves to be of little use.

Verdict: a bold opus that deserves its place

Civilization VII offers a refreshing experience that renews the formula while preserving the DNA of the series. Certain mechanics bring a breath of fresh air, such as Ages and leader flexibility, making each game unique and dynamic. However, some questionable choices, such as the simplification of certain strategic aspects and the disappearance of the 'extra turn', may frustrate series veterans. Despite these shortcomings, the opus remains solid and will appeal to new players and regulars alike, thanks to its modernized, accessible approach. The evolution of the Ages and the flexibility of the leaders offer great depth, but certain simplifications and deletions tarnish the overall experience.

Trailer for Sid Meier's Civilization VII:

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From February 13, 2025 to August 13, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.
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