Civilization VII's launch has garnered a "mixed" reception on Steam, yet Take-Two's CEO remains confident that dedicated fans will ultimately embrace the game. Currently available through early access, primarily to hardcore Civilization enthusiasts, the game has faced criticism regarding its user interface, limited map variety, and perceived missing features.
Firaxis has acknowledged this feedback, promising UI improvements, the addition of cooperative multiplayer teams, and a broader range of map types.
In an interview with IGN, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick acknowledged negative reviews, including Eurogamer's 2/5 score, but highlighted the game's 81 Metacritic score and numerous reviews exceeding 90. He believes the initial apprehension among long-time fans stems from the significant changes implemented in Civilization VII. He predicts that continued gameplay will lead to a more positive reception.
Zelnick points to the game's unique Age Transition system as a key example of these changes. A full campaign spans Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern Ages. Upon completing an Age, all players simultaneously transition, selecting a new civilization, choosing retained Legacies, and witnessing world evolution—a novel feature in the Civilization series.
While Zelnick expresses optimism for the game's long-term success, Firaxis faces the immediate challenge of improving player sentiment, particularly on Steam. The Steam user review rating significantly impacts the game's visibility and overall success on the platform.
