Take-Two: Civilization Fans Will Embrace Civ 7 Despite Negative Feedback

Civilization 7's rocky launch hasn't deterred Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, who remains confident in its long-term success. Despite a "mixed" Steam user review rating, Zelnick believes the game's core fanbase will ultimately embrace the title.

The game's early access release, primarily accessed by dedicated Civilization players, has seen criticism focusing on the user interface (UI), limited map variety, and a perceived lack of expected features. Firaxis has acknowledged this feedback, promising UI improvements, the addition of cooperative multiplayer teams, and more diverse map options.

Zelnick, in an interview with IGN, acknowledged negative reviews, including Eurogamer's harsh 2/5 score, but highlighted the positive Metacritic score of 81 and numerous reviews exceeding 90. He attributed the negative feedback to the significant changes introduced in Civilization 7, suggesting that the "legacy Civ audience" will adapt and appreciate the game's innovations with increased playtime.

Zelnick specifically referenced the novel Age Transition system as a source of initial apprehension. Civilization 7's campaign unfolds across three Ages (Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern), with simultaneous Age Transitions for all players involving civilization selection, Legacy retention, and world evolution—a departure from previous Civilization titles.

While Zelnick expresses optimism, Firaxis faces the challenge of improving player sentiment, particularly on Steam. The Steam user review rating significantly impacts the game's visibility and success on the platform. Therefore, addressing the identified issues is crucial for a positive shift in player perception.