Sid Meier's Civilization franchise returns this fall with a fifth installment, featuring hexagon tile maps, a new combat system, deeper diplomatic options, and a community hub where players can share content and compete without leaving the game.
Civilization marches on relentlessly in the fifth installment of the classic strategy series, published by 2K Games and developed by the team at Firaxis. Civilization V features a completely new game engine, allowing for lush, organic landscapes unlike anything seen in the series previously.
With the new engine comes a new combat system, which might separate the casual Civ player from the hardcore. The new hexagon tiles scream war gaming to me, and that's not traditionally a genre for the stay-at-home mom. The new system promises more strategic options in battle, with new elements such as ranged bombardment sure to make combat much more interesting than it has been in the past.
More peaceful players should be pleased by the inclusion of fully animated leaders and deeper diplomatic options, while players seeking online interaction need look no further than the game's player hub, where community-created content can be swapped and multiplayer matches launched.
"Each new version of Civilization presents exciting challenges for our team," said Sid Meier, director of creative development at Firaxis Games. "Thankfully, ideas on how to bring new and fun experiences to Civ players never seem to stop flowing. From fully animated leaders and realistic landscapes, new combat tactics, expanded diplomacy and shared mods, we're excited for players to see the new vision our team at Firaxis has brought to the series."
It sounds rather intense, but what of the more casual Civ players?
"In addition to Civilization V, Firaxis Games is also currently developing Sid Meier's Civilization Network, a Civ game for Facebook. With Sid Meier leading design, Civilization Network will offer yet another option for world domination to both the casual gamer and the biggest fans of the series. It's another way to access the famously addictive world of Civilization."
It looks like Firaxis is going in two different directions with the Civilization franchise. Which side will you be on?