Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 is navigating a challenging landscape that falls short of the developer Firaxis’s initial expectations for success. A recent sign of this setback is the postponement of upcoming downloadable content (DLC) in order to prioritize essential updates and bug fixes for the existing game. While prioritizing quality over quantity is undoubtedly a wise decision, it raises questions about the extensive plans for DLC, considering the current state of the base game.
It’s not uncommon for new installments in the Civilization series to receive a mixed reception upon release; similar criticisms were directed at both Civ 5 and Civ 6 at their launches. However, the reception for Civilization 7 appears to be more severe compared to its predecessors. While earlier titles experienced complaints about feeling unfinished, neither Civ 5 nor Civ 6 left players grappling with as many issues at launch as Civ 7 does. This context supports Firaxis’s decision to concentrate on resolving existing game problems before rolling out any additional content.
Delaying Right To Rule Helps Civ 7 Focus On Fixes
Civilization 7’s Next Paid DLC Is Delayed in Favor of Updates and Fixes
As detailed in the latest update on Civilization 7’s official site, the much-anticipated Right to Rule Collection DLC has been postponed. This decision allows developers to address pressing issues within the game, such as rebalancing resource distribution across continents and enhancing the value of Food through adjustments in Population growth dynamics. Notably, players can look forward to a new feature that permits gameplay continuation after achieving a victory. Additional enhancements include quality-of-life improvements like a “Repair All” function within Settlements and unspecified user interface (UI) updates.
It’s encouraging to witness the development team focusing on essential changes within Civilization 7. Given the lackluster reception following the launch of the Crossroads of the World Collection DLC, many players are likely to accept this delay as a necessary step for improvement. However, it remains evident that significant work lies ahead to elevate the game’s overall experience to a level that justifies new, paid content.
Civ 7 Still Has A Lot of Basic Changes to Make
Civ 7 Still Faces Numerous UI Challenges That Are Potentially Fixable
Identifying which inherent flaws in Civilization 7 can be addressed versus those that are deeply ingrained can prove challenging for players. For example, while some may find the linearity of Civ 7’s Legacy Paths limiting, it’s unlikely these elements will be completely eliminated from the gameplay experience. Instead, players may hope for increased flexibility, introducing more nuanced pathways to victory.
Conversely, aspects like the convoluted UI and the incomplete Civilopedia represent areas ripe for improvement. In addition to necessary fixes, Civilization 7 desperately requires supplementary free content to complement its $70 base price, especially before introducing paid DLC. The announcement of new maps and diverse map sizes in the recent Update Check-In serves as a promising development, hinting that additional free enhancements might soon follow. Many players find it disheartening to see paid actions when it feels they’ve already invested too much in an incomplete product.
Launching Incomplete Games with Planned DLC Is Frustrating
It’s Difficult to Justify Paying Extra for a Game That Isn’t Completed
First and foremost, let me clarify that I do not oppose the concept of paid DLC or even its pre-launch planning. Should a developer require additional monetization avenues to maintain a lower base price, then I prefer optional paid DLC over restrictive microtransactions or subscription models. Nevertheless, the decision to plan paid DLC before the game’s release becomes frustrating when the delivered product feels unfinished.
It’s universally understood that nobody wants to invest full price in a game lacking completion. In my view, spending $70 or more should guarantee a fully functional, polished game experience, which is not what Civ 7 currently provides. Coupled with the disappointing offerings in the previous DLC, Crossroads of the World Collection—which felt quite sparse—it’s easy to see why fans are dissatisfied. For $30, roughly half the price of a full game, receiving only two Leaders, four Civilizations, and a handful of Natural Wonders seems underwhelming, especially when the foundational game still faces unresolved issues.
In conclusion, I believe that it’s a prudent strategy for Civilization 7‘s team to hold off on introducing further paid DLC until the game has been adequately refined. If and when future content is released, it will ideally surpass the previous offerings. Otherwise, the value of purchasing additional DLC may be reconsidered by players until significant discounts are offered.
Source: Civilization 7