TheCivilizationfranchise burst onto the scene in 1991, delivering an award-winning strategy formula off the bat. One of the first pioneers ofthe 4X strategy genre,Civilizationsaw players take control of a historical figure and lead their real-world nation to prosperity, achieving victory either by conquering all other nations or by winning the space race. That generalCivilizationformula has remained largely the same for over three decades, with each entry adding new mechanics like victory conditions, leader abilities, and units. ButCivilization 7is shaking things up a bit more than usual.
ThoughCivilization 7’s gameplay loop will still see players choose a historical figure and lead a nation to victory, the steps in between have never been so different.Civilization 7is making some significant tweaks and additions to the series' tried and tested formula, and as such, a pre-release demo might be a good marketing strategy.
The Argument For Civilization 7 to Get a Demo
A Civilization 7 Demo Could Let Fans Test Out The New Formula
Civilization 7is completely revamping how game progression works. While players will still choose a historical leader, they no longer take control of just one nation. Instead, players will choose a new Civilization to lead every time they reach a new Age. For instance, players can assume the role of Emperor Augustus as he leads Rome in the Antiquity Age. Then he can lead theNormans in the Exploration Age, and the French Empire in the Modern Age, all of which have unique units and abilities suited towards their respective Ages.
This major change toCivilization 7’s match progression is by far the biggest revamp in the upcoming sequel, but it’s far from the only alteration to the formula. Long-time fans can also expect some major changes regardingCivilization 7’s diplomacy system, army building, city improvements, and map terrain.
These changes are a lot for long-timeCivilizationfans to get to grips with, and naturally, many fans are skeptical of so many drastic alterations to the long-standing formula. This is where afree demo forCivilization 7could come in, giving fans a taste of the new formula and hopefully reassuring them that the changes being made are worthwhile.
This demo would also give developer Firaxis an opportunity to hear some feedback from fans before the game’s February launch, giving it just enough time to tweak some potential balancing issues before release.
A Civilization 7 Demo Could Give Newcomers an Introduction
While long-time fans might need a little convincing to embraceCivilization 7’s new formula, the primary purpose of a pre-release demo is to give the gaming world at large a taste of the experience, and hopefully entice them into buying the full product.
WithCivilization 7being the first series entry to release simultaneously on consoles and PC, it’s clear that Firaxis is wanting to target as large of a market as possible. A free demo is a surefire way to get the game in the hands of those who wouldn’t necessarily pay for it, and if the demo makes a strong enough impression, it could convince those players to part with their hard-earned money.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
WHERE TO PLAY
The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter.Sid Meier’s Civilization® VIIempowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!InCivilization VII, your strategic decisions shape the unique cultural lineage of your evolving empire. Rule as one of many legendary leaders from throughout history and steer the course of your story by choosing a new civilization to represent your empire in each Age of human advancement.Construct cities and architectural wonders to expand your territory, improve your civilization with technological breakthroughs, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations as you explore the far reaches of the unknown world. Pursue prosperity in an immersive solo experience or play with others in online multiplayer.Whether you choose to follow a path rooted in history or reimagine possibilities to chart your own way forward, build something you believe in and create a legacy that echoes through the Ages inCivilization VII.
