In Sid Meier’s Civilization 7, Firaxis has opted to introduce a game-changer with its innovative three-age structure. Unlike previous installments where players navigated through various eras on a singular, expansive tech tree, this time they advance through history collectively. Each age comes with its own distinct tech and civic trees, offering unique gameplay mechanics. This fresh approach offers an entirely different experience—something never seen in the franchise before. However, while the introduction of ages is a captivating change, it feels like there’s a missing piece.
Currently, games wrap up at the end of the third age, the Modern Age, where you might reach the stars, defeat neighboring civilizations, establish a dominant culture, or build an economic powerhouse. While this conclusion aligns with what fans expect from Civilization, it often feels as though a fourth age could have provided a more cohesive closure. Such an addition would not only offer players more content to explore but also seems like a natural fit within the existing framework.
Interestingly, it almost seems as if Civilization 7 was originally designed with the idea of four ages in mind. Ending at the Modern Age might be the current format, but certain signs suggest otherwise. At the conclusion of this age, players receive Legacy Points on the standard age transition page. These are earned according to how deep players delve into the Legacy Paths and are typically used to obtain special perks for subsequent ages. It’s curious that these points would be awarded at the end when there’s no following age to utilize them.
Moreover, some observant players have noted that buildings unique to Modern Age civilizations are referred to as ageless. While this could just be a consistency measure by Firaxis to ensure ongoing relevance, there’s something odd about needing buildings that are ageless in an era that marks the game’s conclusion. These structures won’t disappear regardless of the outcome, as the game wraps up once the age ends.
There’s also a sense that Civilization 7 is missing some of its iconic elements due to the absence of a fourth age. Because the Science Victory concludes with the first staffed space mission, technology from the actual modern era and beyond isn’t fully explored. Features like giant death robots, a World Congress, or the clear presence of nuclear warfare are noticeably absent. While they’re not absolutely necessary, their inclusion would enrich the gaming experience.
The lack of a fourth age gives the game’s finale an abruptness that contrasts with previous editions, particularly with the more structured Legacy Paths dictating player actions. Adding a fourth age could smooth this transition, providing a grand and engaging conclusion. By introducing imaginative new mechanisms inspired by future themes, Firaxis could allow players to engage with advanced technology and add another exciting layer to the game. If it integrates well with the existing ages, this could be exactly the enhancement that Civilization 7 needs.
As we reflect on the game as a whole, it’s clear that this installment in the Civilization series continues to invite strategic thinkers to build powerful empires from various historical epochs. It’s a title that not only boasts immersive gameplay but also encourages players to develop their legacy through strategic decisions, whether played solo or in multiplayer mode. With the potential for further expansion, players remain hopeful for future updates that could bring even more depth to this beloved series.
