"Take-Two CEO Optimistic About 'Legacy' Fans Embracing Civilization 7 Despite Mixed Steam Reviews"

Civilization 7 has hit the market, garnering a 'mixed' user review rating on Steam. However, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick remains optimistic, believing that the game's dedicated fanbase will grow to appreciate it over time.

Currently, Civilization 7 is accessible to those who opt for advanced access, a group often comprised of the series' most ardent followers. These players have been vocal on Steam, expressing concerns about the user interface, limited map variety, and the absence of expected features at launch.

In response, Firaxis has committed to enhancing the user experience. They plan to improve the UI, introduce team-based multiplayer options for cooperative play, and expand the range of available map types, among other enhancements.

In a recent interview with IGN, Zelnick acknowledged the mixed reception, including a notably low 2/5 review from Eurogamer. Despite this, he highlighted the game's solid Metacritic score of 81 and the positive feedback from over 20 reviews scoring above 90. Zelnick is confident that as players spend more time with Civilization 7, their initial reservations will give way to appreciation for the game's innovations.

Zelnick believes Civ fans will come to love Civ 7. Photographer: Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg via Getty Images.

One of the significant changes in Civilization 7 is the introduction of an Age system, spanning Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern Ages. At the end of each Age, players undergo an Age Transition, selecting a new civilization, retaining certain Legacies, and witnessing the evolution of the game world. This novel mechanic, unprecedented in the series, is a testament to Firaxis's ambition to push boundaries, which Zelnick believes will ultimately win over fans.

In the immediate future, Firaxis faces the challenge of improving sentiment, especially on Steam, where user review ratings significantly impact a game's visibility and success. By addressing the community's feedback and implementing promised updates, Firaxis aims to turn the tide and solidify Civilization 7's place in the hearts of its fans.