"Civilization VII's" mixed reviews on Steam and the recent backlash about its UI are enough for Firaxis to evaluate the right direction for the game. Well, dataminers are sneaky to confirm that there could be a potential addition of the "Fourth Age."
Even though there's no official word from Firaxis about this leak, we can assume that, judging from its recent statement, a game expansion has a big chance of happening soon.
'Civilization VII's' Three-Age Structure
In its current form, "Civilization VII" follows a structured campaign that spans three Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Each Age transition occurs simultaneously for all players, allowing them to choose new civilizations, retain certain Legacies, and witness the game world evolve.
This is quite different from the previous "Civilization" installments especially when the newest one is leaning on a more structured historical progression, IGN reports.
At present, the Modern Age concludes before the Cold War, aligning with the historical timeline set by Firaxis. Lead designer Ed Beach explained in an interview with IGN that the team carefully analyzed historical shifts to define the game's chapters, ensuring major global events shaped the transition points between Ages.
Beach said, "Once we knew that our game would benefit by breaking it up into chapters, obviously the first thing we ask ourselves is, 'well, when does a chapter start and when does a chapter end?' And our senior historian on the project, Andrew Johnson, was working very closely with me, comes from a study of Southeast Asian history. "
Why 'Civilization VII' Ends at World War II
Beach elaborated on how the design team determined the ending of each Age:
- Antiquity (Ends around 300-500 CE): This era marks the fall of major empires across Rome, China, and India due to external pressures, making it a natural transition point.
- Exploration to Modern Transition: The era of monarchy faced challenges from revolutionary movements like the French and American Revolutions, leading to the emergence of modern nation-states.
- Modern Age (Ends in 1945): The World Wars provided a definitive moment of global restructuring. The team chose not to extend into the Cold War, as its dynamics were markedly different from previous conflicts.
Beach also confirmed that game mechanics such as diplomacy, warfare, and leader abilities are redefined with each Age, reinforcing the decision to cap the Modern Age at World War II.
Is a 'Fourth Age' Coming?
With "Civilization VII's" structured timeline, some of us might be thinking if the "Fourth Age" DLC or expansion is possible.
While the developers have not officially confirmed it, Executive Producer Dennis Shirk dropped a major hint, stating that the whole team is coming up with all visuals and systems about that age.
Dataminers Uncover the 'Atomic Age'
Shortly after Firaxis' interview, "Civilization VII" players with early access unearthed references to a mysterious "Atomic Age."
Reddit user ManByTheRiver11 revealed files mentioning unannounced leaders, civilizations, and this potential fourth Age.
Given the structured approach Firaxis has taken, an Atomic Age would fit seamlessly as a continuation of the Modern Age. It could introduce key historical moments like the Space Race, the Cold War, and even early digital advancements.
Firaxis Responds to Community Criticism
"Civilization VII" early previews made it appear to be the best entry in the franchise. However, Steam reviews of the game suggest Firaxis should know what needs to be fixed.
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick acknowledged these reviews but remained optimistic, stating that the core Civilization audience would appreciate the game more as they continue playing. He also described "Civilization 7's" initial performance as "very encouraging."
