The Civilization series, renowned for its depth, can be quite daunting for newcomers. As a quintessential 4X (explore, expand, exploit, exterminate) strategy game, it presents players with a multitude of tasks in every single turn. Players need to manage unit movements, keep track of technological advancements, optimize production lines, establish trade routes, engage in espionage, explore both land and sea, and conduct diplomatic negotiations with various world leaders. This overwhelming complexity may deter those who are new to this genre.
Historically, the Civilization games have adeptly introduced these intertwined mechanics through an innovative “show, don’t tell”method. Key tutorials are woven directly into gameplay instead of existing in a separate instructional mode.*Civilization 7* advances this approach with even more comprehensive guidance, instilling an emphasis on accessibility throughout its design, including its revamped Age system.
How *Civilization 7*’s New Age System Caters to Novice Players
Step-by-Step Progression Through *Civilization 7’s* Ages
Matches in *Civilization* can unfold over several hours, and previous iterations offered limited breaks for players to regroup. This often necessitated a continuous commitment from start to finish, compelling players to come equipped with a comprehensive strategy from the outset, executing it without deviation until the game concluded.
Players had to navigate an intricate landscape, determining the optimal research paths for technologies, the placement and deployment of military units, and the construction of vital buildings and Wonders to secure victory systematically. For newcomers, this steep learning curve could make initial playthroughs feel increasingly like a series of trial-and-error attempts.
The introduction of the Age system in *Civilization 7* alleviates much of this pressure, allowing for a more manageable experience. Each game is divided into three distinct Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. While veteran players may still strategize from the onset, new players are encouraged to concentrate on the current Age.
Instead of being tasked with a singular long-term goal, players will focus on achieving specific Legacy Path objectives within the Age they are currently navigating. This sharpens their focus and prevents feeling overwhelmed, especially beneficial for those just beginning their *Civilization* journey.
As players advance through the Ages, the game’s intricacies unfold gradually. In the Antiquity Age, the primary focus is on local interactions and familiarizing oneself with rival leaders. During this Age, new elements like Crises, Civics, and trade routes are sequentially introduced, easing players into the game’s complexities. The Exploration Age expands horizons, promoting exploration of unknown territories and interactions with new leaders while integrating additional mechanics like religion.
Fresh Starts Through the Ages in *Civilization 7*
The Age system also permits ample opportunities for learning from mistakes. At the conclusion of an Age, players experience certain resets, including changes to the available Legacy Paths. If things didn’t pan out in the Antiquity Age, the transition to the Exploration Age provides a clean slate, allowing players to alter their strategies. This reset feature is particularly beneficial in multiplayer scenarios, where players may be engaged in lengthy matches spanning several hours.
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