best games online

A review of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, the first game in the franchise since 2016

Home » blog » A review of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, the first game in the franchise since 2016

After eight years of anticipation, the release of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII has become one of the most significant events in the world of turn-based strategy games. The series, which set the standards for the 4X genre, is once again capturing the attention of fans with its updated gameplay, redesigned era system, and expanded civilizations development options. The developers have promised to reimagine key mechanics, improve the balance of victory tactics, and update the interface to make it more accessible for beginners while maintaining its depth for experienced players.

Epochs and the Development of Civilization: Key Changes

One of the main innovations of the project is the updated approach to eras. Now the development of states has become more flexible: civilizations adapt to historical realities, changing their playstyle depending on events. For example, if a country is actively waging war, the economy receives bonuses to military production, but diplomatic relations suffer.

Additional mechanics:

  1. Flexible epochal transitions — countries can linger in certain time periods, focusing on improving specific technologies and structures.
  2. The impact on the world — the development of one country can directly change the balance of power on the global map, causing golden ages or, conversely, crises.
  3. Cultural characteristics — each civilization now has unique paths of modernization that can lead to unexpected strategies for victory.

War and Diplomacy: An Overview of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Battle Mechanics

Military campaigns have become more sophisticated thanks to the updated siege system and strategic troop placement. Battlefields now take into account terrain, climate, and even army morale.

Features:

  1. Siege operations — cities can no longer be captured instantly; instead, they must be weakened gradually using siege engines.
  2. Battle Generals – a system of leaders has been added that gives bonuses to troops and can change the tactical situation on the battlefield.
  3. Guerrilla warfare is the ability to create underground units to carry out sabotage in enemy territory.

War now requires a more subtle approach: without proper supply and logistics, even the strongest army risks losing.

Ways to win: a variety of strategies

Continuing our review of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, it’s worth mentioning the conditions for winning battles, which have also undergone significant changes. Now, players can win not only through scientific, military, or cultural superiority, but also through their influence on global processes.

The main paths to victory include:

  1. Military: complete destruction of enemies or domination over most territories.
  2. Scientific — achieving technological superiority, including space exploration and quantum technologies.
  3. Cultural influence on other civilizations through art, religion, and diplomatic alliances.
  4. The economic goal is to create a powerful trading empire with control over key markets.
  5. Environmental: the development of environmentally friendly technologies, minimizing environmental damage, and preventing global disasters.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Interface Review: Convenience or a Step Back?

Firaxis Games has made an effort to make the interface more intuitive. Civilization VII features a new tooltip system, an updated technology tree, and a redesigned map.

Key changes:

  1. Flexible control panel – key information is now more conveniently located, reducing the need to switch between tabs.
  2. Visual cues: When players hover over map elements, they receive more information without having to open additional windows.
  3. Automation of routine processes — some elements of city management are now automated.

Some players noted that the simplification of the interface led to a loss of depth, so it took some time for series veterans to get used to it.

Civilization VII Graphics: How Far Has the Game Come?

The visual style of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, according to an expert review, has become more detailed but retains the distinctive style of previous games. The developers have updated unit models, city textures, and environmental effects.

Graphical improvements:

  1. Detailed models of buildings and troops — each structure now reflects the cultural characteristics of a nation.
  2. Dynamic lighting and weather effects — the climate affects the appearance of the map and can change players’ strategic plans.
  3. Increased animation detail — diplomats now express emotions, and battles look more spectacular.

Despite the improvements, Civilization VII does not require powerful PCs — the game is well-optimized even for mid-range configurations.

A review of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII bugs and technical issues

As with any large-scale strategy game, the first versions of Civilization VII were not without their share of bugs. Players faced a number of issues:

  1. Incorrect AI operation — computer opponents sometimes made illogical decisions.
  2. Diplomatic mistakes — artificial intelligence could suddenly break alliances for no apparent reason.
  3. Graphic artifacts are rare bugs in unit animations.

The developers promptly released several patches, fixing most of the technical issues.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII: Reviews and Ratings

Game publications have positively evaluated the new part of the series. The average rating on Metacritic is 88/100, and among users – 8.5/10.

Pros:

  1. Deep and diverse gameplay.
  2. Improved system of eras and civilizations.
  3. Good optimization and user-friendly interface.

Minuses:

  1. The need to get used to new mechanics.
  2. Some bugs at the start.
  3. Diplomatic AI needs improvement.

Is it worth buying Civilization VII?

The review of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII showed that the game offers diverse and well-thought-out gameplay, new era mechanics, flexible development strategies, and excellent replayability. If the goal is a deep strategic session that can keep you engaged for dozens of hours, the concept is definitely worth considering. Despite the initial bugs, Firaxis Games continues to refine the project, and it already looks like a worthy successor to the franchise.

Related posts

In the Dota 2 universe, the carry role is often associated with lethal force and the ability to change the outcome of a match at the most critical moments. But which heroes are capable of taking on such responsibility? Which fighters can really lift a team to the top?

TOP carries in Dota 2: heroes that change the game

Take a closer look at them if you want to start winning more often.

Phantom Assassin – a strong carry

A heroine who can be called an ideal killer. Her main goal is destruction, and she does this task with flying colors thanks to her Crit (Coup de Grace) ability. Phantom Assassin is perfect for those who prefer an aggressive style, where it is important to quickly deal with enemies.

Abilities:

  1. Blur – an ability that allows you to avoid enemy attacks and unexpectedly attack the enemy.
  2. Blink Strike – incredible mobility, with which she teleports to the target and strikes.
  3. Coup de Grace is her signature critical strike that can take down an enemy in an instant.
  4. Weapons and items: Battle Fury and Satanic are two key items that make Phantom Assassin a true fighting machine.

Anti-Mage is the most mobile carry in Dota 2

A true master of mobility, he specializes in quickly destroying mages, turning their mana into his own power. If you want to feel complete freedom of movement on the map, avoid traps and enemy pursuit, then Anti-Mage is the perfect choice. His Blink ability allows him to instantly teleport, making him virtually elusive and always ready to attack or retreat.

With Mana Break, he destroys enemy mana reserves and turns mages into defenseless targets. And his ultimate ability Mana Void can detonate the enemy’s remaining mana, causing massive damage that can turn the tide of battle in one second. Anti-Mage is not only a character, but also a philosophy of speed and control. He is able to bypass all dangers and attack when enemies least expect it.

Anti-Mage’s abilities:

  1. Blink is a short-range teleport that makes him almost elusive.
  2. Mana Break is a passive ability that burns the enemy’s mana with each hit.
  3. Mana Void is an ultimate that deals damage depending on the target’s mana deficiency.
  4. Weapons and artifacts: Manta Style and Abyssal Blade are key artifacts for Anti-Mage, allowing him to be as effective as possible.

Wraith King is a carry with good survivability

Wraith King is famous for his incredible survivability thanks to his Reincarnation ability. His power lies in the ability to literally rise from the dead and continue the battle. Simple but very effective mechanics make Wraith King a great option for those just starting to get acquainted with Dota 2. He has a large amount of health and the ability to tank damage, which allows him to stay on the front line even in the most tense situations.

Wraithfire Blast stun also helps to keep enemies in place, and the passive ability Vampiric Spirit allows you to restore health, ensuring stable survivability in combat.

Wraith King capabilities:

  1. Reincarnation – when killed, Wraith King is restored and returns to the fight.
  2. Vampiric Spirit is a passive ability that allows you to restore health with each hit.
  3. Wraithfire Blast is a stun that deals damage and slows the enemy.
  4. Weapons and artifacts: Radiance and Black King Bar are items that increase Wraith King’s survivability and damage.

Sven — a Dota 2 Carry with high damage

A true destroyer: he is capable of dealing colossal area damage, thanks to his powerful abilities and well-chosen artifacts. His power is especially felt in team fights, where he can change the outcome of the battle with one blow.

Sven can instantly rush into battle, stun a mass of enemies and bring down all his power on them. He is indispensable in battles where initiation and causing mass damage are important.

Sven’s capabilities:

  1. God’s Strength — an ability that significantly increases physical damage.
  2. Storm Hammer — an ability that allows you to stun enemies in an area and deal damage.
  3. Warcry — a buff that increases the armor and speed of allies.
  4. Weapons and artifacts: Daedalus and Echo Sabre — make Sven even more dangerous, increasing his physical damage.

Juggernaut is the perfect solo carry in Dota 2

A virtuoso of a single-player game. The character is ideal for those who want to take matters into their own hands and rely only on their own power. Thanks to the ability Blade Fury (immunity to magic), he deals significant area damage, and Healing Ward (restoring health not only to himself, but also to allies), Juggernaut is able to not only survive in the most dangerous situations, but also help his comrades.

A powerful ultimate Omnislash allows you to instantly deal with key targets, making him one of the most dangerous heroes in the late stages of the game. Juggernaut is the embodiment of strength and survival, when every battle is a chance to show your maximum potential.

Juggernaut’s capabilities:

  1. Blade Fury is an ability that makes him immune to magic and deals damage in an area.
  2. Healing Ward is a cure that can restore health to the entire squad.
  3. Omnislash is an ultimate that deals a series of quick strikes to one or more enemies.
  4. Weapons and items: Butterfly and Aghanim’s Scepter are key items for Juggernaut, making him extremely durable and dangerous.
  5. How to play the best carries in Dota 2: tips and strategies

Starting out can seem quite challenging, especially if you’ve chosen a responsible role. It’s important not only to farm effectively, but also to clearly understand when to join fights in order to provide maximum support to your team. Carry players like Wraith King should focus on mastering basic mechanics, farming, and participating in teamfights in a timely manner to get the most out of them. Wraith King is especially good due to his ability to reincarnate, which forgives mistakes and allows him to maintain pressure on the enemy even after losing a fight.

Tips for beginners:

  1. Focus on farming in the first 15 minutes of the game.
  2. Actively use the ultimate to survive and support the team.
  3. Item build: Armlet, Radiance, Black King Bar — ideal for Wraith King.
  4. Carry for a newbie team: Luna and her AoE power

One of the best heroes for those who want to prove themselves in both solo fights and massive team clashes. Thanks to Eclipse, which releases powerful magic beams, and Moon Glaives, which allows you to attack several targets at once, Luna can deal damage to both one enemy and a whole group of opponents.

The abilities allow you to effectively deal with crowds of enemies, as well as quickly destroy forest creeps. This speeds up farming and makes the heroine a real threat to enemies in the middle and late stages of the session.

Luna’s capabilities:

  1. Moon Glaives — allows you to attack several targets at once.
  2. Eclipse — an ultimate ability that releases many beams that deal magic damage.
  3. Lunar Blessing — a buff that increases the damage of allies at night.
  4. Weapons and items: Manta Style and Butterfly – help Luna quickly destroy enemies and increase survivability.

Conclusion

Choosing a carry in Dota 2 is a decision that can affect the entire game and give the team a chance to win. Whether it’s Phantom Assassin with her huge damage or Luna with team support, it’s important to choose someone who fits your style and strategy. Study the heroes carefully, try different Dota 2 carry builds, and let all your efforts lead to victory.

The era when every mouse click determined the outcome of the battle left unforgettable memories in the hearts of gamers. Old strategies on PC became a platform where dreams of great tactical victories and strategic decisions came true. These games raised an entire generation, taught them to build logical chains and predict the enemy’s actions.

Today, we will remember the cult strategies that have become real legends, and make a detailed review of each of them. We will dive into the stories of creation, gameplay and unique features to experience nostalgia for the games and a real desire to go back and play again.

Command & Conquer: the war that everyone remembers

Command & Conquer from Westwood Studios raised the genre of real-time strategies to new heights. The release took place in 1995, and it became a real breakthrough. The plot was based on the confrontation between two factions: GDI and Brotherhood of Nod. Players were immersed in the atmosphere of covert operations, waged wars for Tiberium resources, and this is what gave Command & Conquer a unique sense of strategic depth. Command & Conquer demonstrated that every battle could become part of a complex political and resource struggle.

Gameplay and innovative mechanics

Command & Conquer’s gameplay was revolutionary due to its emphasis on resource management and base building. Players mined Tiberium and used it to create an army, develop technologies and strengthen positions. The combat system, with a large selection of units – from infantry to heavy armored vehicles, became one of the most developed at that time.

Age of Empires II: a real time machine

Age of Empires II from Ensemble Studios was released in 1999 and immediately became the standard of the retro strategy genre. The concept immersed in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and allowed you to choose a civilization from an extensive list, including Vikings, Mongols, English and even Japanese. Each had its own unique features and units, which gave historical authenticity and involvement in the process. The developers managed to recreate the realities of the past with love for detail.

Development, construction and battles

The gameplay of Age of Empires II was based on the balance between economic development and military operations. Exfcnybr started with a small settlement and sought to build a powerful empire. The old strategy of the 90s on PC required the ability to competently manage resources – wood, gold, stone and food. Users studied technologies, built fortifications, recruited troops and went on campaigns. The key to victory was the ability to adapt to the enemy’s style of play and use your strengths.

Strategy teaches history

One of the main features of Age of Empires II was its educational component. Campaigns dedicated to Joan of Arc, William the Conqueror, Saladin and other famous historical figures allowed us to learn more about the events of the past. People discovered great battles and feats, and this made the gameplay not only exciting, but also educational.

Starcraft: Space Race

Starcraft by Blizzard Entertainment, released in 1998, became the founder of the eSports movement. Here you had to choose between three unique races: Terrans, Zerks and Protoss. Each had its own philosophy and style of combat. Old real-time strategies on PC, like Starcraft, literally turned the idea of ​​what competitions could be like on its head, because it did not forgive mistakes, required maximum concentration and perfect knowledge of your own and others’ capabilities.

Brutal pace and culture of winners

Starcraft is still called one of the most difficult strategies. Players mastered microcontrol, trained their reaction speed, and developed multi-layered tactics. In eSports, this game has become a symbol of skill and dedication. The best strategies of all time acquire cult status thanks to the emotions and challenges they offer. Starcraft became a real test of the mind and reaction.

Heroes of Might & Magic III: a legend of tactical fantasy

Heroes of Might & Magic III by New World Computing, released in 1999, became the standard for turn-based strategies and captured the hearts of millions. Here, players controlled heroes, explored magical lands, fought opponents, and collected artifacts.

Armies, heroes and artifacts

In Heroes of Might & Magic III, each army consisted of various creatures – from simple shooters to mighty dragons. Heroes had unique abilities that strengthened armies and gave an advantage in battle. Cult old strategies on PC often admired complex systems of pumping and interaction of units, and Heroes of Might & Magic III was no exception. Artifacts played an important role: they strengthened heroes, added new abilities and often became a key factor in victory.

Army and features:

  1. Archers: the main combat unit, capable of inflicting damage from a distance, which gave a significant advantage in the initial phases of the battle.
  2. Cavalry: fast units with high mobility and the ability to break into the enemy’s rear, causing critical damage.
  3. Mages: had unique spells that could change the course of the battle, weakening the enemy or strengthening allies.
  4. Dragons: powerful units with high attack and defense stats, their appearance on the battlefield often became a decisive factor.
  5. Heroes: each hero had their own abilities and skills, which made them a key figure in battle tactics. They not only strengthened the army, but could also use magical artifacts to achieve superiority.

Artifacts

  1. Hero weapons: increased damage and added special abilities for attacks.
  2. Protective amulets: increased the army’s defensive stats, reducing damage taken.
  3. Magic books: gave heroes new spells, which allowed them to adapt tactics depending on the enemy.
  4. Rings and signet rings: increased the amount of health of units or added additional abilities, such as health regeneration.

Timeless classics – this is how you can call Heroes of Might & Magic III. Players still return to the project, thanks to its enchanting atmosphere, well-thought-out maps and opportunities for tactical experiments. Campaigns, cooperative mode and multiplayer battles ensured the concept a long life and the love of fans.

Civilization II: the path from nomads to interstellar colonies

Civilization II, released in 1996, was a continuation of the legendary series from Sid Meier. The old strategy was suitable even for weak PCs: it allowed you to build a civilization, starting with nomadic tribes and ending with interstellar expeditions. Gradual development from ancient times to modern times, researching technologies and creating a cultural heritage made Civilization II incredibly exciting.

Diplomacy and strategic alliances

Users could:

  1. Join alliances to strengthen positions and create powerful coalitions.
  2. Conclude peace treaties to avoid unnecessary conflicts and focus on economic development.
  3. Conspiracy and use spies to obtain information about the plans of opponents and destroy their alliances.

The AI ​​offered interesting challenges, and each game became unique due to unstable diplomatic relations. The ability to use diplomacy and the ability to strategically assess the situation gave a great advantage on the global map.

Nostalgia for great eras

Nostalgia for the game brings back Civilization II again and again. The construction of wonders of the world, great campaigns and the first space programs have forever remained in the hearts of fans. The project taught the importance of planning, patience and the ability to adapt to change. The game remains one of the favorite strategies for those who are looking not only for entertainment, but also for a way to learn more about the development of civilizations.

Conclusion

Old strategies on PC continue to be a model of tactical depth and innovation. The projects laid down standards that modern developers are trying to surpass to this day.

Remembering the best strategies of all time, it is important to note not only the mechanics and gameplay, but also the emotions that they awakened. Perhaps it is worth returning to cult products again to experience those same feelings.