Take-Two Boss Says 'Legacy' Civilization Audience Will Eventually Come Around on Civilization 7 Amid 'Mixed' Steam User Reviews

Civilization VII has arrived, but its launch hasn't been without its bumps. While the game currently holds a "Mixed" user review rating on Steam, Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, remains confident that dedicated Civilization fans will ultimately embrace the latest installment.

The game's early access release, primarily accessed by hardcore Civilization enthusiasts, has sparked considerable discussion on Steam. Users have voiced concerns about the user interface, a perceived lack of map diversity, and the absence of certain features expected from the series.

Firaxis has acknowledged this feedback and pledged improvements. These include UI enhancements, the addition of cooperative teams to multiplayer, and a broader range of map types, among other planned updates.

In an interview with IGN, Zelnick addressed the mixed reception, referencing Eurogamer's less-than-stellar 2/5 review, but emphasized that the game's overall performance is "very encouraging." He pointed to a Metacritic score of 81 and numerous reviews exceeding 90, highlighting the positive critical response.

Zelnick believes that the initial apprehension among longtime fans stems from the significant changes introduced in Civilization VII. He anticipates that as players invest more time, their opinions will shift positively, echoing the typical response to innovative entries in the series. He acknowledged some existing issues, such as the UI, but expressed confidence in Firaxis' ability to address these concerns.

The core gameplay shift involves a campaign structured across three distinct Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. The unique Age Transition system, where players simultaneously select new civilizations, retain legacies, and witness world evolution, represents a departure from previous Civilization titles. Zelnick firmly believes this innovative system will ultimately be appreciated by players.

However, Firaxis faces the immediate challenge of improving player sentiment, particularly on Steam. The platform's user review rating significantly impacts a game's visibility and overall success. A positive shift in Steam reviews is crucial for Civilization VII's long-term prospects.