Civilization 7, affectionately known as Civ 7, has stirred significant discontent among its Steam community, earning a "mostly negative" rating shortly after the release of its Advanced Access version, five days ahead of the scheduled February 11 launch. This early access phase, which players paid extra to experience, has brought forth a wave of criticism that has dampened the high anticipation surrounding the game, the first new installment since Civilization 6 in 2016.
Steam Players Voice Concerns Over User Interface, Maps, and Resource Mechanics
Players have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with several aspects of Civ 7. One of the primary grievances centers on the game's User Interface (UI). Many have described the UI as "janky" and "ugly," with some going as far as likening it to a "free mobile knockoff Civ." There's a prevailing sentiment among players that Firaxis Games may have prioritized console development, resulting in a "barren" UI with limited customization options.
The map system has also come under fire. Players have expressed frustration over the limited map size options and the lack of detailed information when scrolling through map types. Civ 7 offers only three map sizes—Small, Medium, and Large—as opposed to the five available in Civ 6, which catered to various gameplay styles.
Additionally, the new resource mechanics have sparked debate. In Civ 7, resources are managed strategically across cities or the empire rather than being directly gathered from map tiles, a significant departure from Civ 6's random map-based resource placement. Many players feel that the older system provided more replay value and strategic depth.
In response to the feedback, Firaxis Games has acknowledged the concerns, particularly regarding the UI, and assured players that they are committed to making ongoing improvements. They have also hinted at future updates and expansions that could address issues with the map system, encouraging players to share their suggestions for enhancements.
