The latest installment in the Civilization series, Civilization VII, takes a dramatic departure from its predecessors by introducing chaotic transition periods where latent challenges emerge simultaneously. This new gameplay mechanic is supported by historical events that often occur suddenly and with significant consequences.
As Yussef Cole notes, this game’s approach to crisis scenarios mirrors real-world events like the coronavirus pandemic and social unrest in America. The introduction of three historical ages and a series of crises during transitions between them creates an immersive experience where players must navigate complex societal issues.
By adopting different identities for their civilization, players are forced to confront various challenges such as financial instability, cultural changes, and oppressive hierarchies that can simmer beneath the surface until they boil over into conflict. The game’s catastrophic transitions also introduce environmental catastrophes like flooding rivers and erupting volcanoes, further emphasizing the need for adaptability.
While it is easy to lose hope in the face of such turmoil, persevering through disaster often leads to transformation and growth. As Naomi Klein posits in “The Shock Doctrine,” societal change can occur suddenly, as evidenced by events like the end of apartheid in South Africa or the war in Iraq under George W. Bush.
In Civilization VII, players must persevere and adapt to emerge from crises with a new identity, much like the ones experienced during real-world historical moments. By embracing this theme, the game provides an engaging experience that reflects the complexities of our world today.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/08/arts/civilization-7-review.html