Civilization 7 Criticized as a \"$100 Beta Test\": Players Voice Their Discontent

Sid Meier's Civilization VII's launch has been met with significant player backlash, with many feeling the game is unfinished and more akin to a beta test than a completed release. This perception is particularly frustrating given the premium edition's $100 price tag.

Criticisms extend beyond simple technical glitches; players cite problems with gameplay mechanics, design flaws, and generally unpolished features. The developers' admission that certain aspects remain works in progress only exacerbated the situation.

A prime example of this is the controversy surrounding the British unit, advertised as unique but ultimately revealed to be a generic model identical to standard units. While developers promised a redesign via an update, this explanation did little to soothe player anger.

Image: reddit.com

This incident underscores broader concerns about the game's readiness for release. Potential buyers are delaying purchases, viewing the negative reception as confirmation of their wait-and-see approach.

Steam reviews currently reflect this mixed reception, showcasing a division between those who appreciate the core concept and those disappointed by its execution. While patches are being released to address bugs and performance issues, the update pace hasn't quelled player discontent.

The $100 price point further fuels this frustration. Players feel the game's numerous issues don't justify the cost, especially when it feels more like an early access title. This has sparked wider conversations about the potential for rushed releases prioritizing speed over quality in the modern gaming industry.

The development team has pledged to address the most pressing issues through future patches, aiming to improve stability, refine gameplay, and correct visual inconsistencies like the aforementioned British unit problem. However, significant skepticism remains, with many questioning whether these patches can fully restore faith in the game.