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

Sid Meier's Civilization VII launched to a wave of criticism from players who feel the game is significantly incomplete, more akin to a beta test than a finished product. This perception is particularly jarring given the premium edition's $100 price tag, fueling widespread frustration and vocal complaints.

The issues extend beyond simple technical glitches; players cite problems with gameplay mechanics, design oversights, and generally unpolished features. The developers' admission that certain elements were still works in progress only exacerbated the situation.

One particularly contentious issue involves the advertised "unique" British unit, which, upon release, proved to be a generic model indistinguishable from standard units. While developers promised an update to rectify this, the explanation did little to soothe player anger.

Image: reddit.com

This incident highlighted broader concerns about the game's launch readiness. Many potential buyers are delaying purchases, viewing the negative reception as confirmation of their wait-and-see approach.

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

Civilization VII's premium price further amplifies the frustration. Players argue that $100 for a bug-ridden game, feeling more like early access than a finished product, is unacceptable. This has sparked wider discussions about the potential for rushed releases prioritizing speed over quality.

In response, 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 British unit problem. However, significant skepticism remains, with many players unsure if these efforts will restore their faith in the game.