Civilization 7 VR Introduces the Strategy Franchise to Virtual Reality
As the highly anticipated Civilization 7 prepares for its release on consoles and PC in the coming week, players eager to experience the strategy game in virtual reality will have to wait a little longer.
Publisher 2K Games has confirmed that Civilization 7 VR is set to launch in the spring of 2025.
According to an announcement from Firaxis Games, Civilization 7 VR will be available exclusively on Meta Quest 3 and 3S. The adaptation is being developed by PlaySlide Studios, marking the franchise’s debut in mixed reality.
Players can expect the virtual reality edition to retain the full content of the PC and console versions while offering a fresh perspective through VR and mixed-reality features. Civilization 7 VR integrates the traditional top-down gameplay with an interactive “Command Table,” presenting the world as a dynamic board game. The perspective allows for strategic planning from above while offering a closer view of units, cities, and Wonders for enhanced detail appreciation.
The virtual reality experience transports players into an intricately designed museum, with an exterior view tailored to reflect the chosen leader’s identity. In mixed reality mode, the Command Table adjusts seamlessly to fit within a player’s physical space. Additionally, an area known as The Archives within the museum will serve as a repository for gameplay achievements, displayed through interactive dioramas.
Civilization 7 VR will also include an online multiplayer mode, supporting up to three other players using Meta Quest 3 and 3S headsets.
The main edition of Civilization 7 is scheduled for release on February 11, 2025, across PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Early reviews suggest that the game continues the franchise’s legacy, delivering an engaging turn-based strategy experience. One review has awarded it a 9/10, noting its addictive gameplay loop, well-crafted civilizations, and historical depth, while acknowledging minor flaws that may be addressed in future updates and downloadable content.
With the introduction of VR, the franchise is taking a bold step into immersive gaming. This move aligns with the growing trend of integrating virtual reality into popular game series, providing players with more interactive and dynamic experiences. As technology continues to evolve, Civilization 7 VR may set a precedent for future iterations of the game, potentially influencing how strategy games are played in virtual environments. The ability to engage with civilizations in an up-close, interactive manner could redefine strategic gaming for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
