Civilization 7 is caught between two warring sensibilities. Since 1991, it's been a historical 4X game, and players naturally expect that it not only honors but attempts to capture and recreate real events - or at least the essence of certain periods. It's also Civilization 7. Firaxis has nailed the formula, but after 34 years, I'd imagine even the most cast-iron fans are ready for a major reinvention. This, surely, is why we have the controversial Ages system, which slashes micromanagement and allows for a more playful mixing of leaders, abilities, and civs. But given the response to Civilization 7 so far, it's perhaps an overcorrection. Enter Ara History Untold. With a new DLC on the way, it could be the 4X game to balance historical accuracy with more inventive, fantastical alternative modes.
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