Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, the latest installment of the iconic strategy game series, made a spectacular appearance at the Game Awards 2024 on 13 December. The much-anticipated event saw the unveiling of the game’s opening cinematic, accompanied by a live orchestral performance, which deeply impressed those in attendance.
A mesmerising live performance sets the stage
The premiere of the cinematic was elevated by a breathtaking live performance from an orchestra, playing music composed by the Grammy award-winning Christopher Tin. This grand musical showcase not only set the tone for the reveal but also highlighted the thematic depth of Civilization VII. The cinematic itself, narrated by Gwendoline Christie, known for her roles in “Game of Thrones” and the “Star Wars” franchise, takes the audience on a poignant journey through the ages.
As the story unfolds, viewers follow the journey of a rusty, buried saber discovered by a lone farmer. This ancient weapon travels through time, passing from one generation to the next, across various cultures and regions, symbolising the layered nature of history itself. This powerful narrative encapsulates the game’s central theme that history is a continuum built in layers.
“Live Gloriously”: A theme of universal resonance
Alongside the cinematic, the game’s main theme titled “Live Gloriously” was also introduced. Christopher Tin expressed his artistic vision for the composition, stating, “With ‘Live Gloriously,’ I wanted to capture universal themes of hope, heroism, and mortality that have resonated across history. You’ll hear words from The Iliad, Beowulf, Popol Vuh, and Ramayana, delivering a beautiful sense of gravity and emotion that embodies the story of humanity.” This theme aims to resonate with players by drawing on the epic tales that have shaped human culture and consciousness.
Coming soon to multiple platforms
Gamers around the world can look forward to experiencing Civilization VII firsthand when it launches on 11 February 2025. The game will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, and Mac and Linux via Steam. With a rating of E10+ by the ESRB, this installment promises to be accessible to a wide audience, continuing the legacy of engaging and thought-provoking gameplay that the Civilization series is known for.
Firaxis Games, a studio under the 2K label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., continues to push the boundaries of strategic gaming with this latest offering. As fans of the series and newcomers alike anticipate the game’s release, the excitement is palpable, promising another enriching experience into the annals of history through the lens of Civilization.
