In the illustrious journey of digital world domination, 'Civilization VII' has finally made its way onto the Nintendo Switch 2. I suppose when you run out of TV shows to binge, conquering the globe is the next logical step. Gone are the days of waiting for your pizza delivery; it's now about waiting for your research in steam technology to finish. It's time to lead your civilization not just to victory, but also to a minor existential crisis about all your life choices while you meticulously plan your next move. Ah, the beauty of gaming.
So what's the deal with 'Civilization VII'? Well, just like those fancy IKEA assembly instructions, it's complicated yet oddly satisfying. You'll start by patting down a bunch of pixels to create your first settlement, possibly after realizing it looks exactly like the mess taking place in your kitchen. From there, you'll guide your growing civilization through the ages, all whilst facing crises that simulate real-world events. In other words, it's the equivalent of playing SimCity, but with way more politics and fewer natural disasters (although you can still manage to have a few of those on the side). And don't worry about just one leader type; you can mix and match as if you're in a dating app for historical figures. Choose a philosopher and a warrior! Or, as I like to call it, the 'Brawny Baby Yoda Years'. Now, if you fancy military conquest, the game allows you to forge alliances or wage wars as casually as you would select toppings for your pizza. But fear not-your strategy will often be interrupted by slight nuisances, such as pesky city-states that refuse to bow down to your ancient cravings for control. As with every 'Civilization' game, you'll constantly feel the pressure of choice. There are multiple victory paths to pursue: military, scientific, cultural, and more! Nothing says a successful civilization like a huge rocket that's headed to the moon while your neighbors are still trying to figure out how to grow corn cooperatively. Remember, if real life is hard, why not try and manage a whole world instead? It's a perfect way to procrastinate.
Visually, this game is as vibrant as a unicorn at a rainbow convention. The new engine boasts improved graphics to make each civilization as unique as your uncle's questionable taste in Hawaiian shirts. The colors pop and the landscapes look like paintings drawn by caffeinated raccoons-if raccoons could paint with a flair for dramatic realism. It's glorious and probably more appealing than your average family vacation photo where everyone looks like they just survived a zombie apocalypse. And yes, the Switch 2 handles it all without sounding like an angry lawn mower. Consider yourself lucky if you have this on the portable console; it makes tiny homes and tiny victories a lot more entertaining while you sit in your boring college lecture.
'Civilization VII' on the Switch 2 packs a hefty punch, despite shedding a tear over some minor gameplay quirks and an interface that at times feels like an Excel spreadsheet on steroids. The excitement of making history is still here, so don't shy away from getting your empire on. However, be warned: you might find yourself neglecting everything else-like your social life, friends, and the gym-just to finish that next turn. With that said, if you're looking for a game where you can conquer, manipulate, and topple your way to a digital, global empire while pretending to be a lesser-known historical figure, this is your jam. Just don't forget to eat and hydrate once in a while; your civilization does depend on it.