t's a rare occasion when a civilization's birth can be pinned down to a single day, but that's exactly what 2K Games did today. The publisher announced that Sid Meier's Civilization V will launch in North America on September 21, with international releases following on September 24.
Ooooo, Civilization V is looking very hexy.
The latest installment in the decades-old PC turn-based strategy franchise features a number of changes to the established formula. For example, the game is being built on an all-new engine, and for the first time, the series will move to a hexagonal playfield grid. Developer Firaxis has also overhauled the game's combat system and introduced ranged bombardment options, animated world leaders who speak in their own languages, and a built-in community hub allowing players to swap scenarios and other content without leaving the game.
Civilization V will also incorporate much of Valve's Steamworks functionality. With Valve's development tools, Civilization V will include features such as auto-updating, Steam Achievements, downloadable content, and multiplayer matchmaking. Further tying the game to Steam, those who preorder the regular or Digital Deluxe edition of Civilization V through the downloadable storefront will be offered the Cradle of Civilization Map Pack: Mesopotamia add-on for free. Included in the map pack will be new territory to explore in the Fertile Crescent, from the Nile River to the Tigris and Euphrates river valleys.
