Highlights
- Civilization VII VR is exclusively available on Meta Quest 3 and 3S, developed by PlaySide Studios under Meta’s funding.
- Offers a first-person perspective with the ability to switch between VR and MR modes, providing a unique tabletop feel using Quest 3’s front-facing cameras.
- Concerns over graphical fidelity due to hardware limitations and the game’s limited availability on other VR platforms like SteamVR and PSVR2.
With the release of Civilization VII, the transcendental experience of ruling empires and seeing them grow as you an omnipotent being decide about war and peace has risen to new heights. The addition of VR support for the game feeds into this role of a godlike being, surveying your burgeoning empire with a sweep of your hand. In this article, we will explore some of the details about this groundbreaking mode and the legendary title itself.
Meta Quest 3 and 3S Exclusive Mode
The VR version of Civilization VII is a Meta Quest 3 and 3S exclusive mode. This exclusivity is likely due to Meta funding the project, with the intent to showcase the mixed reality capabilities of the Quest 3. This suggests that Meta is investing in VR and MR content to push the adoption of their hardware. The game was not developed by Firaxis, the main developer for the Civilization franchise, but by PlaySide Studios, which has an existing contract with Meta. This platform exclusivity will sadly mean that the game will not be available on SteamVR, PSVR2, or even the older Quest 2, despite the Quest 2 having a larger install base.
Immersive Gameplay Experience
Civilization VII VR aims to provide a gameplay experience equivalent to the PC and console versions, including online multiplayer. The VR version will allow players to switch between VR and MR modes at will. The game uses the Quest 3’s front-facing cameras to create a mixed reality experience, placing the game on a “Command Table” in the player’s real-world environment. This approach gives a tabletop feel to the game. In both VR and MR modes, the player will have a first-person perspective, allowing them to view the game world from a higher vantage point and lean in for close-up details.
The Archives: A Journey Through Achievements
The game also includes a feature called “The Archives,” where players can view detailed dioramas commemorating their in-game achievements in both the MR and VR. The game will bring the series’ cast of world leaders to life, with whom players can interact as they react to the player’s decisions such as forging alliances or declaring war. Players will encounter these leaders “face-to-face” around the Command Table.
Criticisms and Concerns
Even with all the excitement surrounding the game, some noteworthy criticisms have come out regarding the game. The game as mentioned before has been developed by PlaySide Studios for the Meta Quest 3 and 3S exclusively, which might have a relation to why the graphical fidelity of the game is lacking, to say the least. The hardware limitations might have contributed to what users are considering a “watered-down version” of the PC game. The absence of any ports or versions for the PSVR2, and the PC means that the developers are missing out on a bigger audience who would love to experience the game in Virtual Reality.
Civilization VII VR is scheduled for a Spring 2025 launch, but a specific release date has not yet been announced. The VR version was announced shortly before the PC and console versions of Civilization VII were released, which some find surprising. The game is already available for adding to the wishlist on the Horizon Store for Quest 3 and 3S.
