Firaxis' Shift in Strategy: How Nintendo Switch Influenced Civilization's Development

The release of Civilization 6 on the Nintendo Switch caught Firaxis off guard, as the developer had not anticipated the game's popularity on the console. As a PC-centric studio, Firaxis typically focuses on developing games for the PC platform, with console ports handled by other studios. However, the success of Civilization 6 on the Switch led to a shift in the developer's approach, with the team now working on a multiplatform release for Civilization 7. According to executive producer Dennis Shirk, the decision to release the game on all platforms simultaneously was a natural one, driven by the desire to reach a broader audience and provide a more seamless gaming experience. The development process has been challenging, with the team having to create multiple levels of detail for game assets and optimize the game for various consoles. Firaxis has partnered with Behaviour Interactive to assist with the console ports, but the developer is actively involved in the process to ensure that the game meets its high standards. The result has been a change in how Firaxis approaches game development, with a greater emphasis on building assets that can be easily adapted for different platforms. The team has also grown, with the addition of a narrative team and an expanded AI team, allowing for more variety in the game's units and a more immersive gaming experience. The new game features a narrative system, where players can encounter various story bits and make decisions that impact the game world. Each Civ leader has a primary quest line tied to their historical context, adding an extra layer of depth to the game. The development of Civilization 7 has been a long and challenging process, with the team facing difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic. The studio has since adopted a hybrid work environment, with the core team working together in the office several days a week to foster collaboration and creativity.