The Apple Arcade subscription gaming service is about to receive its most high-profile library entry yet – the iconic PC strategy game Sid Meier’s Civilization VII.
The AAA title will arrive as a special Arcade Edition on Apple Arcade for iPhone, iPad and Mac (M-series required) on February 5. Gamers will be able to play across those Apple devices. Apple says this is the same base game experience as appeared on the PC version, so it’s not dumbed down from the authentic experience, it’s just missing the DLC that’s been available on other platforms.
In a media release, Apple says: “Build the greatest empire the world has ever known. On February 5, the award-winning strategy franchise by legendary game designer Sid Meier comes to Apple Arcade with the launch of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Arcade Edition.
“Players can now take this AAA PC gaming experience on the go, as it’s playable across iPhone, iPad, and Mac. In a pivotal new chapter of the iconic series, empires evolve with the dawn of each distinct age of human history, and players’ strategic decisions will shape the unique cultural lineage of their civilizations. Whether players choose to follow a path rooted in history or imagine new possibilities, they can create a legacy that echoes through the ages.”
We don’t often report on new games being added to Apple Arcade – which is available via an Apple One bundle or as a standalone $6.99/£6.99 a month subscription – but the launch of Civilization VII is newsworthy.
It marks a major PC game being made available for mobile devices and is notable for being available as part of the bundle. That could be a sign Apple is planning to make Apple Arcade a stronger rival to the likes of Xbox Game Pass by introducing a greater number of top notch blockbuster games.
Also, previous AAA games to launch for iPhone and iPad – such as entires from the Resident Evil or Assassin’s Creed franchises – have been standalone purchases. Civilization VII will be joined on February 5 by three more games on Apple Arcade. Retrocade, Felicity’s Door, and I Love Hue Too+
