Like other large publishers, Take-Two is taking the plunge into the social gaming space with the previously-named Civilization Network. Yesterday, the publisher announced that the game will now be known as Civilization World and is expected to be released sometime in 2011. Sid Meier addressed the new name change in a Facebook announcement and opened the game up for alpha test sign-ups.
“The name better reflects the main theme of the game; in Civ World you will be joining your friends to form nations, which will compete with other player-nations to rule the world. Civ World’s shaping up to be a really fun Facebook game, as well as another addictive Civilization experience,” wrote Meier.
With the new focus on playing with friends, those who want to participate in the alpha test will need to form teams in order to be considered. Players can be in the live game alone, but Firaxis wants to test the group features early on. Those who register for the alpha will also receive a special item for display in their Civ World throne rooms.
On the game itself, don’t expect a persistent world like many Facebook titles.
“Civ World games will have a well-defined beginning and end, each ending with a triumphant civilization and one person recognized as that game’s most prestigious player,” explained Meier. “Along the way, as you progress through the different eras of time, you'll have the chance to win era victories as well. We want players to have both a final goal to work towards, as well as short-term objectives to achieve as they play. The trophies you unlock with your triumphs will carry over from game to game, and you can show them off in your throne room.”
The alpha sign-up page can be found here.
