Sid Meier’s Civilization V Announced, First Screens

2K Games has announced that Sid Meier’s Civilization V is in development at Firaxis Games.
The PC-exclusive strategy title will feature an entirely new engine which changes the game from square-based to hex-based.This will apparently allow for deeper strategy and more realistic gameplay, but we confess to being intrigued by the promises of deeper diplomacy (including leaders speaking in their native languages from a “screen-filling diplomatic scene”) and an entirely new combat system which will include ranged bombardment. We quite like the sound of “stunning organic landscapes” and a “spectacular visual experience,” too.”Ideas on how to bring new and fun experiences to Civ players never seem to stop flowing,” reveals Firaxis’ director of creative development, Sid Meier. “From fully animated leaders and realistic landscapes, new combat tactics, expanded diplomacy and shared mods, we’re excited for players to see the new vision our team at Firaxis has brought to the series.”Yes, you read that right: shared mods. As such you should expect community, modding, and multiplayer elements when the game launches in autumn, which cannot come too soon.Check out the first screenshots of Sid Meier’s Civilization V below.