The announcement of Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 Collector’s Edition has sparked significant discussion, not just for the extras it offers, but for what it notably omits—the actual game. This Collector’s Edition is part of a growing and controversial trend in the gaming industry, where premium bundles no longer include the core game itself, leaving many fans puzzled and frustrated.

What’s Included in the Civilization 7 Collector’s Edition?

The Civilization 7 Collector’s Edition, priced at $139.47, offers a range of exclusive items for dedicated fans. These include:

  • A set of challenge coins
  • A patch set
  • A collection of postcards
  • A large, ornate Civilization-themed clock
  • A scout figure
  • An art print

However, despite the impressive array of collectibles, the most crucial element—the game itself—is absent from this package. To actually play Civilization 7, you’ll need to spend an additional $120.89 for the Founders Edition, bringing the total to a steep $260.36.

The Founders Edition: What You Get

The Founders Edition of Civilization 7 is the only version that includes the game, along with several perks:

  • Five days of early access to the game
  • Tecumseh and Shawnee packs
  • Post-launch content
  • Additional skins

This edition is digital-only, meaning there is no physical copy of the game included, even at this premium price point.

A Growing Trend: Collector’s Editions Without Games

The omission of the game in Civilization 7’s Collector’s Edition isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a worrying trend where high-end Collector’s Editions are being sold without the actual game. For example, BioWare recently announced the Dragon Age: The Veilguard Collector’s Edition, which similarly excludes the game, despite its $150 price tag.

Earlier this year, Life is Strange: Double Exposure followed the same model, releasing a Collector’s Edition without the game itself, much to the dismay of fans. These instances highlight a shift in how game publishers are marketing and pricing special editions, often prioritizing physical collectibles over the inclusion of the actual game.

The Impact on Fans and the Industry

This trend has not gone unnoticed by the gaming community, with many fans expressing frustration over the increasing disconnect between premium-priced editions and the core gaming experience. The rationale behind this approach may vary, from pushing digital downloads to reducing production costs, but it’s clear that the lack of a physical or even digital game in these packages is leaving a sour taste for many.

As this practice becomes more common, it raises questions about the future of Collector’s Editions and what consumers should expect when investing in these high-priced bundles.

Final Thoughts: A Collector’s Edition Without the Core Experience

The Civilization 7 Collector’s Edition is a beautifully crafted set of memorabilia that any fan of the series might cherish, but the omission of the game itself is a glaring issue. As more publishers adopt this trend, the value proposition of Collector’s Editions continues to evolve, often in ways that challenge traditional expectations.

For fans of Civilization and other beloved franchises, this shift prompts a crucial decision—whether the physical extras are worth the investment without the core product that ties it all together. As this practice becomes more prevalent, the gaming community will likely continue to voice its concerns, pushing for a balance that respects both the art of collecting and the essential experience of gameplay.

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