Civilization: Beyond Earth coming in October

2K games has revealed that Civilization: Beyond Earth will release October 24. Pre-ordering the game now will grant access to the Exoplanets Map Packs. This additional content provides six maps, including Kepler 186f, Rigil Khantoris Bb, Tau Ceti d, Mu Arae f, 82 Eridani e and Eta Vulpeculae b. The scientific names have been used because they are real life exoplanets that have been discovered from Earth. Civilization: Beyond Earth is break away from the series in that it takes place in the near future, rather than starting at the dawn of man. It will see players set off on an expedition from Earth in search of new planets to inhabit.

Civilization: Beyond Earth has also been described as a spiritual successor to Alpha Centauri, another game directed by Sid Meier and developed by Firaxis. Alpha Centauri released in 1999 and was based on the gameplay used in the first Civilization title, although slightly adapted for the space setting. The developers have also cited inspiration from noted science fiction authors Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov.

The Civilization series has become a staple of the strategy genre and has become one of the most popular franchises on PC. It sees players attempt to build their own empire using turn-based strategy gameplay. Traditionally players begin in the prehistoric age and expand their power using diplomacy, war and technological advances until they reach the modern age. Entries in the series typically include a number of historical leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, Joseph Stalin, Cleopatra and Winston Churchill.

In 2008 Firaxis Games released specially designed console version called Civilization Revolution. This featured simplified controls and modified gameplay to better suit play using a controller rather than keyboard and mouse. A sequel, Civilization Revolution 2, launched yesterday exclusively for iOS devices. The latest installment in the main series was Civilization V. It saw widespread critical acclaim upon release and had a number of large expansions, including Gods & Kings and Brave New World.