Digital Humanities Research ›› 2025, Vol. 5 ›› Issue (2): 16-30.

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Computer Historical Game Civilization VII and Tripartite Periodization on Human Civilization History

  

  • Online:2025-06-28 Published:2025-07-23

Abstract:

The 2025 historical game Civilization VII abandoned the traditional periodization model of human civilization history used in previous installments of the Civilization series, opting instead for a triad historical division: the "Classical Age," the "Age of Exploration," and the "Modern Age." This shift presents an opportunity to delve deeper into the nature of triad historical periodization. By examining how researchers and historical game designers employ, reject, or modify triad periodization, the article demonstrates that while the traditional triad of "Ancient," "Medieval," and "Modern" is no longer dominant, other forms of triad historical periodization remain vibrant. This vitality stems from the fact that triad periodization is more concise, flexible, and grounded in a shared understanding among both scholars and general public. Additionally, with the gradual rise of "historical game studies," questions such as how to study historical games and why they should be studied have become important academic topics. The article argues that research on historical games can be integrated into the study of historiography, fostering greater dialogue and interaction with historical scholarship.

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