In the years since Civilization VI was released by Firaxis, you could say it's gotten a ton of post-release support. If you consider "support" adding stuff rather than fixing things that don't work. The process has been fascinating..
The Star Kings DLC adds the excellent Galactic Empire mode that Tom just wrote about. I’m all in for all the variety that comes with the DLCs, but idk if I’d call the “essential.”
You do NOT need Star Kings to play the Galactic Empire mode. The updates are named after dinosaurs for some reason, and Galactic Empire mode was part of the free Triceratops update. However, since it was concurrent with the release of Star Kings, I can understand the confusion.
But to reiterate, the Galactic Empire mode is part of the core game, and you don’t have to pay extra to get it. Hence the jab at Civ 6: 4X Goat Simulator in my write-up.
I was ready to buy Planetfall for PC, was checking GOG, huge sale, wow, 75% off. I checked Steam, and wow, I already own Planetfall. I think it was a humble choice… I think I should get started now already!
As someone who has played a lot of Civ VI over the years and have had a blast playing with friends and family during the pandemic, I guess I can see what you’re saying but I suppose I’m also that target audience you’re referring to.
As for Planetfall, it took me a while to get into it but when it finally clicked for me it was a very rewarding experience. I haven’t really scratched the surface of the Galactic Empire mode but I look forward to reading your diary!