Civilization prepares for next-gen console debut

New York (NY) - The 17-year-old cult PC hit is preparing to run the gamut of new consoles, but leaves the Wii out of its lineup.

2K Games has announced Sid Meier’s Civilization Revolution, to be available for the DS, PSP, Playstation 3, and Xbox 360 next year. The Wii is the only next-gen console to be shunned from the latest multi-platform strategy title.

The full slate of empire-building tools will carry over in the transition to consoles, in addition to some new improvements. 2K describes some of the changes for the consoles by saying the game will have "accessible maps and streamlined time scale for quicker gamers, intense combat, and constant action."

16 civilizations will be included in Revolution, as Sid Meier returns to the development and reprises his role as lead designer. Meier has had a less pivotal role in recent installments to the series.

For applicable consoles, Revolution will enable online play with voice and video chat. The game is currently slated for a "spring 2008" release.