It is. They just don't have the rights for that name, so decided to turn it into a Civ game, but apart from the name I'm pretty sure it's just a successor to Alpha Centauri. This way might be better, anyway- It makes people more eager to buy it, just because it has "Civilization" in the name.I wish it was more like Alpha Centauri, but I'm looking forward to it.
I'd like to believe that, but without a source I can't know what you're saying is correct. However, check out this interview with some peeps working on the game: http://www.gamespot.com/articles/beyond-earth-the-alpha-centauri-connection/1100-6418924/In an interview, (not sure where, TotalBiscuit mentioned it) they said the comparisons to Alpha Centauri will dissapear as they show more content.
Because this is an entirely different game. Sure, same concept maybe, but with a whole lot of differences. Plus, if they'd release it as an expansion pack for Civ V, they'd lose a few potential buyers who don't want to pay $40 for Civ V and then another $40 for the "Space Age" (because yes it would probably cost that much).I think it's cool, BUT....
Honestly WTF, Why can't they just pull a spore and make an updated Civ V, just extending the game and adding the Space Age to it?
Despite that, I'm looking forward to it (maybe my dad will finally play someone other than rome then)