Aspyr Media announced Tuesday plans to publish Civilization V for the Macintosh. The game is already in development and will be released this holiday season, according to the company.

Civilization V is the latest edition of the long-running turn-based strategy game series originally designed by Sid Meier. The game was originally developed by Firaxis and published for Microsoft Windows in September, so Aspyr is endeavoring to close the typical gap between when PC and Mac versions are released.

Civilization V follows the usual script for a Civ game – players guide the development of a civilization from its roots in prehistory to the future. You control the civilization’s focus on research, diplomacy, economic growth, government, military development and expansion of borders.

The new Civilization V uses an entirely new game engine, an overhauled combat system and many other significant changes; multiplayer is still supported, along with “modding” (adding user-made scenarios).

Aspyr says the game will be released in physical and digital editions. Aspyr uses its own service, GameAgent, to sell its games online. We expect Civilization V won’t be available to Mac gamers through Valve’s Steam service, although Aspyr hasn’t announced anything for sure.