Summary

  • Civilization 7's first 6 civs include Aksum, Egypt, Maya, Maurya, Rome, and Shawnee.
  • The game will launch on February 11, 2025, with a new three-age progression system.
  • Play styles will vary with civilizations like Egypt focusing on rivers, Rome on traditions, and the Shawnee on food production.

Firaxis Games has revealed the first six civs for Civilization 7, which include Aksum, Egypt, Maya, Maurya, and Rome from the Antiquity Age, and the Shawnee from the Exploration Age. Each civilization will have its own special skills, buildings, and units that will be important in shaping the early stages of Civilization 7.

Civilization 7 is scheduled to launch on February 11, 2025, for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Civilization 7 will introduce a new three-age progression system: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Civilizations will go through different crises, and players will be able to "mix and match" leaders to customize their empires, adding a new layer of strategy. Some familiar elements, like barbarians and workers, are being left out this time, hinting at a fresh direction for the series. The game will focus on the rise and fall of empires, such as Rome evolving into medieval powers, which will be a key part of the gameplay.

city in sid meier's civilization 7
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Civilization 7 will explore the evolution of cultures over time, and Firaxis Games has shared on Twitter the first six civilizations players will be able to experience: Aksum, Egypt, Maya, Maurya, Rome, and Shawnee. Aksum is all about trade and managing resources, with its "Kingdom of Natural Wealth" ability boosting gold production from coastal and river cities. It focuses on cultural and economic growth, supported by its special naval units like the Dhow and the trade ship Tankwa.

First Six Civs Available in Civilization 7

  • Aksum
  • Egypt
  • Maya
  • Maurya
  • Rome
  • Shawnee (available exclusively with the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack DLC)

Egypt was a fan favorite in Civilization 6, and it's back with a focus on building power around rivers. Its "Gifts of Osiris" ability boosts production near rivers, making Egypt great for players who want to grow strong cities along waterways. Its famous Pyramids provide economic benefits, while unique structures like the Mortuary Temple and the Medjay infantry strengthen both its military and cultural presence.

The Maya excel in science with the "Skies of Itzamna" ability boosting research from vegetated tiles. Its Jaguar Slayer unit defends well, and the Mundo Perdido wonder enhances science and happiness. Maurya balances military and science with "Dhamma Lipi," gaining bonuses from happiness. Its Purabhettarah cavalry is strong in fortifications, and the Sanchi Stupa boosts culture. Rome’s "Twelve Tables" ability improves its capital and military through traditions, with the Legion unit and Colosseum enhancing culture and happiness.

Finally, the Shawnee (available exclusively with the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack DLC), from the Exploration Age, use "Nepekifaki" to enhance food production along rivers. Its Kispoko Nena'to infantry and the Serpent Mound wonder further boost combat, science, and production. Along with the confirmed features of Civilization 7, these first six civilizations promise to offer unique play styles and strategies.

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9 /10

Sid Meier's Civilization VII
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Grand Strategy
Turn-Based Strategy
4X
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Systems
PlayStation-1 Xbox-1 super greyscale 8-bit logo PC-1
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Top Critic Avg: 79 /100 Critics Rec: 77%
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Released
February 11, 2025
ESRB
Everyone 10+ // Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Mild Language, Mild Violence, Suggestive Themes
Developer(s)
Firaxis Games
Publisher(s)
2K
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
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The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter. Sid Meier's Civilization® VII empowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!

In Civilization VII, your strategic decisions shape the unique cultural lineage of your evolving empire. Rule as one of many legendary leaders from throughout history and steer the course of your story by choosing a new civilization to represent your empire in each Age of human advancement.

Construct cities and architectural wonders to expand your territory, improve your civilization with technological breakthroughs, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations as you explore the far reaches of the unknown world. Pursue prosperity in an immersive solo experience or play with others in online multiplayer.

Whether you choose to follow a path rooted in history or reimagine possibilities to chart your own way forward, build something you believe in and create a legacy that echoes through the Ages in Civilization VII.

Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
Franchise
Sid Meier's Civilization
Genre(s)
Grand Strategy, Turn-Based Strategy, 4X