Civilization 7 continues the legacy of the long-running turn-based strategy franchise, and with a port already confirmed for the Switch 2, Nintendo fans who love the series have a lot to celebrate. Released back in February, Civilization 7 was one of the first big launches of the year, and its reach is bound to grow with the arrival of the Switch 2.
Since its launch, Civilization 7 has been updated to become a stronger experience, and once the Switch 2 finally arrives, it will be exciting to see how the game plays on the fresh Nintendo console. With the console's new mouse-function Joy-Cons, playing Civilization 7 on the Switch 2 may be the best way to experience the game. However, there is another huge boon that the turn-based title has going for it: the Switch 2's multiplayer features.
Civilization 7: Why You Should Choose the Maya for the Age of Antiquity
Civilization 7 has no shortage of Antiquity Age Civs to choose from, but the Maya might be the best bet for those on the path to a Science victory.
The Switch 2's Video Chat Can Bring Multiplayer Matches to New Heights in Civilization 7
In multiplayer, it can sometimes be difficult to keep up with which players are taking on the roles of which civ. However, thanks to the Switch 2's built-in video feature that will be part of GameChat, keeping up with players in Civilization 7 may be easier than it ever has been. There are already plenty of reasons why the Switch 2 and Civilization 7 seem destined to be a match made in heaven, but the video chat could prove to be the cherry on top of the multiplayer experience.
The Switch 2's Video Chat Can Streamline Multiplayer Matches
- Video chat boxes could theoretically hover alongside which civ players are controlling, in order to keep track of who is who.
Right now, it's unclear exactly how intuitive the Switch 2's video chat cameras are going to be, but if Nintendo has put in the extra effort, then it could be a great way to keep matches organized. Knowing exactly which player is in control of a specific empire or kingdom by seeing their faces on camera would only be beneficial, but only time will tell if Switch 2's video chat is that well-thought-out. In addition to GameChat, features like GameShare are showcasing Nintendo's push to draw in a larger multiplayer audience, and Civilization 7 is bound to benefit from this change in direction.
GameChat will only be free for a limited time. After March 2026, Switch 2 users will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use the features.
Civilization 7's Switch 2 Launch is Right Around the Corner
- Civilization 7 is a Switch 2 launch title.
- The Switch 2 is available on June 5, 2025.
- Pre-orders for the Switch 2 go live on April 24.
Civilization 7 getting a Switch 2 port seemed bound to happen, but the fact that it's a launch title for the console is extra exciting. With the Switch 2's larger screen and more powerful graphics capabilities, Civilization 7 won't only be fun to play with friends; it will likely look great, too.
Playing Civilization 7 on the Switch 2 may be the best way to experience the game.
The Switch 2 retails for $450. A $500 bundle that includes Mario Kart World is also being sold.
Of course, only time will tell just how satisfying Civilization 7 feels to play on the Switch 2. New features like the mouse-capable Joy-Cons and more intricate multiplayer options are risky, but they could ultimately pay off in a big way. The good news is that the wait for the Switch 2 won't be a long one. The console has faced some controversy when it comes to its price points, but it may also be a huge improvement from its dated predecessor.
Regardless, those who are excited to have a brand-new Nintendo console in their hands will get to play a fun array of games from the very start. Between the highly anticipated Mario Kart World, Civilization 7, and Split Fiction, the Switch 2's launch titles are aiming to cast a wide net.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 79 /100 Critics Rec: 77%
- Released
- February 11, 2025
- ESRB
- Everyone 10+ // Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Mild Language, Mild Violence, Suggestive Themes
- Developer(s)
- Firaxis Games
- Publisher(s)
- 2K
WHERE TO PLAY
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.
- Genre(s)
- Grand Strategy, Turn-Based Strategy, 4X
