Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 is one of the most anticipated strategy games, promising exciting new features while staying true to the franchise’s roots. With multiple editions, cross-play, and new mechanics, there’s plenty for fans to explore.
Civilization VII Advanced Access Guide (How to Play Civ 7 Early)
The official release date for Civilization VII is February 11, although it's possible to play Civ 7 early if you're willing to pay a little more.
With the game’s release fast approaching, you may have lingering questions or concerns. This guide aims to clear up any doubts, covering a wide range of topics — from its system requirements to its platform details. Nearly everything you need to know is explained in detail below.
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Release Date & Platform Details
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 is yet another AAA game with multiple release dates. Standard Edition players can start on February 11, while those who purchase a higher-tier edition get early access starting February 6.
All Available Platforms For Sid Meier's Civilization 7
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 will launch on a wide range of platforms. As expected, PC is supported, including macOS and Linux. Surprisingly, both console generations are also included, meaning you can play Civ 7 on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. Handheld players will be pleased to know that the game is also compatible with the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.
See Related: Civ 7 Wiki
Where Can PC Players Purchase Sid Meier's Civilization 7?
PC players will have options when purchasing Sid Meier's Civilization 7, as the game will be available on both Steam and the Epic Games Store. With identical pricing on both platforms, the choice comes down to personal preference.
Civ 7 DLC Release Schedule (Post-Release Content Roadmap)
Civilization is renowned for its fantastic post-release support, so fans are expecting a ton of great Civ 7 DLC in the coming months and years.
Is Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Available On GOG?
DRM haters will be disappointed to learn that Sid Meier's Civilization 7 won’t be available on GOG. This is likely due to the game featuring Denuvo DRM, making its absence from GOG unsurprising.
Is Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Available On Any Subscription Service?
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 isn’t available on any subscription service like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus. If you want to play, you'll need to buy a copy. However, this doesn’t rule out a future addition to a subscription service.
Map Restrictions On Nintendo Switch Version Of Sid Meier's Civilization 7?
The fact that Sid Meier's Civilization 7 is coming to Nintendo Switch after all is a feat in itself. However, it is not without its limitations. The Switch version only supports Duel, Tiny, and Small map sizes. Standard and above map sizes are not supported by the handheld device.
Civ 7 Dev Talks Biggest Changes to Warfare
In a recent interview with The Best War Games, Sid Meier's Civilization 7's executive producer Dennis Shirk discusses the biggest changes to warfare.
PC Requirements For Sid Meier's Civilization 7
What Is The File Size Of Sid Meier's Civilization 7?
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 isn't a particularly large game in terms of storage. It requires just 20 GB of free storage space — a stark contrast to the 100+ GB many modern titles demand.
Does Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Upscaling Technologies Or Ray Tracing?
- The developer hasn't confirmed whether Sid Meier's Civilization 7 features ray tracing, but given the game's nature, its absence would make sense.
- As for upscaling, the game supports FSR and XeSS, but DLSS is not included. However, DLSS support could be added in a future update.
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Review
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 takes the franchise's core formula, overhauls many of its features, and delivers another stellar strategy experience.
Does Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Support Cross-Play?
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 allows fans across all platforms to play together, as it supports full cross-play. However, players must link their platform account to a 2K Account for cross-play to function. Despite this, some limitations still apply.
Cross-Play Limitations In Sid Meier's Civilization 7
While Sid Meier's Civilization 7 supports cross-play across platforms, Nintendo Switch players face some limitations. As previously mentioned, the Switch version does not support Standard or larger map sizes. This means only four players can participate in the Antiquity & Exploration Ages, while six players are supported in the Modern Age.
Does Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Support Cross-Progression?
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 supports cross-progression, but players must link their platform account to their 2K Account. Once linked, progress will be shared across all platforms.
Can You Play Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Offline?
The single-player component of Sid Meier's Civilization 7 can be played offline, while an internet connection is required for online multiplayer. The game also supports LAN multiplayer and local wireless multiplayer for PC and Nintendo Switch, respectively.
Even Longtime Civilization Players May Want to Play the Civ 7 Tutorial
Fireaxis creative director Ed Beach offers a couple of pieces of sound advice for players eager to jump into Civilization 7 in February.
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Edition Differences & Pre-Order Bonuses
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 is available in four editions, each priced higher than the last. For most players, the Standard Edition should be enough, while dedicated fans may prefer the Deluxe, Founder's, or Collector’s Edition.
Below is a breakdown of the available editions and their content, excluding the Collector’s Edition, which is covered separately.
|
Content |
Standard Edition |
Deluxe Edition |
Founder's Edition |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Price |
$69.99 |
$99.99 |
$129.99 |
|
Base Game |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|
The Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack |
Pre-Order Only |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Early Access (February 6) |
✔ |
✔ |
|
|
Deluxe Content Pack |
✔ |
✔ |
|
|
Crossroads of the World Collection |
✔ |
✔ |
|
|
Founder's Content Pack |
✔ |
||
|
Right to Rule Collection |
✔ |
Does Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Have Any Pre-Order Bonuses?
Sid Meier's Civilization 7 offers a pre-order bonus. Players who purchase the Standard Edition before January 11 will receive the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack.
This bonus is also included by default in the Deluxe and Founder's Editions, so there's no need to pre-order those editions if you plan to buy them later.
Does Sid Meier's Civilization 7 Have A Collector's Edition?
Hardcore Civilization fans will be pleased to know that Sid Meier's Civilization 7 includes a Collector's Edition, packed with a vast array of content. Priced at $279.99, it offers a generous selection of physical items along with a code for the Civilization 7 Founder's Edition, granting access to all the digital content as well.
The Collector's Edition includes the following physical items:
- "The Passage of Time" Decorative Clock
- Scout Figure
- Logo Pin
- Challenge Coin
- Civilization Postcards
- High-Quality Art Print
- Yield Icon Patch Set
You can also purchase the Collector's Edition without the game code, perfect for those who prefer to buy the game separately later on.
-
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
- Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer
- Cross-Platform Play
- Yes - all platforms, restrictions apply
- Cross Save
- Yes, via 2K account
- Franchise
- Sid Meier's Civilization
- Number of Players
- 1-8 players
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- Verified
- PC Release Date
- February 11, 2025
- Xbox Series X|S Release Date
- February 11, 2025
- PS5 Release Date
- February 11, 2025
- Nintendo Switch Release Date
- February 11, 2025
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PC
- Genre(s)
- Grand Strategy, Turn-Based Strategy, 4X
- X|S Optimized
- Yes
- Local Co-Op Support
- No
