Ed Beach, Creative Director at Firaxis Games
Summary Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Build a unique cultural lineage as your empire is represented by unique Civs across each Age. Launching on February 11, 2025, with support for cross-play and cross-progression.
From everyone at Firaxis Games, we’re thrilled to finally reveal gameplay and share that Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
In Civilization VII , we invite you to go on a journey never experienced before in the franchise – one through the Ages of human advancement. Ages divide history into distinct playable chapters, each designed to immerse the player in the essence of these time periods. We have three Ages for you to experience:
Antiquity Age: When agricultural societies began to cluster into urban centers, forming the foundations of the very first civilizations.Exploration Age: When the desire for precious commodities from distant lands spurred empires to stretch across the great oceans.Modern Age: A period of incredible technological growth and global conflict, where mankind goes from development of the steam engine to the splitting of the atom.
What’s particularly interesting about Ages, and separates it from previous Civilization features like Eras, is that for the first time you aren’t just playing as a single civilization. Instead, you build a unique cultural lineage in Civilization VII , where your empire is represented by different civilizations during each Age. You’ll be able to carry forward your past civilization’s legacy, while also playing as a new Civ in the new Age – one with refreshed abilities, unique units, buildings and more!
This idea is a revolutionary one for Civilization, and merits some more detail. To explain, let me take you back to the original foundational idea for Civilization VII – a design mantra we call “History is Built in Layers.”
History is Built in Layers A few years after we shipped the last Civ game, the design team at Firaxis Games sat down to begin planning out what we wanted to see in Civilization VII . Designing a new Civ game is a unique challenge and we take feedback from all areas. We think about what we’d like to improve on, we hear what the community is asking for, and we look at what players are doing in our games to see how we can make that experience even better.
One area of inspiration for us is, as you might guess, history itself. So I took a trip to London – a big, sprawling modern city, and thought about its past. London was originally an ancient Roman settlement called Londinium, established on the far reaches of the Roman Empire. Back then, it looked very much like any other Roman town, with a forum, bathhouses, and temples.
After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Londinium was largely abandoned. Eventually, the Normans, following their conquest in the 11th century, established what would become Medieval London. On top of the old Roman ruins, new buildings were constructed, including fortifications, churches, and markets. However, Medieval London also faced hardships, such as the devastation of the Black Death.
Fast forward a few centuries, and the Industrial Revolution ushered in what would be Victorian London. This era saw the transformation of the city with new constructions like factories, railways, and commercial buildings, replacing or repurposing many older medieval structures.
This sparked an idea for us – what if you could build your empire in the same way? Where you could experience the same type of journey that London went through: going through different Ages, the identity of your empire represented by different civilizations from that time period. And as a video game, what if you could determine which direction your empire evolved? Imagine if, instead of the Normans, the Spanish had taken control of London? How would that change the future?
Forge Your Path Through the Ages That’s the unique journey we want you to experience in Civilization VII . During each Age, you’ll select a historical civilization relevant to that time. You’ll compete and cooperate with rival civilizations and face the unique challenges of that Age. As you progress from one Age to the next, you’ll choose a new civilization to represent your empire—determined not just by historical connections, but also by the actions you can take as a player. Over the course of a campaign, as you carry your legacy forward from one Age to the next, you’ll build a unique cultural lineage for your empire – one that may even stand the test of time.
Civilization VII promises to be a revolutionary new chapter for the franchise, and today is just the first step in our journey to February 11, 2025. You can watch our official gameplay showcase for more details; for the latest information on Civilization VII , visit www.civilization.com and follow the game across YouTube , Facebook , X , Instagram and TikTok .
Sid Meier's Civilization® VII
Pre-order Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Standard Edition and receive the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack!* The Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack is included as part of the Deluxe and Founders Editions.
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.
BUILD AN EMPIRE THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME
Lead your empire through distinct Ages of human history. Each Age is its own rich, nuanced journey, with unique playable civilizations, available resources, explorable land, and even entire gameplay systems, creating a deep, historically immersive strategy experience. Strive to accomplish significant scientific, cultural, militaristic, and economic milestones within each Age to unlock impactful advantages in the next!
EVOLVE YOUR EMPIRE AS EACH NEW AGE DAWNS
To build a legacy that truly stands the test of time, you must adapt. Forge your own path through history as you reshape your empire at the start of each Age, selecting from a pool of new Age-relevant civilization options determined by your prior gameplay accomplishments. Evolving your empire unlocks fresh gameplay bonuses and unique units, so your current civilization is always at the height of its power.
PLAY AS VISIONARY LEADERS OF PROGRESS
Embody an illustrious leader with one of Civilization's most diverse rosters yet, from traditional heads of state known for their militaristic might or political prowess, to visionary leaders who made everlasting impacts in philosophy, science, human rights, and more! Each leader possesses a unique ability and can further be improved with customizable attributes earned through gameplay, empowering you to reinforce or pivot your strategy from one Age into the next. For the first time in franchise history, you can choose your leader separately from your civilization, giving you the freedom to create all-new strategies by mixing and matching gameplay bonuses.
EXPLORE A WORLD BROUGHT TO LIFE LIKE NEVER BEFORE
Make your mark on a gorgeously detailed world! Your empire comes to life with a vast, diverse range of cultural styles, represented across building architecture and unit design. Face-to-face interactions with other historic leaders immerse you in every act of diplomacy and declaration of war. As your territory expands and your cities continue to develop, lavishly rendered vistas of your empire seamlessly connect to create a vibrant metropolis.
TEST YOUR STRATEGIC METTLE IN MULTIPLAYER
Compete against other players online and prove your prowess as a great leader.** Multiplayer matches can be epic multi-Age campaigns, or take place in a single Age so you can enjoy an entire game in a single session. Cross-play is supported, so you can play together with friends wherever they are.
AN ENJOYABLE STRATEGY EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
With more than 30 years of franchise legacy to draw from, Civilization VII features a vast wealth of gameplay improvements that will thrill series veterans and newcomers alike. The overhauled tutorial experience and refined gameplay systems make jumping into Civilization easier than ever, while returning players will appreciate a massive suite of gameplay improvements. Move your army as one under the leadership of a commander, unlock progression bonuses for your leaders across multiple gameplay sessions, traverse navigable rivers, and much, much more!
*Pre-order offer available until February 11, 2025. Internet connection required to redeem bonus content. Terms apply.
**Online play and features (including progression bonuses) require an Internet connection and 2K Account (minimum age varies). Up to five players supported in the Antiquity & Exploration Ages. Up to eight players supported in the Modern Age. Map size restrictions may apply to certain cross-play multiplayer games. More info available here: https://2kgam.es/Civ7FAQ. Console online play requires a separate paid subscription. Terms apply.
Software Terms of Service (ToS) in game and at www.take2games.com/legal.
Non-transferable access to special features, such as exclusive/unlockable/downloadable/online & bonus content/services/functions/multiplayer services, may require single-use serial code, additional fee, and/or non-transferable online account registration (minimum age varies). See www.take2games.com/legal and www.take2games.com/privacy for additional details. Special feature access may require internet connection, may not be available to all users or at all times, and may be terminated, modified, or offered under different terms without notice.
Violation of ToS, Code of Conduct, or other policies may result in restriction or termination of access to game or online account. Online play and download requires broadband internet service, and may require a separate paid platform subscription and account registration. User responsible for associated fees. Unauthorized copying, alteration, reverse engineering, decompiling, transmission, public performance, rental, pay for play, or copy protection circumvention is prohibited and violates the ToS.
©2024 Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Sid Meier’s Civilization, Civilization, Civ, 2K, Firaxis Games, Take-Two Interactive Software and their respective logos are all trademarks of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. All other marks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Deluxe Edition
Expand the strategic horizons of your empire and enjoy more options for your reign with Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Deluxe Edition! Purchasing Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Deluxe Edition entitles digital versions of the game on both Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One!
Deluxe Edition includes:
• Full base game
• Early Access – play the game early on February 6, 2025
• Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack
• Crossroads of the World Collection, with post-launch content featuring 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more!
• Deluxe Content Pack, which includes:
– 2 leader personas
– 4 profile customizations
– 1 alternate scout skin
EARLY ACCESS
Play Civilization VII on February 6, 2025, up to 5 days ahead of the official launch date.
TECUMSEH AND SHAWNEE PACK
This content pack adds the leader Tecumseh and the Shawnee civilization to Civilization VII!
Tecumseh specializes in diplomacy and defense. His unique ability, Nicaakiyakoolaakwe, increases food, production, and combat strength based on the number of allied city-states.
Shawnee is an Exploration Age civilization that excels at utilizing natural resources. Their unique ability, Nepekifaki, gives more food for settlements built on river tiles but slightly reduces food for any cities not built on rivers. Its associated wonder is the Serpent Mound.
CROSSROADS OF THE WORLD COLLECTION
Explore new possibilities for your personalized empire with post-launch add-on content, including 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more! Full details of the Crossroads of the World Collection will be revealed at a later date.
DELUXE CONTENT PACK
2 leader personas
Each persona offers a new variant of an existing leader, including a different outfit and background for that leader, new gameplay bonuses, and an alternative agenda that reflects a different side of their personality! The two personas included in this edition will be revealed at a later date.
4 profile customizations
Embellish your player profile with these cosmetic customizations, including a striking new badge, a regal new title, an ornate new banner, and an eye-catching new portrait that will all make you stand out from other players!
1 alternate scout skin
Give your scout recon unit a brand new look with this cosmetic outfit!
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.
BUILD AN EMPIRE THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME
Lead your empire through distinct Ages of human history. Each Age is its own rich, nuanced journey, with unique playable civilizations, available resources, explorable land, and even entire gameplay systems, creating a deep, historically immersive strategy experience. Strive to accomplish significant scientific, cultural, militaristic, and economic milestones within each Age to unlock impactful advantages in the next!
EVOLVE YOUR EMPIRE AS EACH NEW AGE DAWNS
To build a legacy that truly stands the test of time, you must adapt. Forge your own path through history as you reshape your empire at the start of each Age, selecting from a pool of new Age-relevant civilization options determined by your prior gameplay accomplishments. Evolving your empire unlocks fresh gameplay bonuses and unique units, so your current civilization is always at the height of its power.
PLAY AS VISIONARY LEADERS OF PROGRESS
Embody an illustrious leader with one of Civilization's most diverse rosters yet, from traditional heads of state known for their militaristic might or political prowess, to visionary leaders who made everlasting impacts in philosophy, science, human rights, and more! Each leader possesses a unique ability and can further be improved with customizable attributes earned through gameplay, empowering you to reinforce or pivot your strategy from one Age into the next. For the first time in franchise history, you can choose your leader separately from your civilization, giving you the freedom to create all-new strategies by mixing and matching gameplay bonuses.
EXPLORE A WORLD BROUGHT TO LIFE LIKE NEVER BEFORE
Make your mark on a gorgeously detailed world! Your empire comes to life with a vast, diverse range of cultural styles, represented across building architecture and unit design. Face-to-face interactions with other historic leaders immerse you in every act of diplomacy and declaration of war. As your territory expands and your cities continue to develop, lavishly rendered vistas of your empire seamlessly connect to create a vibrant metropolis.
TEST YOUR STRATEGIC METTLE IN MULTIPLAYER
Compete against other players online and prove your prowess as a great leader.* Multiplayer matches can be epic multi-Age campaigns, or take place in a single Age so you can enjoy an entire game in a single session. Cross-play is supported, so you can play together with friends wherever they are.
AN ENJOYABLE STRATEGY EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
With more than 30 years of franchise legacy to draw from, Civilization VII features a vast wealth of gameplay improvements that will thrill series veterans and newcomers alike. The overhauled tutorial experience and refined gameplay systems make jumping into Civilization easier than ever, while returning players will appreciate a massive suite of gameplay improvements. Move your army as one under the leadership of a commander, unlock progression bonuses for your leaders across multiple gameplay sessions, traverse navigable rivers, and much, much more!
*Online play and features (including progression bonuses) require an Internet connection and 2K Account (minimum age varies). Up to five players supported in the Antiquity & Exploration Ages. Up to eight players supported in the Modern Age. Map size restrictions may apply to certain cross-play multiplayer games. More info available here: https://2kgam.es/Civ7FAQ. Console online play requires a separate paid subscription. Terms apply.
Software Terms of Service (ToS) in game and at www.take2games.com/legal.
Non-transferable access to special features, such as exclusive/unlockable/downloadable/online & bonus content/services/functions/multiplayer services, may require single-use serial code, additional fee, and/or non-transferable online account registration (minimum age varies). See www.take2games.com/legal and www.take2games.com/privacy for additional details. Special feature access may require internet connection, may not be available to all users or at all times, and may be terminated, modified, or offered under different terms without notice.
Violation of ToS, Code of Conduct, or other policies may result in restriction or termination of access to game or online account. Online play and download requires broadband internet service, and may require a separate paid platform subscription and account registration. User responsible for associated fees. Unauthorized copying, alteration, reverse engineering, decompiling, transmission, public performance, rental, pay for play, or copy protection circumvention is prohibited and violates the ToS.
©2024 Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Sid Meier’s Civilization, Civilization, Civ, 2K, Firaxis Games, Take-Two Interactive Software and their respective logos are all trademarks of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. All other marks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Founders Edition
Expand the strategic horizons of your empire and enjoy more options for your reign with Sid Meier's Civilization® VII Founders Edition! This digital-only edition is only available until February 28, 2025—get it now before it's history. Purchasing Sid Meier's Civilization VII Founders Edition entitles digital versions of the game on both Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One!
Founders Edition includes:
• Full base game
• Early Access – play the game up to 5 days early on February 6, 2025
• Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack
• Crossroads of the World Collection, with post-launch content featuring 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more
• Right to Rule Collection, with post-launch content featuring 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more!*
• Deluxe Content Pack, which includes:
– 2 leader personas
– 4 profile customizations
– 1 alternate scout skin
• Founders Content Pack, which includes:
– 2 leader personas
– 4 profile customizations
– 1 fog of war tile set
– 1 Founders palace skin
EARLY ACCESS
Play Civilization VII on February 6, 2025, up to 5 days ahead of the official launch date.
TECUMSEH AND SHAWNEE PACK
This content pack adds the leader Tecumseh and the Shawnee civilization to Civilization VII!
Tecumseh specializes in diplomacy and defense. His unique ability, Nicaakiyakoolaakwe, increases food, production, and combat strength based on the number of allied city-states.
Shawnee is an Exploration Age civilization that excels at utilizing natural resources. Their unique ability, Nepekifaki, gives more food for settlements built on river tiles but slightly reduces food for any cities not built on rivers. Its associated wonder is the Serpent Mound.
CROSSROADS OF THE WORLD COLLECTION
Explore new possibilities for your personalized empire with post-launch add-on content, including 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more! Full details will be revealed at a later date.
RIGHT TO RULE COLLECTION
Explore new possibilities for your personalized empire with even more post-launch add-on content, including 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more! Full details will be revealed at a later date.
DELUXE & FOUNDERS CONTENT PACKS
Content listed below is inclusive of content included from the Deluxe Content Pack.
4 leader personas
Each persona offers a new variant of an existing leader, including a different outfit and background for that leader, new gameplay bonuses, and an alternative agenda that reflects a different side of their personality! The personas included in this edition will be revealed at a later date.
8 profile customizations
Embellish your player profile with these cosmetic customizations, including a striking new badge, a regal new title, an ornate new banner, and an eye-catching new portrait that will all make you stand out from other players!
1 fog of war tile set
Change your gameplay landscape with a beautiful fog of war tile set that changes in each Age!
1 alternate scout skin
Give your scout recon unit a brand new look with this cosmetic outfit!
1 Founders palace skin
Give your civ's palace a regal new look with a glorious remodel that's sure to stand out!
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.
BUILD AN EMPIRE THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME
Lead your empire through distinct Ages of human history. Each Age is its own rich, nuanced journey, with unique playable civilizations, available resources, explorable land, and even entire gameplay systems, creating a deep, historically immersive strategy experience. Strive to accomplish significant scientific, cultural, militaristic, and economic milestones within each Age to unlock impactful advantages in the next!
EVOLVE YOUR EMPIRE AS EACH NEW AGE DAWNS
To build a legacy that truly stands the test of time, you must adapt. Forge your own path through history as you reshape your empire at the start of each Age, selecting from a pool of new Age-relevant civilization options determined by your prior gameplay accomplishments. Evolving your empire unlocks fresh gameplay bonuses and unique units, so your current civilization is always at the height of its power.
PLAY AS VISIONARY LEADERS OF PROGRESS
Embody an illustrious leader with one of Civilization's most diverse rosters yet, from traditional heads of state known for their militaristic might or political prowess, to visionary leaders who made everlasting impacts in philosophy, science, human rights, and more! Each leader possesses a unique ability and can further be improved with customizable attributes earned through gameplay, empowering you to reinforce or pivot your strategy from one Age into the next. For the first time in franchise history, you can choose your leader separately from your civilization, giving you the freedom to create all-new strategies by mixing and matching gameplay bonuses.
EXPLORE A WORLD BROUGHT TO LIFE LIKE NEVER BEFORE
Make your mark on a gorgeously detailed world! Your empire comes to life with a vast, diverse range of cultural styles, represented across building architecture and unit design. Face-to-face interactions with other historic leaders immerse you in every act of diplomacy and declaration of war. As your territory expands and your cities continue to develop, lavishly rendered vistas of your empire seamlessly connect to create a vibrant metropolis.
TEST YOUR STRATEGIC METTLE IN MULTIPLAYER
Compete against other players online and prove your prowess as a great leader.** Multiplayer matches can be epic multi-Age campaigns, or take place in a single Age so you can enjoy an entire game in a single session. Cross-play is supported, so you can play together with friends wherever they are.
AN ENJOYABLE STRATEGY EXPERIENCE FOR ALL
With more than 30 years of franchise legacy to draw from, Civilization VII features a vast wealth of gameplay improvements that will thrill series veterans and newcomers alike. The overhauled tutorial experience and refined gameplay systems make jumping into Civilization easier than ever, while returning players will appreciate a massive suite of gameplay improvements. Move your army as one under the leadership of a commander, unlock progression bonuses for your leaders across multiple gameplay sessions, traverse navigable rivers, and much, much more!
*The Right To Rule Collection contains 6 DLCs, all of which will be available on or by September 2025 (subject to change). Each DLC will be delivered automatically in-game on release.
**Online play and features (including progression bonuses) require an Internet connection and 2K Account (minimum age varies). Up to five players supported in the Antiquity & Exploration Ages. Up to eight players supported in the Modern Age. Map size restrictions may apply to certain cross-play multiplayer games. More info available here: https://2kgam.es/Civ7FAQ. Console online play requires a separate paid subscription. Terms apply.
Software Terms of Service (ToS) in game and at www.take2games.com/legal.
Non-transferable access to special features, such as exclusive/unlockable/downloadable/online & bonus content/services/functions/multiplayer services, may require single-use serial code, additional fee, and/or non-transferable online account registration (minimum age varies). See www.take2games.com/legal and www.take2games.com/privacy for additional details. Special feature access may require internet connection, may not be available to all users or at all times, and may be terminated, modified, or offered under different terms without notice.
Violation of ToS, Code of Conduct, or other policies may result in restriction or termination of access to game or online account. Online play and download requires broadband internet service, and may require a separate paid platform subscription and account registration. User responsible for associated fees. Unauthorized copying, alteration, reverse engineering, decompiling, transmission, public performance, rental, pay for play, or copy protection circumvention is prohibited and violates the ToS.
©2024 Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Sid Meier’s Civilization, Civilization, Civ, 2K, Firaxis Games, Take-Two Interactive Software and their respective logos are all trademarks of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. All other marks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
The post Sid Meier’s Civilization VII Revolutionizes the Strategy Classic by Building History in Layers appeared first on Xbox Wire .
