Civilization 7 Preview: Firaxis Reinvents the Strategy Classic

After nearly a decade since Civilization VI, Firaxis is ready to deliver the next chapter in the legendary 4X strategy series. Civilization 7 makes bold changes to the formula while preserving the "one more turn" addictiveness that defines the franchise.

The Age System

The biggest change in Civ 7 is the new Age system. Instead of one continuous game from ancient times to the future, Civilization 7 divides history into three distinct Ages:

• Antiquity Age: Ancient civilizations, early warfare, foundations
• Exploration Age: Medieval to Renaissance, expansion, religion
• Modern Age: Industrial revolution to present day

At the end of each Age, you can change your civilization based on your progress, representing how nations evolve over time. Start as Egypt, become Songhai, end as Nigeria.

Leaders and Civilizations Separated

For the first time, leaders are separate from civilizations. Want Cleopatra leading Rome? Benjamin Franklin leading Japan? Now you can. Each leader has unique abilities, while civilizations provide different units and infrastructure.

Streamlined But Deep

Firaxis has streamlined systems that bogged down late-game Civ 6:

• Fewer but impactful buildings: Each construction matters more
• Town system: Smaller settlements that don't require micromanagement
• Automated exploration: Less tedious early game scouting
• Diplomatic actions: Clearer, more meaningful interactions

Concerns from Veterans

Not all fans are convinced by the changes. The Age system means you can't play as one civilization from start to finish—a departure from 30+ years of Civ tradition. The separated leaders feel "ahistorical" to some. Firaxis argues these changes make the game more replayable and historically interesting.

Technical Improvements

Built on a new engine, Civ 7 features improved graphics, better AI, and importantly—faster late-game turns. The notorious "waiting for other civilizations" screen should be significantly reduced.

Cross-Platform Multiplayer

For the first time in the series, Civ 7 supports cross-platform multiplayer between PC and consoles. Play with friends regardless of their platform.