Competitive Play

Discover the new features of Civilization VII, including distinct Ages, the Influence yield, updated Rivers and Settlements, and strategic Age transitions for competitive play.

Civilization VII introduces several new features designed to deepen strategic gameplay and competitive play. The game is now divided into three distinct Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Each Age features unique tech and civic trees. Civilizations are bound to one Age, with leaders choosing a new civilization to transform into for the subsequent Age based on gameplay elements and previous choices. A temporary 'Crisis' event occurs during each Age shift, requiring players to implement negative policies to balance the game and prevent snowballing.

A new yield type, 'Influence', is introduced for conducting diplomacy. Rivers are now categorized as small or navigable, running through tiles rather than along their edges, and navigable rivers can be traversed by naval and embarked units. Settlements are divided into 'Cities' and 'Towns', both considered 'Settlements'. Towns initially produce only Gold and can be upgraded into Cities. Settlement names will appear in their native languages, and their numbers are limited by Age.

Settlers are now split into two units: the 'Founder' Civilian Unit, which establishes the Capital, and subsequent Settlers that can establish Towns. The game also features updated mechanics for resources, production, gold, buildings, and victory conditions, all contributing to a more dynamic and competitive experience.