Fans have been waiting a long time for a new entry in theCivilizationfranchise, withCivilization 6having arrived the better part of a decade ago. But that wait is almost over.Developer Firaxishas recently confirmed thatCivilization7has gone gold ahead of its February 11 release date.
For those who might not be caught up on all the technical gaming jargon, “Going Gold” essentially means that a game has entered its final stages of development, and that it’s officially ready for release. But any long-timeCivilizationfan knows that going gold is probably just the beginning of a long journey forCivilization 7.
Civilization 7 Will Likely Follow In Civ 6’s Post-Launch Footsteps
A Brief History of Civilization 6’s Post-Launch Content
Originally released for PC in October 2016,Civilization 6’s post-launchjourney began fairly quickly. Between December 2016 and October 2017, a total of six separate paid DLCs were added toCivilization 6. Each of these added at least one new Civilization and Leader, along with a unique Scenario themed around the Civ’s real-world history, and occasionally one or two new Wonders.
In February 2018,Civilization 6received its first major expansion. Titled “Rise and Fall,” this expansion added a bevy of new mechanics to the game, such as the Loyalty feature and its accompanying Dark Age mechanic. Almost exactly one year later,Civilization 6received its “Gathering Storm” expansion, another large-scale DLC that added an intricate climate system and brought back theDiplomatic victory condition.
In May 2020,Civilization 6’s “New Frontier Pass” began, giving players access to a total of 9 new Leaders, 8 new Civs, and a wealth of new units, Wonders, buildings, and game modes spread across a 10-month period. In November 2022,Civilization 6received its second Pass, this time adding 12 new Leaders to pre-existing Civs.Civilization 6received its final piece of paid DLC in March 2023, almost seven years after the game’s initial release.
Civilization 7 Is Following Suit With DLC
Already, it seems as thoughCivilization 7could be following in its predecessor’s footsteps when it comes to post-launch plans. Firaxis has confirmed two separate DLC passes forCivilization 7.PurchasingCivilization 7’s Deluxe Editionwill give players access to the “Crossroads of the World Collection,” a set of 6 separate DLCs that will contain 2 new Leaders, 4 new Civs, 4 new Wonders, and some cosmetics.
PurchasingCivilization 7’s Founders Editionwill give players the Crossroads of the World Collection and the “Right to Rule Collection,” another set of 6 DLCs that will also bring 2 new Leaders, 4 new Civs, and 4 new Wonders to the game. It’s been confirmed that the Crossroads of the World Collection’s DLC packs will all release by the end of March 2025, and that the Right to Rule DLC packs will be released between April and September 2025, likely dropping one DLC pack per month.
Pre-orderingCivilization 7will also give players access to the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack on launch.
Though Firaxis hasn’t confirmed what Leaders or Civs will be included in these DLCs, some fans have theorized that the Crossroads packs could contain Middle-Eastern Civs such as Babylon and the Ottoman Empire, while the Right to Rule packs could focus on theBritish Empire and Aztecs. This is all pure speculation though.
Regardless of who ends up joining the roster,Civilization 7’s already-confirmed DLC packs show that launch is just the start ofCiv 7’s journey. And ifCiv 7has as much staying power as its predecessor, that journey could last the best part of a decade.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
WHERE TO PLAY
The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter.Sid Meier’s Civilization® VIIempowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!InCivilization 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 inCivilization VII.
