Civilization 7 - Everything you need to know!

If a game clearly dominates our charts even before release, then it's for good reason. Civilisation 7 is here to conquer the strategy genre. Once again. What you need to know about the game now - a summary.

What is Civilization 7?

Sid Meier's Civilization is a turn-based 4X strategy game series that has been around for almost 35 years. Initially released in 1991 as an MSDOS title, it was even released on 16-bit systems such as the Amiga 500. And now in 2025, Civilization 7 is here, the latest sequel after many very successful spin-offs over the years, developed by Firaxis Games and distributed by 2K. The game will be officially released tomorrow, February 11th. With the Deluxe and Founders Edition you can already play in Advanced Access.

The Civ fanbase has mixed feelings about the seventh instalment. Most Civvers are still enthusiastic and can cope well with the changes. Some are bothered by the modified user interface, as this mainly suits players with game controllers. Others criticise the fact that the transitions between eras are regulated differently in Civilization 7.

In Civ7, the game is divided into three main eras. You start in the Ancient Era, later enter the Exploration phase and eventually end up in the Modern Era. What's different is that when you switch to a new era in Civilization 7, you also choose a new civilisation for your empire. Nevertheless, cities and units are largely retained when adapting to another civilisation. Another new feature is that you can choose leaders of civilisations independently of them. Even philosophers and scientists who have not previously appeared as leaders of states can be engaged as future leaders.

Otherwise, much remains the same, much to the delight of old Civ players. Your empire must expand on hexes on various maps, scout out countries, collect resources and also place buildings and cities in such a way as to maximise resource extraction. Using diplomacy or fighting with soldiers, you will assert yourself on the international stage against other leaders of foreign civilisations and contend with them for land if it makes sense. Graphically, Civilisation 7 is a leap forward. Not a world-shattering one, but at least it is no longer quite as colourful as Civilization 6, for example, which should please fans of more realistic visuals in particular.

Civilisation 7: The best trailers

The new Civilisation now looks beautifully detailed. Less colourful, but all the more authentic in the details of buildings, land and water. Get your own impression of the game - we've put the best trailers in a playlist that you can watch here.

The PC system requirements of Civilization 7

Despite the graphical leap, Civilization 7 is not really demanding in terms of hardware resources. It may only become more critical if you intend to make ends meet with 4K resolution at maximum details. Civilisation 7 requires at least an Intel i3-10100 CPU or an AMD Ryzen 3 1200 CPU. You should also have at least 8 GB of RAM in your PC. Suitable graphics cards for getting started are an NVIDIA GTX 1050, an AMD RX 460 and also an Intel Arc A380 or similar comparable cards.

The recommended configuration for meanwhile settings also remains within the tolerable range. However, if Civ7 is to run at 4K/UHD with at least 60 FPS at high settings, it should ideally be an Intel i7 14700F or an AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU. An RTX 4070 or an RX 7800 XT would be good for 4K operation.

Before you jump into the game, as always we'd recommend making sure you have the latest drivers for your Graphics Card to ensure the smoothest experience at release - AMD / Nvidia.

Civilisation 7 - Minimum system requirements (‘Low’, 1080p, 30 FPS)

Requires 64-bit processor and operating system
Operating system: Win 10 64 bit
Processor: Intel Core i3-10100 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1050 / AMD RX 460 / Intel Arc A380
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 20 GB available SSD space

Civilization 7 - recommended PC configuration (‘Medium’, 1080p, 60 FPS)

Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
Operating system: Win 10 64 bit
Processor: Intel Core i5-10400 / AMD Ryzen 5 3600X
RAM: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 2060 / AMD RX 6600 / Intel Arc A750
DirectX: Version 12
Storage space: 20 GB available SSD storage space

Civilization 7 - PC requirements for Ultra settings (‘High’, 4K, 60 FPS)

Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
Operating system: Win 10 64 bit
Processor: Intel Core i7-14700F / AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
RAM: 32 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 4070 / AMD RX 7800 XT
DirectX: Version 12
Storage space: 20 GB available SSD storage space

Sid Meier's Civilization 7 PC Launch and Advanced Access times

• Advanced Access Start: February 5th at 9pm PT / February 6th at 5am GMT / 6am CET
• Standard Release: February 10th at 9pm PT / February 11th at 5am GMT / 6am CET

Note: A PC Preload is confirmed to not be happening, you'll be able to play at the applicable times above for the version you purchase. Keys will be sent in time for the Advanced Access, or at launch for Standard Edition owners.

Not sure which version is best suited for your needs? Take a look at our version comparison below (or see the full breakdown on our dedicated sub).

Civilization 7 PC Version Comparison

* Pre-order offer is available until February 11, 2025. Internet connection required to unlock bonus content. If purchased after launch, the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack is included in the Deluxe and Founders Editions. Terms and Conditions apply.

** The Crossroads of the World Collection contains six DLCs, all of which will be available in March 2025 (subject to change). Each DLC will be automatically made available in-game upon launch.

*** The Right to Rule Collection contains six DLCs, all of which will be available in or on September 2025 (subject to change). Each DLC will be automatically made available in-game upon launch.

Is Civilisation 7 compatible with the Steam Deck?

Good news for all those who want to play Civ7 on the go or in bed: According to Steam, the game is officially verified for the Steam Deck. This probably also means that it will run on other, similarly powerful PC handhelds, such as the ASUS ROG Ally or the Lenovo Legion Go.

Problems with Civilisation 7? We can help!

We are happy to help if you have technical problems with the PC version of Civilisation 7 or general questions about purchasing and activating the game. We have set up a first aid kit for this purpose. You can also contact our helpful support team at [email protected].