Civilization 7 may follow in the footsteps of the series’ history, but there’s no doubt that it presents a bold vision for the future of the franchise. Whether its most drastic decisions will be remembered fondly remains to be seen, but the most controversial change has already become clear. Civilization 7 introduces a brand-new take on Ages, which is so far the defining feature of the game as a whole.
Although the game shares all the same bones as its predecessors, Civilization 7‘s Age System is a huge change of pace for the series. Rather than lead a single Civilization throughout its evolving history, the game is now sliced into three different parts of a whole. The Modern Age represents the endgame of Civilization 7, and is vital for players looking to round out their experience.
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Civilization 7’s Modern Age Makes the Difference Between Victory or Defeat
What Time Period Does the Modern Age Span?
Civilization 7 puts a strong level of attention to detail in making its Ages closely represent their historical counterparts. Civilization 7‘s Modern Age is clearly inspired by the historical era of the same name, which is not to be confused with the contemporary period. Contemporary history refers to things going on right now, whereas the Modern era more often begins in the 19th century and cuts off near the end of World War II.
What Civilizations Are Available within the Modern Age?
Rather than being tied together for the entire game, Civilization 7‘s Leaders and Civs can be freely mixed and matched to serve a player’s particular strategy. Likewise, players are no longer locked into a single Civilization’s lineage. Age Transitions serve as a natural point for players to change what Civ they are playing, which can even allow them to completely branch away from the typical course of history.
However, player choice isn’t completely limitless in this regard. Civilizations are generally tied down to the Age that their inspiration comes from. Furthermore, many Civilizations are only available if players have met certain conditions. Players are softly encouraged to follow a Civilization’s historical lineage, as doing so can provide a number of tactical benefits. Otherwise, they can easily choose to ignore these suggestions and diverge into any number of unlikely combinations.
Civilizations available during the Modern Age:
- America
- Buganda
- French Empire
- Meiji Japan
- Mexico
- Mughal India
- Prussia
- Qing China
- Russia
- Siam
Player Goals for Civilization 7’s Modern Age
Civilization 7‘s Victories manifest in four different categories: Culture, Economic, Military, and Science. By this point in the game, everyone should hopefully have a fairly good idea of which victory they want to pursue. To that end, there is little one can do to fully understand their goal for this age beyond simply following the course they have already set in prior Ages.
This can take any number of forms as well. Players pursuing a Military Victory will want to conquer settlements that belong to Civilizations with an opposing Ideology. Meanwhile, achieving a Science Victory requires players to go all in on the Space Race. Some have described the end of Civilization 7‘s Modern Age as somewhat anti-climactic. Players have fewer options for Victory compared to Civilization 6, and achieving any Victory often comes down to finishing a checklist. Regardless, players should keep a close eye on their opponents’ goals if they want to avoid any meddling on their road to the finish line.
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.
Grand Strategy
Turn-Based Strategy
4X
- Released
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February 11, 2025