Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 has hit a significant milestone. The developers at Firaxis Games and their publisher, 2K, recently announced that the game has gone gold, putting it on track for its big release on February 11, 2025. For those not in the know, going gold means the game is fully developed, and the copies are being prepped for shipping, ready to hit the shelves soon.
The Civilization series has long been a staple in strategy gaming circles, first debuting back in 1991. It’s the brainchild of Sid Meier, a revered figure in the gaming world. With seven chapters, including the latest one, the series is packed with expansions and even spin-offs, not to mention board games. This next installment will be accessible on various platforms like PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. Excitingly, Valve’s recognized the game for its compatibility with the Steam Deck—marking a first for the franchise.
In a playful post, the official Civilization 7 Twitter account shared the gold status news with the caption, “We’ve struck gold!” Fans of the series have plenty to look forward to, with refreshed battle mechanics and a chance for leaders to break away from traditional nation ties. The game includes robust multiplayer setups, whether you want a quick single-age bout or a sprawling multi-age campaign. There’s cross-play support, ensuring you can team up or face off with friends regardless of which console they wield. A cool feature lets players take either a historically grounded approach or blaze their own unique path, shaping their destiny throughout gameplay.
Several beloved features from previous games are set to make a comeback, such as iconic wonders like the Terracotta Army and the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. This nod to earlier installments has fans buzzing, many of whom are already eagerly anticipating “one more turn.” The chatter suggests pre-orders are brisk, with players eager for the game’s debut.
Speaking of pre-orders, Civilization 7 offers several enticing special editions. Players can choose from Standard, Deluxe, Founders, or the high-end Collector’s Editions. The Collector’s Edition, priced at $279.99, packs in exclusive items like a real-working clock themed on the Passage of Time, a Scout figure, and a Yield Icon Patch Set, to name a few. Additionally, those opting for the Standard Edition will unlock the Tecumseh Leader and the Shawnee Civilization as well.
This upcoming installment promises to deliver the depth and strategic complexity that has earned the Civilization series countless fans over the years. Those looking to shape history—or rewrite it altogether—will find plenty of opportunities as they craft cities, chase technology, and engage with other civilizations, whether peacefully or through conquest. Civilization 7 looks set to be the next big thing in turn-based strategy, blending the old with new twists that could capture the imagination of both veteran players and newcomers alike.
