Civilization 7: Ranking the Best Exploration Civilizations

In Civilization 7, the Exploration Age is all about expanding your territory by outmaneuvering both your rivals and allies, whether they’re close by or far away. Building on the foundation established in the Antiquity Age, this is your moment to strategize for an ultimate win in the Modern Age.

Choosing your civilization in the Exploration Age isn’t just a trivial decision—it’s impactful. There are eleven civilizations available, each boasting unique strengths and attributes, though not all might be accessible in every game due to specific unlock requirements. However, whatever your options, our tier list for Civ 7’s Exploration Age civilizations is here to help you make an informed choice.

Your Civ 7 leader adds even more layers of strategy, providing your playstyle with additional boosts. Pairing them with the right civilization can result in powerful synergies, so while our tier list evaluates the standalone power of each civilization, remember to consider how they interact with your chosen leader.

Civ 7 Exploration Civs Tier List

• S-tier: Mongolia, Shawnee, Norman
• A-tier: Chola, Ming
• B-tier: Abbasid, Hawai’i, Inca, Songhai
• C-tier: Majapahit, Spain

S-Tier Exploration Civs

These civilizations are the cream of the crop in Civilization 7. Thanks to their strong military units and powerful resource access, they allow you to dominate the map.

Mongolia

Mongolia plays the role of the aggressive land grabber, a fitting continuation from the Persia civilization. Though there’s nothing visually striking about it, Mongolia’s might lies in its capacity to become a dominant force on the map. It directly promotes the Military Legacy by enhancing the Non Sufficit Orbis path. With Cavalry units growing stronger the more you expand, and with additional firepower from units like the Keshig and Noyan, Mongolia is a go-to for those seeking a Military victory.

Shawnee

With their Nepekifaki trait, Shawnee settlements adjacent to navigable rivers gain impressive food boosts, encouraging rapid population and territorial expansion. Their Kispoko Nena’to Infantry unit becomes especially formidable with unique resources, allowing Shawnee to become both a military and economic force.

Norman

The Normans offer versatile benefits that align with Exploration Age’s objectives. Their land units benefit from increased mobility when embarked, essential for quickly reaching distant lands. This civilization’s bonuses make them formidable foes, bolstered by units like the Chevaler, which excels against slower forces.

A-Tier Exploration Civs

These are civilizations that offer robust benefits, especially for players who strategically utilize their strengths.

Chola

Chola shines at sea, with powerful naval units like the Kalam capable of multiple attacks and strategic trade buffs that enhance gold acquisition. Though their scientific potential might lag, establishing coastal access ensures they leverage their full potential.

Ming

Ming provides enormous scientific advancements through significant boosts in the Capital’s science output. However, managing social policies is crucial to mitigate science penalties; doing so rewards players with accelerated technological gains and a fortified Great Wall.

B-Tier Exploration Civs

This tier features reliable civilizations with situational potential, offering specialized but sometimes limited advantages.

Abbasid

When managed effectively, Abbasid thrives through gold gains based on population and urban zone bonuses. While their Mamluk unit provides strong defensive capabilities, they require careful specialist management to fully exploit their strengths.

Hawai’i

Hawai’i benefits from marine expansions and offers solid naval unit bonuses, making them ideal along coastlines. Their Leiomano unit excels in ground combat, providing consistency and easy-to-access bonuses.

Inca

Playing as Inca works best with pre-planned borders in mountainous regions. Their use of mountain terrain yields production and food benefits, and with scouts like the Chasqui exploring new lands, they make mountain-heavy maps advantageous.

Songhai

Songhai focuses on generating gold, with their strengths lying in economic development, though they may lack on other frontage like influence or science. Their monetary focus and resource-based combat benefits suit a very specific strategy.

C-Tier Exploration Civs

These civilizations often require a more nuanced strategy or may be more situational, which could be better suited for seasoned players.

Majapahit

Majapahit brings potential cultural gains but requires specific landscape features to shine. Although they offer decent naval strength and are culturally adept, their overall impact may not be significant enough to turn tides in a player’s favor.

Spain

Though Spain excels at early gold acquisition, it struggles to stand out in other areas. Its unit strength and economic benefits can be useful but might feel underwhelming compared to other civilizations.

Patrick is a gaming journalist with over 13 years of experience, delving deep into game mechanics and strategies. With thousands of hours in both Overwatch 2 and Destiny 2, his expertise is evident.