WithCivilization 7well into its post-launch development cycle, fans are speculating about which new leaders and civilizations will be included as its DLCs are released. As past entries in the franchise have proven, the beauty ofCivilizationlies in its ability to amplify world history through strategic nuance. But even with multiple installments under its belt,Civstill has room to grow, particularly when it comes to global balance and historical diversity. Luckily, every installment has made great strides toward the inclusion of unique civs for players to try out, and DLCs seal the deal with extra content that they crave to see.Civilization7’s DLC should definitely not be the exception.
Now thatCivilization 7’s DLC roadmaphas been revealed, players already know more leaders and nations are on the way. With new mechanics and ways to achieve a victory shaking up the formula, each DLC pack has the opportunity to do more than add familiar faces—it can introduce fresh perspectives and long-overdue representation.
Expanding Civilization 7’s Global Footprint
For decades,Sid Meier’s Civilizationhas offered players the chance to reshape history through the lens of the world’s most prominent empires. Yet, even after seven core entries and numerous DLCs, notable gaps remain in its representation of global civilizations. Whether underexplored due to historical complexity or simply overlooked in favor of more mainstream choices, many cultures have yet to receive their due inCiv’s strategic spotlight. WithCivilization 7’sDLC on the horizon, Firaxis has an ideal opportunity to fill those gaps.
A future wave of content could focus on underrepresented continents and expand unconventional leadership inCiv 7, such as that ofAda Lovelace. Below is a carefully curated list of nations that not only deserve inclusion but also bring compelling gameplay potential to the table, each one pushing the franchise forward while honoring the depth of global history.
The Taino (Caribbean) Nation – Agueybana
The Taino civilization represents the Indigenous peoples of the Greater Antilles and Bahamas, offering a unique opportunity to explore pre-colonial Caribbean cultures. While the many Taino island nations across the Caribbean existed,Civilization 7can reimagine a history where all nations are unified under one imposing Taino leader: Agueybana. With Agueybana as a leader, this civ would thrive through coastal trade, resource collection, and resilience against colonizing forces. Their bonuses could lean into early maritime expansion and cultural exchange, making them an ideal option for achievingeconomic victories inCiv 7.
Bohemia – King Sigismund
Bohemia has long been overlooked inCivilization, but the region’s tumultuous history during the early Holy Roman Empire offers incredible narrative potential. King Sigismund, one of Bohemia’s rulers during the Hussite Wars, brought with him religious unrest, mercenary tactics, and a military campaign fueled by the fractured politics of the time. A Bohemian civilization would excel in faith-fueled warfare, city sieges, and defensive fortification. Additionally, this Bohemia would be a recognizable nation for fans ofKingdom Come: Deliverance, where players can achieve asecret King Sigismund ending.
Great Benin – Queen Idia
Queen Idia, the powerful Queen Mother of the Edo people in the Kingdom of Benin, presents an essential opportunity to recognize a strong female leader often forgotten. Known for her wisdom and economic strategy, Idia would lead aciv focused on trade networks, artisan production, and diplomatic influence. The Benin Bronzes, famous artworks and a point of cultural pride, could function as one of Great Benin’s unique great works that bolster trade and tourism. This inclusion would honor one of West Africa’s richest civilizations and expand female representation in the game.
A powerhouse of North Africa and Iberia, the Almohads could play a unique continental role with a keen interest on expansion. Their strengths would lie in conquest, theological dominance, andcity-state integration, leveraging their empire’s reach and ideological fervor. With bonuses tied to converted cities and religious unity, the Almohads would be a spiritual and military force.
Returning Nations in Civilization 7’s DLC
Sid Meier’s Civilizationhas been known for its often returning cast of leaders and nations. And if leaders don’t return, long-time players are usually confident in the assumption that the civ will be led by a new figure who will deliver interesting specs and bonuses that will lead to a specific victory condition. Yet,iconic nation and leader combos fromCiv 6were so impactful thatFiraxis should definitely consider reincorporating some familiar places and faces intoCiv 7DLC plans.
Aotearoa (Maori Nation) – Kupe
While theMaori nation inCiv 6was a sea-faring forceto reckon with, a pre-colonial reimagination of the nation inCiv 7could add new depth to potential gameplay routes. Receiving a new life inCiv 7DLC, the Maori, under a leader like Kupe, could undergo a deeper overhaul in DLC form, focusing on storytelling, environmental stewardship, and indigenous sovereignty. Their gameplay could involve map exploration by sea, land preservation mechanics, and culture boosts from nature-friendly development. As the world reckons with sustainability, the Maori’s unique worldview would feel more relevant than ever.
India – Gandhi
Arguably,Civisn’tCivwithoutGandhi and his mythical nuclear impulse. Yet, his absence is notable inCiv 7. While Gandhi’s inclusion in pastCivgames is iconic, a more contemporary interpretation could reimagine India’s scientific potential on the global stage. Representing a country that has become a major player in space exploration, medicine, and renewable energy, modern India can focus on research-driven infrastructure and rapid scientific scaling, setting it apart from previous iterations of the nation. Or, if all else fails, a nuclear war could also be a solution.
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.
