It has been a busy year for the team at Firaxis, and as Civilization VII reaches its first anniversary, Creative Director Ed Beach has reached out to the community to outline a massive roadmap for the future. The “Test of Time” update, an upcoming free overhaul that promises to fundamentally change how the game plays by addressing some of the most vocal feedback from the player base, and boy, have they been vocal. Actually, it was in such a rough shape, I haven’t bought VII, I’m sticking with VI until it’s good… and it sounds like this update is what I was waiting for.
In today’s update, Beach stated:
“Hi Civ fans! For over 30 years, Civilization has challenged players to build an empire to stand the test of time. One year ago, we launched Civilization VII with a vision to push boundaries and introduce new mechanics. Your passion and feedback have shaped the game’s DNA, and today we’re excited to share the future of the franchise.”
Civilization VII Update 1.3.2
Before the massive “Test of Time” overhaul arrives, players can look forward to Update 1.3.2, which is set to go live soon. This patch focuses on refining the existing experience with several quality-of-life improvements. One of the most welcome additions is the introduction of nested tooltips within Production Menus and the Tech & Civics Trees, making it significantly easier to parse complex information on the fly.
Balance remains a priority, with the French Empire receiving a rework, alongside buffs for Dai Viet and a rebalance for the Mughal Empire. Furthermore, a new Appeal Lens is being added to help players identify the best spots for happiness-generating buildings, introducing a distinction between Charming and Breathtaking tile appeal.
To celebrate the anniversary, Firaxis is also bringing back a fan favourite. Gilgamesh, the legendary demigod of Uruk, joins the leader roster and will be free for all players, alongside a commemorative profile badge, banner, and title.
Update 1.3.2 Key Features
- Free Leader: Gilgamesh joins the roster for all players.
- Nested Tooltips: Now available in Production Menus and Tech/Civic trees.
- Civilization Balancing: Reworks and buffs for France, Dai Viet, the Mughal Empire, and the Shawnee.
- AI Improvements: Adjusted diplomacy biases to better reflect leader personalities.
- Coastal Raids: Reworked to align with naval pillaging systems.
- Appeal Lens: New visual tool to identify tile appeal and happiness potential.
The Test of Time Update
Looking further ahead to the spring, the Test of Time update is being described as having a scope similar to a full expansion. Developed through the Firaxis Feature Workshop with community playtesters, this update aims to remove the “railroaded” feeling some players reported at launch.
The most significant change is the removal of Legacy Paths. These are being replaced by Triumphs, a system of optional, challenging objectives tied to six attributes: Militaristic, Cultural, Scientific, Economic, Diplomatic, and Expansionist. Instead of dictating a strategy, Triumphs offer rewards for both standard high-level play and more niche, aggressive strategies.
Playing as One Civilization Through All Ages
Addressing one of the most requested features, Firaxis is introducing the option to stick with a single civilization from start to finish. While the core evolution mechanic remains, players can now choose to continue as their current civilization during an Age Transition.
If you play a civilization outside of its Apex Age (the era where they are at their strongest), you will receive a new Age-appropriate Civic Tree. This includes a Syncretism system, allowing you to adopt unique units or infrastructure from other civilizations in their Apex Age, effectively allowing for custom strategic builds while maintaining your original identity.
Victory Condition Reworks
The way you win the game is also getting a complete overhaul. Victory progress now starts as early as the Antiquity Age, and dominant players can even trigger a win by the Exploration Age.
- Cultural Victory: Achieved via Wonders, Great Works, Natural Wonders, and Celebrations.
- Economic Victory: Focused on assigned Resources, Gold Buildings, Factories, and Treasure Convoys.
- Military Victory: Focused on the conquest and control of Settlements.
- Scientific Victory: An epic Space Race where milestones contribute to the final launch.
What we think
This looks like a massive win for the community. The Age system in Civilization VII was a bold departure for the series, but it clearly divided veterans who missed the “one civ” journey of previous titles. By making the transition optional and introducing the Syncretism mechanic, Firaxis is offering the best of both worlds. The removal of Legacy Paths in favour of Triumphs also suggests a much more open-ended, sandbox feel that the franchise is known for.
Beyond the core game updates, Civilization VII is expanding its reach. The game is set to launch on Apple Arcade on 5 February, handled by the team at Behaviour Interactive.
Where to buy
Civilization VII is available on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. It arrives on Apple Arcade for iPhone and iPad on 5 February.
