Embark on an expansive journey through history as you guide a civilization from its nascent stages to a globally influential empire. This main game experience centers on intricate strategic decision-making and long-term planning. Players select from a roster of legendary historical leaders, each possessing unique strengths and perspectives. The fundamental gameplay loop involves establishing and expanding your civilization through city construction, technological advancement, cultural development, and engaging in diplomacy or conflict with rival nations. The ultimate objective is to achieve dominance or lasting prosperity, forging a legacy that endures through the ages.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

At its core, this is a turn-based strategy game where every choice carries weight. You will manage resources, research new technologies, construct significant wonders, and develop your cities to foster growth and ensure defense. Exploration is crucial for discovering new territories, valuable resources, and potential allies or adversaries. Diplomacy offers avenues for negotiation, trade, and the formation of alliances, while military conquest provides a direct route for expansion. The game features multiple victory conditions, promoting diverse strategic approaches and enhancing replayability.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The defining characteristic of this title lies in its comprehensive simulation of societal progression across millennia. Players are tasked with navigating the complexities of leadership, from managing the needs of their populace to interacting with a dynamic world populated by other civilizations. The sheer scope of historical eras to traverse, combined with the intricate web of interconnected systems – encompassing economics, culture, warfare, and science – delivers a deeply engaging strategic challenge.

Key Features

Historical Leaders and Civilizations

Select from a diverse array of historical figures, each endowed with unique abilities and starting biases that shape your gameplay experience. These leaders are woven into the game's progression, presenting distinct challenges and opportunities.

City Management and Expansion

Found new cities, develop their infrastructure, and manage their growth to maximize their potential. The strategic placement of cities and the selection of buildings within them are critical for resource generation, defense, and cultural output.

Technological and Cultural Advancement

Research an extensive tree of technologies and cultural advancements, unlocking new units, buildings, and abilities that influence your civilization's trajectory. This progression spans from ancient times through to the modern era.

Diplomacy and Warfare

Engage with other civilizations through diplomatic channels, forging alliances, declaring war, or participating in trade. The AI-driven leaders present a dynamic and often unpredictable geopolitical landscape.

Game Information

This main game was released on February 11, 2025. It is accessible on a broad spectrum of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Mac, and Xbox One.

Additional Content

The game includes 17 downloadable content (DLC) packs that introduce additional leaders, scenarios, and gameplay enhancements, serving to expand the core experience.