Sid Meier's Civilization VII is a grand strategy game that offers an immersive and complex experience, requiring significant time and effort to fully master its mechanics. While there have been several Civilization titles over the years, Civ 7 introduces new features and reimagined gameplay that promises to attract both newcomers and veteran players. If you're new to the series or strategy games in general, here are some essential tips to help you get started without feeling overwhelmed.
Don't Skip the Tutorials
Civilization 7 has a built-in tutorial designed to help new players understand the game's core mechanics. These tutorials walk you through key concepts such as building settlements, managing resources, and navigating the game's technology and civics systems. Skipping this step may leave you feeling lost in the early stages, so be sure to take the time to read and absorb the information presented.
Additionally, the game provides advisors who guide you throughout your journey. Keep an eye on the different advisor icons—purple for Culture, red for Military, green-gold for Economics, and blue for Science—so you can follow their advice to stay on track.
Setting Up Your First Campaign
The initial setup of your first Civilization VII game can feel intimidating, but it's best to start simple. Choose a leader you're familiar with, even if their specific abilities are unfamiliar. Then, begin your campaign in the Antiquity Age and select one of the recommended civilizations for that leader (e.g., Catherine the Great may suggest Greece or Rome).
For difficulty, beginners should stick with Scribe or Governor levels. Set the game to a small or tiny map and choose Continents or Continents Plus. Under advanced options, set Disaster Intensity to Light and turn off Crises, which can add unnecessary difficulty, especially in your first playthrough. If you're looking to skip the grind and dive straight into the action, you can Buy Sid Meier's Civilization VII Account and experience all the premium features right from the start.
Understand the Age System
Civ 7 is divided into three distinct Ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. Each Age introduces unique civilization options, mechanics, and gameplay features, so learning the basics of each Age helps you plan ahead. The transition between Ages is critical because it involves selecting a new civilization and determining which bonuses will carry over to the next stage.
Pay close attention to these transitions, as many game elements reset at the beginning of each Age. Legacy bonuses from the previous Age can provide significant advantages, so make sure to strategize accordingly.
Use the Civilopedia
The Civilopedia is an invaluable tool for new players. This in-game encyclopedia contains detailed information about every aspect of Civ 7, from unit stats to city-building mechanics. While it can take a bit of time to navigate, it's a great resource for when you need clarification on a specific mechanic or feature.
Search for specific terms or browse through categories to find information. For example, if you're curious about Science buildings, searching for “Library” will give you details on its bonuses. This is a must-have tool when you're learning the ropes.
Focus on a Legacy Path
Each leader and civilization in Civilization 7 has a natural affinity toward one of four Legacy Paths: Science, Culture, Economic, or Military. These paths guide your progress through the Ages and are essential for securing a victory. Early in the game, focus on one of these paths based on your civilization's strengths.
Legacy Points are awarded for reaching milestones along your chosen path, and these points are spent at the start of the next Age to provide powerful bonuses. Advisors will help guide you through your Legacy Path, providing objectives to check off as you advance toward your ultimate goal.
Balance Your Cities and Towns
Cities and towns are central to managing your civilization's economy. When you first start, your settlements will be small towns, which are essential for converting production into gold. Maintaining a balance between towns and cities is key to managing your civilization's growth without overwhelming your resources.
As you expand, remember that there is a soft settlement cap. Exceeding this cap can lead to a Happiness penalty, which negatively impacts your civilization. Always ensure you have enough gold reserves to cover your growing city expenses and unit costs.
Embrace Trial and Error
One of the best ways to learn Civ 7 is through trial and error. Mistakes are inevitable, and they are an important part of understanding the more complex systems in the game. Don't be discouraged by early setbacks—Civilization VII is designed for you to make mistakes and learn from them.
By experimenting with different strategies and observing the results, you'll gradually become more proficient. The game's depth means you'll always discover new strategies and methods, so enjoy the journey!
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Conclusion
Starting out in Civilization 7 can be a daunting experience, but with these beginner-friendly tips, you'll be able to navigate its complexities with more confidence. Focus on understanding the basics, use available resources like the Civilopedia and tutorials, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. The world of Sid Meier's Civilization VII is vast, and the learning curve is part of the fun. Keep playing, keep experimenting, and you'll soon be mastering the game's intricate systems.