Civ 7 Redefines What it Means to Be a Leader

Civilization's leaders are iconic, but Firaxis' approach to selecting national representatives has evolved. This article explores Civilization VII's leader roster and its innovative approach to leadership.

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Civ VII: A New Definition of Leadership

Leaders have been central to Civilization since its inception, defining each civilization's identity. While their role remains crucial, their representation has diversified across the series. Each installment refines the concept of leadership and its impact on gameplay.

This exploration traces Civilization's leader evolution, highlighting changes across iterations and examining how Civilization VII presents a unique lineup.

Early Civilization: A Superpower Focus

The original Civilization featured a relatively small roster, predominantly representing global superpowers of the early 1990s and historical antiquity. Leaders were typically heads of state, reflecting a straightforward, widely recognized approach.

With only 15 civilizations—including America, Rome, Greece, Japan, China, France, Egypt, and Russia—the focus was on established, globally known figures like Abraham Lincoln, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Mahatma Gandhi, and Julius Caesar. The inclusion of figures like Mao Zedong and Joseph Stalin, alongside Elizabeth I as the sole female leader, reflects the era's perspective. While understandable for its time, this approach paved the way for future innovations.

Civilization II-V: Expanding Diversity and Creativity

Civilization II expanded the roster and introduced a separate female leader roster, offering choices for each civilization. The definition of "leader" broadened to include pivotal figures beyond heads of state, such as Sacagawea (Sioux) and Amaterasu (Japan).

Civilization III integrated female leaders into the main roster, with notable replacements like Joan of Arc for France and Catherine the Great for Russia.

Civilization IV and V significantly expanded the roster and definition of leadership. Revolutionaries, generals, and reformers became common, with major civilizations often featuring multiple leaders. This shift highlighted a broader narrative encompassing a wider range of historical figures.

Civilization VI: Enhanced Characterization and Creativity

Civilization VI emphasized characterization, diversity, and creativity, presenting leaders as stylized animated figures. Leader Personas—alternative versions highlighting different aspects of a leader's personality—offered varied playstyles. Lesser-known figures from various civilizations gained prominence, including Lautaro (Mapuche) and Bà Triệu (Vietnam).

The introduction of multiple leader options for some civilizations (e.g., America, China) and the expansion of Leader Personas (Catherine de Medici, Theodore Roosevelt, etc.) further broadened the roster's diversity.

Civilization VII: A Fresh Perspective on Leadership

Civilization VII showcases the most diverse and creative roster yet. Its mix-and-match approach to civilizations and leaders allows even lesser-known figures to take center stage. Harriet Tubman's inclusion as an American abolitionist leader exemplifies this shift.

Niccolò Machiavelli's presence, despite not being a head of state, highlights the focus on influential figures. José Rizal's inclusion as a Philippine leader focused on diplomacy and narrative events represents a significant change.

Civilization's evolution from a game focused on superpowers to one encompassing a diverse range of influential figures reflects a broader, more inclusive narrative of humanity. The definition of leadership has changed, but its importance remains constant.

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