Civilization 7’s Massive Test of Time Update Is Out Now on Nintendo Platforms
Long-time readers will know that I’m a massive fan of the Sid Meier’s Civilization VII franchise, and while I really enjoyed Civilization VII at launch, many longtime fans were left divided by some of the sweeping changes Firaxis introduced. That’s where the newly released Test of Time Update comes in, delivering the biggest overhaul the game has seen so far and addressing many of the community’s concerns in the process.
Today, 2K and Firaxis Games announced that the Test of Time Update is now available across all platforms. Described as the largest and most fundamentally game-changing update to Civilization VII to date, the free update has been shaped by more than a year of community feedback, iteration, and playtesting.
One of the headline additions is Time-Tested Civilisations, which finally allows players to stick with a single civilisation for an entire campaign. Players can still evolve into a different civilisation during Age Transitions if they choose, though the new Syncretism mechanic introduces fresh ways to customise your empire by adopting Unique Units or Infrastructure from another civilisation currently in its Apex Age. Players can also use Affirmation to further strengthen what already makes their chosen civilisation unique.
The update also completely reworks the game’s Victories system. Firaxis says the new structure is designed to reward dominance throughout an entire campaign, with a greater focus on meaningful choices and multiple paths to achieving greatness.
Replacing Legacy Paths is the new Triumphs system, which introduces a range of optional and challenging objectives tied to the game’s six core Attributes: Militaristic, Cultural, Scientific, Economic, Diplomatic, and Expansionist. The goal is to make each campaign feel more distinct from the last.
Alongside these major additions, the Test of Time Update also introduces a new Fractal Continent map, a new Commerce screen, a new Advisor Council, updated map generation, new Narrative Events, updates to Specialists and Biomes, new audio and music, numerous balance changes, and a new free leader in Alexander the Great.
I know what I’m doing this weekend!
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