Civilization's leaders are iconic, but Firaxis' approach to selecting national representatives has evolved significantly. This article explores Civilization VII's leader roster and how it redefines leadership throughout the series' history.

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Civ VII: A New Era of Leadership

Since the first game, leaders have been integral to Civilization's identity. Each leader embodies their civilization, impacting gameplay as much as the civilization itself. However, the portrayal and selection of leaders have transformed across the series.

This exploration traces the evolution of Civilization's leader roster, highlighting changes in each iteration and how Civilization VII presents a unique approach to leadership.

Early Civilization: A Superpower Focus

The original Civilization featured a relatively small roster, primarily representing major global powers of the time and historical antiquity. Leaders were almost exclusively heads of state, reflecting the common understanding of leadership at the time. The 15 civilizations included familiar names like America, Rome, and China, with leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and Julius Caesar. The selection prioritized widely recognized figures, with Elizabeth I being a notable exception as the sole female leader.

This straightforward approach, while understandable given the era, paved the way for future innovations.

Civilization II - V: Expanding the Definition of Leadership

Civilization II expanded the roster and included lesser-known powers. Significantly, it introduced a separate female leader roster, offering players more choice. The definition of "leader" broadened to include pivotal figures beyond heads of state, exemplified by Sacagawea (Sioux) and Amaterasu (Japan).

Civilization III integrated female leaders into the main roster, with Joan of Arc replacing Napoleon for France. Subsequent games, Civ IV and Civ V, further expanded the roster and the definition of leadership, encompassing revolutionaries, generals, and reformists. Leaders like Wu Zetian (China) and Victoria I (England) became prominent examples. The focus shifted from solely established leaders to a broader representation of historical figures.

The narrative expanded to encompass a wider range of human stories.

Civilization VI: Characterization and Leader Personas

Civilization VI emphasized characterization and creativity, introducing stylized animated leaders. The introduction of Leader Personas – alternative versions of the same leader with different playstyles – added depth and variety. Lesser-known figures like Lautaro (Mapuche) and Bà Triệu (Vietnam) gained prominence. The game also introduced civilizations with multiple leader options, such as America (Lincoln or Roosevelt) and China (Qin Shi Huang, Wu Zetian, or Yongle).

Leader Personas further diversified gameplay and perspectives.

Civilization VII: A Mix-and-Match Approach

Civilization VII represents the culmination of this evolution. Its roster is the most diverse yet, featuring unconventional leaders and a mix-and-match approach to civilizations and leaders. Harriet Tubman, the American abolitionist, is a prime example, filling a unique spymaster role. Niccolò Machiavelli, known for his political writings, also features, embodying diplomatic intrigue. José Rizal of the Philippines represents a significant inclusion, focusing on diplomacy and narrative events.

Civilization's journey demonstrates a shift from focusing on established superpowers to a broader, more inclusive representation of humanity's diverse leaders and their stories.

The series' evolution showcases how the definition of leadership has expanded, reflecting a richer and more nuanced understanding of history and human experience. The future of Civilization's leader selection remains exciting, promising further innovation and inclusivity.

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