
When embarking on their journey in Civilization VII, players must carefully consider their initial settlement location and develop a strategic plan that will guide them throughout their campaign. A well-crafted starting strategy not only positions players for future success but also mitigates the risk of encountering early setbacks.
The optimal starting strategy in Civilization VII hinges on individual playstyle and overall objectives. Recognizing these foundational elements is crucial; understanding the desired outcome allows players to make informed decisions that will shape their civilizations’ progress and direction.
Choosing a Civ 7 Victory Type




A critical first step for players is to identify their preferred victory condition. Ideally, this decision should precede the choice of Leader and Civilization, as certain Leaders align better with particular victory types. For instance, players aiming for a Culture Victory might opt for Catherine the Great of Greece, while those pursuing a Science Victory could choose Himiko of the Khmer.
- All Victory Types in Civilization VII
The Best Starting Strategy in Civ 7

While various elements will depend on the chosen victory type, most players will find that their early actions follow a similar trajectory. To begin, constructing a military unit alongside scouts is crucial for exploring the vicinity around the capital. The primary objective during this phase is to identify nearby Independent Powers and cultivate positive relations through Influence, which allows players to conserve resources and avoid early conflict.
Choosing the Best Early Game Civics and Technologies in Civ 7

Following the establishment of their initial unit, players must select appropriate Technologies and Civics for research. Many Civics and Technologies serve general purposes; for example, unlocking Animal Husbandry can beautify armies and assist with enemy naval engagements. However, players should utilize the “View Tree”feature to ensure that they prioritize those Technologies and Civics that align with their selected Legacy path.
- Culture Victory – Focus on the Writing, Irrigation, Masonry, and Navigation Technologies along with Discipline, Tactics, Code of Laws, and Organized Military Civics to secure early-game Wonders efficiently.
- Military Victory – Emphasize the Discipline Civic to enable the Army Commander unit. Prioritize unlocking Siege units through Animal Husbandry, Masonry, and Irrigation to reach The Wheel expediently.
- Science Victory – First, unlock Writing to access Libraries, but be sure to study Sailing and Pottery in advance. Post-Writing research into specific Technologies and Civics will yield Codices, so monitoring the Civic and Tech Trees is beneficial.
- Economic Victory – Unlock the Code of Laws Civic for Merchants and to initiate Trade Routes. Building Markets expands resource allocation in settlements, thus placing emphasis on Sailing and Currency Technologies is advisable.
Choosing the Best Government in Civ 7

After determining their research path, players are tasked with selecting a government. The Classical Republic is ideal for those aspiring to a Culture Victory due to its bonuses enhancing Culture and Wonder output. For players targeting Military or Science Victories, Despotism is more suitable, as it bolsters Science generation and accelerates Infantry training. Lastly, Oligarchy aligns best for players aiming for Economic Victory by streamlining building production—crucial for establishing Markets in their capital.
Every decision, including Social Policies and Celebrations, should reinforce the player’s chosen Legacy Path for a coherent strategy.
The Best Civ 7 Build Order

While scouts are scouting, players must focus on developing their capital. Initially, they may only construct Granaries, but can expand their building options as they progress with further Technologies and Civics. Constructing buildings like Saw Pits and Brick Yards significantly boosts Production, a critical early resource. After establishing these, production should again reflect their chosen victory condition.
- Culture Victory – Prioritize the construction of Wonders.
- Military Victory – Focus on training military units. Alternatively, rapid settlement establishment via Settlers may allow for expansion, though it poses risks if military defenses are inadequate.
- Science Victory – Aim to build Libraries and structures generating Science and Culture to enhance research speed and expedite Codex acquisition.
- Economic Victory – Concentrate on constructing Markets, along with training Scouts and Merchants to broaden trade opportunities.
How to Deal with Other Civilizations and Independent Powers in Civ 7

In the early stages of a campaign, engaging with hostile powers can be a significant burden. Thus, maintaining diplomatic relations with other Civilizations and Independent Powers is generally advisable unless pursuing a military-centric approach. In such cases, offensive strategies can be effective, capturing rival settlements while building rapport with Independent Powers. Surplus Influence can subsequently enhance Science, Culture or expand trade routes.
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