Civilization's leaders are as iconic as the civilizations themselves. Firaxis' approach to selecting national representatives has evolved significantly over the years. This article explores Civilization VII's leader roster and how it redefines leadership within the series' history.

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Civ VII: A New Era of Leadership

Civilization leaders have been a core element since the first game. Each leader embodies their civilization's identity, impacting gameplay significantly. While their role remains central, their representation has diversified across each installment. This evolution refines the concept of leadership and its influence on gameplay.

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

Early Civilization: A Focus on Global Powerhouses

The original Civilization featured a simpler roster compared to later games. The focus was on major global powers of the early 1990s and historical antiquity. Leader selection was straightforward, prioritizing widely recognized historical heads of state.

With a limited scope, the game included 15 civilizations, featuring leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Mahatma Gandhi, and Julius Caesar. The selection was largely traditional, with Elizabeth I as the sole female leader. While understandable given the era, subsequent iterations broadened the scope.

Civilization II-V: Expanding Diversity and Creative License

Civilization II expanded the roster and included lesser-known powers. A dedicated female leader roster was introduced, offering both male and female options for each civilization. The definition of "leader" broadened, encompassing influential figures beyond heads of state, such as Sacagawea and Amaterasu.

Civilization III integrated female leaders into the main roster, replacing some historically prominent male figures. Civilization IV and V significantly expanded the roster and the definition of leadership, including revolutionaries, generals, and reformers. The focus shifted from solely established figures to a broader representation of humanity's story.

Civilization VI: Characterization and Creative Flourishing

Civilization VI emphasized characterization, diversity, and creativity. Leaders were presented as stylized animated caricatures. Leader Personas were introduced, offering alternative versions of leaders with distinct playstyles. Lesser-known figures from various civilizations were included, such as Lautaro and Bà Triệu.

Multiple leader options for some civilizations were introduced, along with expanded Leader Personas, showcasing different aspects of their lives and offering varied gameplay.

Civilization VII: A Bold Departure and Inclusive Roster

Civilization VII features the most diverse roster yet, employing a mix-and-match approach to civilizations and leaders. Unconventional leaders and multiple personas are prominent. The inclusion of figures like Harriet Tubman and Niccolò Machiavelli showcases a departure from traditional leader selection.

José Rizal's inclusion represents a significant shift, reflecting a broader narrative. Over nearly 30 years, Civilization has evolved from a focus on major powers to a diverse representation of humanity's story, redefining the very concept of leadership within the game.

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