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 the evolution of Civilization VII's leader roster and how it redefines leadership.
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Civ VII: A New Era of Leadership
Civilization leaders have been integral to the series since its inception. Each leader embodies their civilization's identity, impacting gameplay as significantly as the civilization itself. While their role remains constant, the representation of leaders has diversified and evolved with each installment. This article traces that evolution, highlighting the innovations in leader design and their influence on gameplay.
We'll examine how Civilization's leader roster has changed over time and how Civilization VII introduces a unique approach to leadership.
Early Civilizations: A Focus on Global Powerhouses
The original Civilization featured a relatively small roster, predominantly composed of global superpowers from history and the early 1990s. The selection was straightforward, largely featuring well-known historical heads of state. With limited design scope and technology, the game included 15 civilizations, including America, Rome, Greece, Japan, China, France, Egypt, and Russia. Leadership was literal; each leader was a historical head of state.
Leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Tokugawa Ieyasu, Mahatma Gandhi, and Julius Caesar were included, alongside more controversial figures such as Mao Zedong and Joseph Stalin. Elizabeth I was the sole female leader. This approach, while straightforward, reflects the context of the game's release.
Civilization II - V: Expanding the Definition of Leadership
Civilization II expanded the roster and included lesser-known powers like the Sioux. A notable addition was a separate female leader roster, providing both male and female options for each civilization. The definition of "leader" broadened to include influential figures beyond heads of state, such as Sacagawea for the Sioux and Amaterasu for Japan.
Civilization III integrated female leaders into the main roster, with six female leaders. Some replaced historically dominant male counterparts, like Joan of Arc replacing Napoleon.
Civilization IV and V further expanded the roster and the definition of leadership. Revolutionaries, generals, and reformers became common. Traditional figureheads were replaced or doubled, with examples including Wu Zetian for China and both Victoria I and Elizabeth I for England. The focus shifted from solely powerful figures to a broader representation of humanity.
Civilization VI: Enhanced Characterization and Diversity
Civilization VI significantly enhanced characterization and diversity, introducing stylized animated leader portraits. Leader Personas, alternative versions of leaders emphasizing different aspects of their rule, offered diverse playstyles. Lesser-known figures from less prominent civilizations were included, like Lautaro of the Mapuche and Bà Triệu of Vietnam.
Leaders were no longer defined solely by their entire legacies but by specific periods of their lives. This was exemplified by leaders like Eleanor of Aquitaine and Kublai Khan, who could lead multiple civilizations. Multiple leader options for single civilizations were also introduced (e.g., America under Lincoln or Roosevelt). Leader Personas added further diversity to the roster.
Civilization VII: A Bold New Direction
Civilization VII represents the culmination of this evolution. It features the most diverse and creative roster yet, with unconventional leaders, multiple personas, and carefully curated selections for varied playstyles. The mix-and-match approach to civilizations and leaders allows even lesser-known figures to take center stage.
Harriet Tubman's inclusion is a prime example, representing a shift in focus. Other unexpected additions include Niccolò Machiavelli and José Rizal.
Over nearly 30 years, Civilization has evolved from a game about superpowers to a diverse representation of humanity's great minds. The definition of leadership has broadened, but its significance remains unchanged.
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