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Civilization 7 Update Introduces Pirates and Ocean Tiles

Civilization 7 Update Introduces Pirates and Ocean Tiles
Editorial
  • PublishedOctober 27, 2025

The upcoming update for Civilization 7, scheduled for release during the week of November 3, is set to introduce exciting new features including pirates and enhanced ocean gameplay. Developer Firaxis has confirmed this in a recent developer update, although details remain somewhat limited. Creative director Ed Beach noted that the team aimed to provide clarity on significant updates before sharing more information with the community.

In this next version, known as update 1.3.0, players can look forward to a variety of maritime enhancements. A new water-based Warehouse Building called the Harbor will be available, alongside the Privateer Light Naval Unit, designed for engaging in “general maritime mischief.” Additionally, the update will allow players to utilize workable Ocean Tiles during the Modern Age.

New Features and Civilizations

Firaxis has highlighted a notable change for the Hawaiian civilization, stating that it will now be able to work Ocean Tiles as early as the Exploration Age. This adjustment aims to enhance the power of coastal starts in the game. Furthermore, the update will introduce improvements to naval combat, expanding options with new Ranged Units and two types of Naval Units, namely Light and Heavy.

The Tides of Power Content Collection will accompany update 1.3.0, introducing the Tonga civilization and the Republic of Pirates. Players can expect the formidable leader Sayyida al Hurra to be part of the new content, alongside the Ottomans and Iceland.

In light of these changes, Beach has indicated that players should anticipate smaller and less frequent updates as the team transitions into a testing phase. This period will focus on refining larger changes and preparing for a new playtesting initiative called the Workshop.

Future Directions for Civilization 7

Firaxis has also hinted at “dramatic changes” to the game as it explores a method to potentially bypass its divisive Ages system. This could allow players to focus on a single faction throughout their gameplay experience.

As fans eagerly await the launch of update 1.3.0, Firaxis encourages players to embrace the new oceanic themes. With these updates, Civilization 7 aims to deepen the strategic gameplay experience and provide players with exciting new ways to engage with the game world.

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