Civilization VII, major free update: Test of Time will allow the use of a single civilization throughout the campaign

Sid Meier's Civilization VII is set to receive what Firaxis Games describes as the most important and transformative update since the game's release. The new free update, called Test of Time, will arrive on May 19 and introduce numerous changes requested by the community, including one of the most desired features by fans of the series.

The main novelty concerns the ability to use the same civilization for the entire campaign. One of the most discussed aspects of Civilization VII had been the system that forced players to change civilizations when transitioning between different historical eras. Many enthusiasts had criticized this choice, considering it too far removed from the classic formula of the series. With the Test of Time update, it will finally be possible to maintain one's civilization from the beginning to the end of the game.

Firaxis has clarified that the civilization change system will still be available as an option. Those who decide to continue with the same faction will be able to take advantage of a new mechanic called Syncretism, which will allow them to adopt infrastructures and units typical of later eras without having to change their cultural identity.

Additional details on the Civilization 7 update

The update will also introduce a complete overhaul of the victory system. The old Legacy Paths will be eliminated and replaced with an approach designed to offer more strategic freedom and more ways to achieve success. The developers' stated goal is to make each game more varied and based on the decisions made by the player.

Supporting this system will be the Triumphs, optional objectives tied to different play styles that will grant special bonuses once completed. According to Firaxis, this addition should make each campaign more unique and different from previous ones.

Among the other expected novelties are interface improvements, balance changes, updated map generation, a new map, and even a free leader available to all players. Despite the enthusiasm for the return of the traditional formula, some criticisms remain regarding the state of the game at launch.