The Atomic Age is finally coming to Civilization VII, which previously only covered up through the Modern Age. Along with the addition of a new era via the free update 'Arc of Tomorrow' in 2027, a new expansion titled 'Earthrise' was also teased.
Firaxis Games unveiled the roadmap for Civilization VII on September 6. Both the free update covering the Atomic Age and the first paid expansion set in space target a 2027 release. Ahead of these, Patch 1.5.0, containing long-requested quality-of-life features, will arrive later this month.
The Atomic Age will be introduced through a major update titled 'Arc of Tomorrow.' Similar to the previous 'Test of Time' update, this was planned as a large-scale update offered free of charge. Firaxis described the Atomic Age as "a unique and interesting subject of exploration in that it touches upon our most recent past," confirming its addition as the fourth era.
The game's timeline will expand by 100 years, extending from around the 1950s—where previous games ended—to the 2050s. A wealth of new civilizations, leaders, buildings, units, and gameplay systems will be added. This era captures both the shadow of nuclear warfare and the darkness of the Cold War, alongside the wondrous moment of space exploration. Furthermore, with nuclear capabilities added, the return of Mahatma Gandhi—a symbol of peace who is inseparable from nuclear weapons in the Civilization series—has been confirmed.
Additionally, the new expansion 'Earthrise' will also arrive in 2027. As Civilization VII's first paid expansion, Earthrise centers on the Cold War space race and missions venturing across the solar system. While it does not depict full-scale space colonization like the previously released 'Civilization: Beyond Earth,' it is expected to feature expanded space content compared to past main-line Civilization games. In addition to venturing into space, the expansion will also address protecting Earth's environment.
Content additions are also planned for this year. In Patch 1.5.0, scheduled for release later this month, the long-awaited 'True Start Location: Earth' map will be officially introduced. This will allow each civilization to start as close to its real-world geographical location on Earth as possible, enabling more realistic gameplay.
Firaxis noted that the details revealed in this announcement are only part of its future roadmap, promising to continue sharing further information. Furthermore, regarding Arc of Tomorrow, the studio plans to recruit playtest participants before the end of this year.
Ed Beach, Creative Director at Firaxis Games, said, "This announcement is just a tiny fraction of the plans we have prepared," adding, "Thirty-five years of 'just one more turn' memories is a truly remarkable milestone." He also expressed his gratitude to the fans.
