Civilization 7: Release Dates, Early Access, and Editions Explained

Firaxis Games is finally bringing a new entry to the beloved strategy series Civilization. The seventh edition of the franchise will bring lots of new features and exciting content. Reviews have been largely positive, praising the developers for their efforts in making Civilization 7 even better. It's always great when the fandom's needs are heard. 

For those eagerly awaiting the game, there are two key release dates to keep in mind—one for early-access players and another for the official global launch of Civilization VII. 

When Does Civilization 7 Early Access Begin?

In recent years, early access releases have become standard for major game launches, allowing players who purchase specific editions to start playing ahead of time. This is great news. Civilization VII follows this trend, giving early access to those fans who get the premium editions.

Depending on your location, the early access period of Civilization 7 kicks off on February 5 or 6. Here’s when players worldwide can start their campaigns:

• Sydney, Australia – 6:00 PM AEDT (Feb. 6)
• Berlin, Germany – 6:00 AM CEST (Feb. 6)
• New York, USA – 12:00 AM EST (Feb. 6)
• Austin, USA – 11:00 PM CT (Feb. 5)
• Los Angeles, USA – 9:00 PM PST (Feb. 5)

With these times set, the countdown to early access has officially begun!

When Is the Official Civilization 7 Release Date?

If you’d rather buy the standard launch of Civilization 7 instead of paying extra for early access, you won’t have to wait long. Civilization 7 officially releases on February 11—just five days after the early access period begins.

Similar to the early access rollout, the exact release time will depend on your time zone:

• Sydney, Australia – 6:00 PM AEDT (Feb. 11)
• Berlin, Germany – 6:00 AM CEST (Feb. 11)
• New York, USA – 12:00 AM EST (Feb. 11)
• Austin, USA – 11:00 PM CT (Feb. 10)
• Los Angeles, USA – 9:00 PM PST (Feb. 10)

How to Get Early Access to Civilization 7

For those who don’t want to wait until February 11, early access is available and it also comes with some extra goodies. Firaxis is offering early access as part of Civilization 7's premium editions, which cost more than the standard version.

Here’s a breakdown of the different editions:

• Standard Edition ($69.99) – Base game only.
• Deluxe Edition ($99.99) – Includes early access, the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack, the Crossroads of the World Collection (post-launch content), and the Deluxe Content Pack (additional leader personas, profile customizations, and an alternate Scout skin).
• Founder’s Edition ($129.99) – Includes everything in the Deluxe Edition plus the Right to Rule Collection, another content pack, additional leader personas, a Fog of War tile set, and a Founders Palace skin.

Additionally, a Collector’s Edition with physical items was available, but it has already sold out.

Will you pay for the premium versions of the game? They sound like a great choice for the dedicated fans of the strategic game. We'll be here to update you once Civilization 7 is out!