Civilization VII has arrived, and a familiar face is missing: Mahatma Gandhi. A staple of the series since 1991, his absence has sparked considerable discussion among veteran players. This isn't just nostalgia; Gandhi is intrinsically linked to the Civilization legacy, even spawning the infamous (and ultimately mythical) "Nuclear Gandhi" bug.
So, where is he? According to Civilization VII lead designer Ed Beach, Gandhi's absence is temporary. Beach offered a reassuring message to fans, hinting at his eventual return as DLC.
Beach emphasized that Firaxis hasn't forgotten past leaders. He acknowledged the concerns surrounding missing civilizations like Great Britain, noting that a broader roadmap dictates the inclusion of certain leaders and civilizations. The Crossroads of the World Collection DLC, launching in March 2025, will add Carthage and Great Britain, followed by Bulgaria and Nepal.
Beach explained Firaxis' selection process, highlighting that even iconic civilizations like Mongolia and Persia were absent from previous base games. The sheer number of popular choices necessitates leaving some out, while also aiming to introduce fresh and exciting civilizations. While some beloved leaders are omitted initially, Beach confirmed that Gandhi's inclusion is part of Firaxis' long-term plan.
In short: hope remains for Gandhi's return.
Best Civ 7 Leaders
Best Civ 7 Leaders
Meanwhile, Civilization VII is facing a mixed reception on Steam, with criticism focusing on the user interface, limited map variety, and missing features. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick acknowledged the negative reviews in a recent interview with IGN, expressing confidence that the core fanbase will appreciate the game more with continued play and deeming its early performance "very encouraging."
Need help conquering the world? Consult our guides covering every Civ 7 victory condition, key changes for Civ 6 players, crucial mistakes to avoid, map types, and difficulty settings.
