Summary
With theCivilizationseries being more of an iterative one, with each new entry primarily focused on adding more to the same usual formula, it’s easy for someCivilizationgames to blur into one when fans think about them. This is especially true for the middle set ofCivilizationgames, withCivilization 3,4, and5all looking very similar in terms of art style, graphics, and gameplay. But the biggest thing setting these entries apart is their roster of world leaders, andCivilization 4still has one of the best in franchise history, with more than a handful of leaders that deserve to come toCivilization 7.
From the very beginning, theCivilizationseries' main MO has been to put players in the boots of some of the most powerful, larger-than-life figures in history. Naturally, this led to some familiar faces appearing across almost every entry of the franchise, with icons likeQueen Elizabeth I, Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi, Cleopatra, Alexander the Great, and Genghis Khanappearing in the vast majority ofCivilizationgames.Civilization 4went above and beyond with its own set of leaders, though, and there are a good few that haven’t made the cut since but definitely deserve to make a triumphant return inCivilization 7.
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Boudica - Celtic
A leader introduced in the Beyond the Sword DLC expansion, Boudica is one of two Celtic leaders inCivilization 4, but she’s the one most deserving of a comeback inCivilization 7. Known best for her attempted uprising againstthe Roman Empirein the 1st Century, Boudica is an iconic yet underrated Scottish leader. She deserves another chance in the spotlight, especially considering her unique blend of Aggressive and Charismatic Traits, decreasing the time it takes for army units to be promoted and increasing the general happiness in cities.
Catherine - Russian
The Empress of Russia between the years 1762 and 1796, Catherine is the Russian leader inCivilization 4’s base game. Cropping up in a few differentCivilizationentries over the years, including thefan-favorite console spin-offCivilization Revolution, Catherine is all about nation expansion and increasing culture.Civ 4’s version of Catherine saw her adopt the Creative and Imperialistic Traits, with the former doubling the production speed of theatres and coliseums and the latter doubling the production speed of settlers.
Charlemagne - Holy Roman
A true powerhouse inCivilization 4, the Holy Roman Empire leader Charlemagne can be one of the toughest foes to fight against, but one of the most satisfying leaders to play as. With his unique unit the Landsknecht, a pikeman that can deal double damage to both mounted and melee foes, Charlemagne becomes an almost unstoppable military force inthe Medieval era, and with the Protective Trait that doubles production for walls and immediately upgrades defensive units, he can’t be easily taken over himself. Due to his time-sensitive Traits and units, Charlemagne can be a bit of a tough leader to play as, but that learning curve makes him a great choice forCivilization 7’s more experienced players.
Napoleon - French
One of the most iconic leaders of all time, despite only being the French Emperor for 11 years, Napoleon is another fan-favoriteCivilizationleader, though one that didn’t make the cut inCivilization 6. A leader that specializes in building the most effective cities, Napoleon’s Organized Trait sees civic upkeep reduced by 50% and sees production doubled for lighthouses, courthouses, and factories. With his unique Musketeer unit, Napoleon can defend his land fairly easily, making him a great choice forCivilization 7players that prefer to stick to their own turf.
