Civilization VI: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide

Civilization VI
Civilization VI (Image credit: 2K Games)

Civilization VI is just around the corner for strategy game fans, but there are a few different versions of the game available for purchase — and the question of if your current rig will be able to handle the new game.

2K is set to release Civilization VI on October 21, it will be available through a number of partnered retailers and platforms. Interestingly, the only content bonus you get by pre-ordering is early access to one of the playable civilizations.

Release date

Civilization VI is going to be available for purchase on Friday, October 21. This is slated to be a worldwide release and thus you shouldn't see a delayed launch in regions like Europe. Pre-orders are already available, and you can provide 2K with your hard-earned cash for all upcoming editions, depending on which you prefer the look of.

Pre-order bonuses

Thankfully, Firaxis Games and 2K Games have refrained from locking content to pre-orders. So why pre-order? Aside from reserving your copy for launch day, pre-ordering Civilization VI will unlock access to the Aztec civilization, which will be disabled for everyone else for a total of 90 days. After this exclusive pre-order period is up all who purchased the game will gain access to the Aztecs.

Can you run it?

Interested to learn whether or not you'll be able to run Civilization VI? 2K Games and Firaxis Games have confirmed the specifications you'll need to boot up the game and enjoy a stable experience.

Minimum

  • Intel Core i3 2.5GHz / AMD Phenom II 2.6GHz
  • 4GB RAM
  • 1GB DirectX 11 GPU
  • NVIDIA 450 / AMD Radeon 5570
  • 4th-gen Intel i5 2.5GHz / AMD FX 8350 4.0GHz
  • 8GB RAM
  • 2GB DirectX 11 GPU
  • NVIDIA 770 / AMD Radeon 7970

Game versions

Civilization VI

Standard Edition (Physical)

The standard edition is the base copy of Civilization VI and will bag you access to all content in the game. This physical copy sees the game available on disc and can be loaded onto your PC after inserting the medium into a supported drive. It'll be stocked by a majority of participating retailers.

Pre-order the standard edition of Civilization from the retailers below:

Civilization VI

Standard Edition (Digital)

Discs are so yesterday, and if you'd rather go for a digital copy of Civilization VI, You can get codes from a number of retailers, both online and in brick and mortar stores.

Utilize the power of your connection and download the game from the following stores:

Civilization VI

Digital Deluxe Edition (Digital Only)

The digital deluxe version of Civilization VI contains not only the full base game, but also the 25th Anniversary Digital Soundtrack, as well as access to four post-launch DLC packs that will add new maps, scenarios, civilizations and leaders. If you plan on purchasing the optional content down the road, think of this like an included season pass.

You can pre-order the digital deluxe edition using the links below:

Civilization VI

25th Anniversary Edition (Physical Only)

Should you be a massive fan of the Civilization series of titles, you'll definitely need to consider this special 25th anniversary edition. As well as sporting all the contents of the deluxe edition, this pricey option comes with a Civilization Through the Years 100-Page Hardcover Art Book and exclusive 25th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Set with Display Case.

Hit the store listings below to order the 25th anniversary edition:

Skipping your turn?

We're intrigued to learn which edition you'll be forking out for as a pre-order. Should you not be reserving a copy ahead of the launch date

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.