Faith and Religion in Civilization 7: A Crucial Gear in Your Victory Strategy

In Civilization 7, one of the key aspects that shapes your civilization is Religion and Faith. Unlike previous games, Religion on its own won't grant you a victory. Instead, it becomes a powerful boost for other paths like Culture, Economy, Military, or Science. Let’s dive into how it all works, starting with the Antiquity Age. This is where you lay the foundation by choosing a unique Pantheon. But don’t worry, it doesn’t determine your empire's fate. The real action kicks in during the Exploration Age. Here, Religion evolves into something more potent—Religious Beliefs. These beliefs shape how you get bonuses and benefits from religious structures. During this time, you’ll encounter other players and empires as you trade and explore. What you choose for your Religious Beliefs can sway how these interactions go. One big change is how you spread your religion. Converting just the population isn’t enough anymore. Now, you have to focus on converting both urban and rural areas of an opposing empire. This means getting up close and spending time in enemy territory, but it's worth it. You'll gain relics that enhance your Great Work slots, giving a long-term boost. Some players might miss Religious victories from past games. But don’t fret. This new system makes Religion a vital part of any victory path. Even if you're aiming for an Economic or Military victory, paying attention to Religion is a smart move.