Civilization 7 replaces the traditional Barbarian hordes with Independent Powers, offering dynamic new interactions. While conquest is an option, leveraging Influence to become their suzerain provides a more efficient path to expansion. This guide outlines how to diplomatically integrate these NPC settlements into your civilization.
Independent Powers initially appear friendly, possessing armies that patrol the map. Directly taking control of their cities isn’t feasible through military force. Instead, a more nuanced approach is required. Here’s how to navigate these diplomatic relationships and expand your empire through suzerainty.
Establishing Contact with Independent Powers
Initially, interaction options with Independent Powers might seem limited, even with sufficient Influence. This is because direct interaction requires proximity. Follow these steps to initiate contact and begin building a relationship:
1. Locate an Independent Power: Use your scouts and other units to explore the map and identify nearby Independent Power settlements.
2. Dispatch a Unit: Send a unit capable of reaching the Independent Power’s city. Scouts are ideal due to their mobility.
3. Approach the City: Position your unit on a tile adjacent to the Independent Power’s city. Avoid entering their territory to prevent hostile actions.
4. Initiate Interaction: With your unit in position, click on the Independent Power’s city. Influence options should now be available.
Building Influence and Achieving Suzerainty
Once contact is established, you can begin using Influence to cultivate your relationship with the Independent Power.
5. Invest Influence: Consistently invest Influence to improve the Independent Power’s city. This strengthens your relationship and progresses you towards suzerainty.
After the initial interaction, maintaining a unit adjacent to the city is no longer necessary to exert Influence.
6. Achieve Suzerainty: Continued investment in Influence will eventually culminate in full control of the Independent Power’s city, including its army and resources. This effectively adds a new city to your civilization without the need for military conquest.
Conclusion
Integrating Independent Powers through suzerainty provides a valuable avenue for expansion in Civilization 7. By strategically leveraging Influence, players can acquire new cities, bolster their armies, and secure vital resources, all without resorting to warfare. This diplomatic approach offers a more efficient and less resource-intensive method of expanding your empire. Mastering this system will undoubtedly contribute to a successful Civilization 7 campaign.
