Firaxis has announced a major free update and the first paid expansion for Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, and both are pushing the strategy classic into outer space.
The free update, called 'Arc of Tomorrow,' will roll out alongside a new expansion titled 'Earthrise.' The announcement came during a developer panel at PAX West 2026, where the team detailed how the game’s endgame is about to change dramatically.
While specific release dates and pricing for the expansion haven’t been fully detailed, Firaxis confirmed that 'Earthrise' introduces a new era focused on space colonization. Players will move beyond Earth’s borders, establishing settlements on planets and managing resources across the solar system.
One quirky detail: the developers hired historians to help name planets in the game. But players will also have the freedom to name celestial bodies themselves, meaning your dog or cat’s name could end up in your game’s universe.
The update also includes new systems and features designed to address long-standing complaints about the late-game grind, which some fans have said loses momentum after the modern era. Firaxis is also bringing back its Feature Workshop, allowing players to sign up to test and give feedback on 'Arc of Tomorrow' before it goes live.
The panel at PAX West offered the first deep look at how the team is approaching this next phase. More details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks as Firaxis rolls out previews and the workshop sessions begin.
