All Civilization VII Map Types Explained

When starting a game of Civilization VII, you’ll need to select what kind of map you want the game to generate for you. However, currently the game doesn’t tell you much about each option, so to give you an idea of what you’re getting here’s a look at all the Map Types in Civilization VII.

What does each Map Type option do in Civilization VII?

Civilization VII currently offers 6 map types in small, tiny, and standard sizes. Generally, the generator seems to consistently produce 2 larger continents regardless of the type, with a greater or lesser amount of smaller islands in thin strips between them. Otherwise, each of the options will generate:

• Continents – A map with two large continents separated by ocean, with few to no small islands.
• Continents Plus – A map with two large continents separated by ocean, with several small-to-medium sized islands between them.
• Archipelago – A more erratic map with thinner landmasses and lots of smaller island.
• Fractal – The two continents will have more unconventional shapes.
• Shuffle – Similar to Continents Plus, but with more water water and uneven continent edges.
• Terra Incognita – Essentially the same as Continents Plus, but one continent will begin completely unpopulated by major powers.

You can get a look at some sample generated maps via the gallery below:

If you enjoyed this guide or found it useful, be sure to check out some of Siliconera’s other Civilization VII guides such as How to Set up a Trade Route or How to Start Crossplay.

Civilization VII is immediately available for PS4, PS5 Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch and PC.