Sid Meier's Civilization 7 will be using Denuvo DRM on the PC version of the game. As players wait to learn more about the long-awaited release, the basic detail has emerged on a store listing for Civilization 7.

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However, players on PC may be upset to know that Civilization 7 is going to use the controversial Denuvo DRM anti-tampering software. The software is intended to keep illicit copies of the game from being played and the software from being altered. When running the game, Denuvo acts in the background, making sure that the copy of the game is legitimate. The Steam store listing for the game confirms its use of Denuvo, even though the system requirements for the game have yet to be confirmed.

The History of Gamers and Denuvo

Denuvo DRM has been around for a long time, and it's been controversial among gamers for almost as long. In theory, and according to Denuvo Software Solutions itself, the software should have little to no impact on a player's gaming experience. It's simply there to help prevent copies of games from being redistributed illicitly or otherwise tampered with. However, that hasn't stopped players from being upset about it and claiming that it does indeed have an impact on their PC gaming rigs.

Outside of that possibility, players also object to Denuvo DRM sometimes needing an internet connection. Generally, a game using Denuvo needs the internet to check if the copy is legitimate when first starting up the title, and after some types of significant changes to one's PC or the game, like major hardware installations or a game update. While rare, lacking an internet connection during these times could theoretically make the game unplayable until the system got back online.

Unfortunately, the frustration felt by gamers has been made worse in the past with the knowledge that Denuvo has been quickly cracked with major releases like Resident Evil 7 and Watch Dogs Legion. Of course, the company has undoubtedly retooled its software extensively since then, so it may be tougher to do so. Time will tell if players experience any frustrations with performance in Civilization 7, whether it's due to Denuvo or not.

Sid Meier's Civilization VII Tag Page Cover Art
9 /10

Sid Meier's Civilization VII
Grand Strategy
Turn-Based Strategy
4X
Systems
PlayStation-1 Xbox-1 super greyscale 8-bit logo PC-1
Top Critic Avg: 79 /100 Critics Rec: 77%
Released
February 11, 2025
ESRB
Everyone 10+ // Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Mild Language, Mild Violence, Suggestive Themes
Developer(s)
Firaxis Games
Publisher(s)
2K
Sid Meier's Civilization VII Press Image 1
6 Images
Sid Meier's Civilization VII Press Image 1
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL

The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter. Sid Meier's Civilization® VII empowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!

In Civilization VII, your strategic decisions shape the unique cultural lineage of your evolving empire. Rule as one of many legendary leaders from throughout history and steer the course of your story by choosing a new civilization to represent your empire in each Age of human advancement.

Construct cities and architectural wonders to expand your territory, improve your civilization with technological breakthroughs, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations as you explore the far reaches of the unknown world. Pursue prosperity in an immersive solo experience or play with others in online multiplayer.

Whether you choose to follow a path rooted in history or reimagine possibilities to chart your own way forward, build something you believe in and create a legacy that echoes through the Ages in Civilization VII.

Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer
Franchise
Sid Meier's Civilization
Genre(s)
Grand Strategy, Turn-Based Strategy, 4X