Civilization 7's release has left many veteran players wondering about the absence of a familiar face: Mahatma Gandhi. A staple of the series since its inception in 1991, Gandhi's absence is notable. This isn't an oversight, however.

According to Civilization 7 lead designer Ed Beach, Gandhi's omission is part of a larger strategy. While acknowledging player concerns about missing civilizations like Great Britain, Beach assures fans that a longer-term roadmap includes the return of beloved leaders. He cites previous instances where iconic civilizations (Mongolia and Persia) were initially absent from base games, emphasizing the need for a balance between established favorites and fresh additions.

Beach explicitly stated that there's hope for Gandhi's eventual inclusion as DLC. This confirms that his absence is a deliberate decision, not a forgotten detail. The decision reflects Firaxis' desire to introduce new civilizations while acknowledging the legacy of established favorites.

Top Civ 7 Leaders

Meanwhile, Firaxis is addressing concerns surrounding Civilization 7's mixed reception on Steam. Criticisms include the user interface, limited map variety, and the perceived lack of key features. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick, while acknowledging negative reviews, expressed confidence in the game's long-term success, believing the core fanbase will embrace the game with continued play.

Need assistance conquering the world? Consult our guides covering all victory conditions in Civ 7, significant changes for Civ 6 players, crucial mistakes to avoid, map types, and difficulty settings.