Civilization VII Update 1.4.1 Adds Hotseat Multiplayer and New DLC

Firaxis Games has released Civilization VII update 1.4.1, delivering several community-requested features and the first installment of the new Brush and Blade DLC collection. This update follows the recent Test of Time expansion, continuing a busy summer schedule for the strategy title.

New Features and System Reworks

The most significant addition in update 1.4.1 is the local Hotseat multiplayer mode. Players can now share a single device to compete against friends in local matches. Alongside this, the development team has overhauled the Archipelago map type using Voronoi technology, which they state will result in more random and organic map layouts.

Game systems have also seen meaningful adjustments. The developers have reworked Governments, Celebrations, and Happiness. Your choice of Government is now intended to be a central factor across different Ages, while Happiness has been tuned to have a more widespread impact on these core systems. Players looking for the full technical breakdown can view the official Game Update Notes.

Brush and Blade DLC Content

The Brush and Blade collection brings East Asian history to the game in two parts. Part 1, available now, focuses on Japanese history. It introduces:

• Leader: Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a Militaristic and Cultural leader with the 'Great Unifier' ability.
• Civilizations: Heian Japan (Cultural and Diplomatic) and Sengoku Japan (Militaristic and Diplomatic).
• Wonders: Seongsan Ilchulbong, Nachi Falls, Mireuksa, and the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace.

Hideyoshi’s 'Great Unifier' ability increases unit damage during attacks, though it also increases damage taken while defending. Units under his command also heal additional HP when stationed on a Culture Building or Wonder. Part 2 of the collection, which will highlight Korean history with leader Yi Sun-sin and the Goryeo and Joseon civilizations, is scheduled for release later this summer.

Steam Summer Sale

For those who have not yet picked up the game, Civilization VII is currently 50% off as part of the Steam Summer Sale. The discount is active through July 9, 2026. This promotion follows a recent community survey that provided the developers with player feedback regarding future improvements, including a noted interest in better peace deal negotiation mechanics.

The development team also recently concluded an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session featuring their historical research staff, covering topics such as the process for selecting leaders and civilizations for the game. The full Q&A can be found on the game's Steam news hub.