Civilization 7: Here Are The Commander Promotion Points You Should Unlock First

Commanders play a crucial role in Civilization 7, allowing you to lead your military forces efficiently and strategically. Without them, managing dozens of units individually can quickly become overwhelming, especially in large-scale wars. Each Commander comes with unique abilities and skill trees, making it essential to choose the right Promotions early on. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which skills to prioritize. This guide will help you navigate the best early-game Promotions to ensure your Commanders—and your empire—stay ahead of the competition.

Fleet Commander - Weather Gage

Weather Gage, located in the green "Engagement" category, provides the same advantage for naval units as Initiative does for land forces. Once a Fleet Commander deploys their ships, they can move and attack within the same turn. This is particularly useful for positioning fleets effectively, whether attacking enemy ships or fortified coastal districts. Without this skill, naval units might be exposed before they can strike. Unlocking Weather Gage ensures your navy remains mobile and ready to engage at all times.

Fleet Commander - Naval Artillery

Naval Artillery, found in the red "Assault" category, enhances the combat strength of naval units within the Fleet Commander’s radius. Specifically, ships attacking fortified districts receive a +5 bonus to Combat Strength. Since most enemy capitals are fortified, this skill significantly increases the effectiveness of naval assaults. Stronger naval attacks also support land forces in capturing key cities. This Promotion is crucial for any Fleet Commander leading offensive operations.

Army Commander - Rout

Rout, another skill in the red "Assault" category, strengthens infantry units when attacking near the Commander. Infantry—units that engage in melee combat—gain a +2 Combat Strength bonus when within the Commander’s influence. This boost can turn close battles in your favor, making it an essential early-game Promotion. Checking unit descriptions ensures you're using this skill effectively, as it only applies to melee-based forces. In prolonged battles, Rout provides a consistent advantage on the front lines.

Army Commander - Initiative

The Initiative Promotion, found in the red "Assault" category, allows units to move immediately after deployment from the Commander. This eliminates the usual delay that can leave units vulnerable when entering a battle. With Initiative, a Commander can arrive at a location, unpack units, and have them attack on the same turn. This ensures your forces strike first and avoid unnecessary damage. It's a key skill for maintaining an aggressive and flexible combat strategy.

Fleet Commander - Warships

Warships, part of the yellow "Logistics" category, increases naval unit production by 15% when the Fleet Commander is stationed in a coastal city. This significantly reduces the time needed to build new ships, which can otherwise take over ten turns in the Modern Age. However, the skill only applies to production, not purchase costs, meaning it has no effect in towns where ships can only be bought. To maximize its benefits, always station a Fleet Commander with Warships in a city that can produce naval units.

Army Commander - Mobility

Mobility, the first skill in the orange "Maneuver" category, increases a Commander’s movement range by one tile per turn when traveling on land. Additionally, it allows movement across difficult terrain, such as rivers or mountains, without penalties while units are packed. This makes it ideal for Commanders who need to move quickly across the map for various engagements. However, it is not recommended for those stationed at settlements. Instead, a stationary Commander should focus on skills that boost city production.

Obviously, the game tries to balance the commanders, so which one suits you best is entirely up to you and your playstyle.

Are you playing Civilization 7? Which commander are you picking? Tell us in the comments!