Can Civ VII Operate on Steam Deck and Linux?

Sid Meier's Civilization VII is almost here, and it's gearing up to be a significantly more console-friendly experience than its previous version upon release. With Firaxis and 2K Games emphasizing smooth gamepad control, the future of Civ 7 on platforms like Steam Deck (alongside handhelds like the ROG Ally and Legion GO) seems promising. And today, that promise is even stronger with the game's updated PC requirements for its native Linux version.

Civ 7 on Linux: Minimum System Requirements

Here's the fundamental hardware you'll need to run Civ 7's official Linux version. This setup should deliver 1080p/30FPS at low graphics quality settings:

OS: Ubuntu 22.04
Processor: Intel i5-4690 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200
RAM: 8 GB
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 580
Storage Space: 25 GB

Interestingly, the minimum requirements for the Windows version display an Nvidia GTX 1050, while the developer specifies a GTX 1060 for the Linux version. Regardless, it's refreshing to see a game in 2025 that is not leaving behind million of gamers with high minimum system requirements, such as hardware-level ray tracing.

How does this line up for Steam Deck users? Initially, it seems like they may miss out. Considering that Steam Deck's corresponding graphic cards to the desktop are typically weaker than what's listed for Civ 7's Linux minimum requirements (ex. Nvidia GTX 1050Ti or AMD Radeon RX 570), it might appear challenging. However, the fact that Steam Deck runs at a lower resolution -- 1280x800, in contrast to the desktop standard 1920x1080 -- justifies confidence in believing that Civ 7 will run smoothly on Deck. It may even become Steam Deck certified.

It's worth noting that Ubuntu is not an absolute requirement. Instead, Ubuntu users should ensure they're utilizing 22.04 or a later version to ensure updated software libraries. Numerous Linux distributions like Fedora, Zorin OS, Bazzite, or Mint can meet the requirements as long as they have a modern kernel.

Is a Linux Version Essential for Civ 7?

As with Civilization VI, Firaxis is once again providing a dedicated Linux version of Civilization VII. MacOS users will also have a dedicated port, contingent upon their Mac being powered by Apple Silicon. Considering the capabilities of Valve's Proton, the compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run (and excel) on Linux, it's intriguing to see a dedicated Linux version in 2025.

When Civ 6 released in 2018, Proton was still in its early stages, plus the Steam Deck and the positive trajectory of Linux gaming had barely begun. A native Linux version was necessary then, especially for a game that was primarily designed for PCs.

Firaxis does not necessitate a dedicated Linux version in 2025, just as Hello Games didn't need to deliver a constant stream of large content updates for No Man's Sky after it earned its second chance. Goodwill counts for a lot.

However, there's another reason. Proton isn't perfect and is susceptible to issues where game updates may result in reduced performance or even the game not functioning altogether. A dedicated Linux version eliminates uncertainty over which version of Proton to use and fosters consistency in providing the best gaming experience possible. As Linux gaming gains traction, a dedicated Linux version is a good move for developers.

Civilization VII will be released on February 11, 2025, and I'm eager to evaluate both the Linux native version and the Steam Proton version's performance. Stay tuned for that!

The Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device, seems promising for playing Civilization VII, given the game's emphasis on smooth gamepad control and the lower resolution it runs at compared to desktops. Indeed, with the updated PC requirements for its native Linux version, Civ 7 could potentially become Steam Deck certified.

As mentioned earlier, Firaxis, the developer of Civilization VII, is providing a dedicated Linux version of the game, just like they did with Civilization VI, showcasing their commitment to Linux gaming and ensuring a consistent gaming experience.