Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI System Requirements
Expand your empire, advance your culture and go head-to-head against history’s greatest leaders. Will your civilization stand the test of time?
Minimum Requirements
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
- OS *: Windows 7x64 / Windows 8.1x64 / Windows 10x64
- Processor: Intel Core i3 2.5 Ghz or AMD Phenom II 2.6 Ghz or greater
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Graphics: 1 GB & AMD 5570 or nVidia 450 or Intel Integrated Graphics 530
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 17 GB available space
- Sound Card: DirectX Compatible Sound Device
- Additional Notes: Initial installation requires one-time Internet connection for Steam authentication; software installations required (included with the game) include Steam Client, Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 and 2015 Runtime Libraries, and Microsoft DirectX. Internet connection and acceptance of Steam™ Subscriber Agreement required for activation. See for details.
Recommended Requirements
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
- OS *: Windows 7x64 / Windows 8.1x64 / Windows 10x64
- Processor: Fourth Generation Intel Core i5 2.5 Ghz or AMD FX8350 4.0 Ghz or greater
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: 2GB & AMD 7970 or nVidia 770 or greater
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 23 GB available space
- Sound Card: DirectX Compatible Sound Device
Detailed Hardware Performance Analysis
Running Difficulty
Very Low. Almost any modern integrated GPU or basic laptop will run this game smoothly.
Target Hardware Tier
Budget / Entry-level PC
System RAM Recommendations
We recommend at least 16 GB of system RAM to prevent stutters and ensure smooth multitasking while playing.
Optimal Graphics Settings
For 1080p High settings at 60 FPS, a mid-range GPU like the RTX 3060 or RX 6600 is optimal. If you are on entry-level specs, we recommend setting shadows, volumetric lighting, and reflection quality to Medium or Low to save up to 25% of GPU cycles. Enable DLSS or FSR if available.
Performance Optimization Tips & Troubleshooting
How to boost FPS:
Install the game on an SSD to completely prevent micro-stutters during asset loading. Turn off VSync in-game if you experience input latency, and use hardware scaling (DLSS/FSR) in Quality mode for the best FPS-to-visuals ratio.
Common Issues & Workarounds:
Many players report shader-compilation stutters during the first 10 minutes of gameplay. Simply wait in the main menu for shader compilation to finish. If experiencing crashes, update graphics card drivers and verify game file integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I run Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI on a laptop?
Yes, as long as your laptop possesses a dedicated GPU like the GTX 1650 or RTX 3050, it will run smoothly at 1080p. Integrated graphics laptops may require low resolution settings.
Do I need an SSD for Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI?
While it will load on an HDD, installing it on a solid-state drive (SSD) is highly recommended for faster load times and to avoid stuttering in open-world segments.