Apple Arcade adds Civilization VII on February 5, marking the strategy franchise's debut on the subscription service. The mobile port arrives nearly a year after the PC version launched in February 2025.
The Civilization VII Arcade Edition will be playable on Mac, iPhone, and iPad devices. Apple announced the addition alongside three other titles: Felicity's Door, Retrocade, and I Love Hue Too+.
Behaviour Interactive, the studio behind Fallout Shelter, leads development of the Apple Arcade version in collaboration with Firaxis Games. The Apple Arcade version features touch-specific controls optimized for on-the-go play.
GameSpot reports no Android version is currently planned. This makes Civilization VII an Apple Arcade exclusive for mobile platforms.
The port maintains the core civilization management simulation from the PC and console versions. It includes the controversial "ages" system that forces players to start fresh with each new era.
However, the Apple Arcade edition launches without downloadable content or multiplayer support. Siliconera notes it's unclear how long the game will remain single-player only.
Apple's product page for Civilization VII Arcade Edition is already live. The listing shows how the strategy game will function on iOS devices.
The February 5 update represents Apple's continued push for premium gaming content on its subscription service. With hardware sales declining, subscription revenue becomes increasingly important for the company.
Civilization VII received mixed reviews upon its original PC release. Critics praised its visuals but criticized the era transition system that disrupts gameplay continuity.
Apple Arcade subscribers gain access to the full game without additional purchase. Apple Arcade costs $6.99 monthly or $69.99 annually in the United States.
The mobile port follows Civilization VI's successful transition to Apple devices. That earlier version demonstrated how complex strategy games can work on touchscreens.
Apple's unified chip architecture across Mac and iOS devices makes such ports increasingly feasible. The company continues to position its hardware as viable gaming platforms.
The February update arrives as Apple expands its subscription offerings. Apple recently launched a subscription service to counter Adobe's creative suite, according to a Boing Boing report.
Civilization VII's Apple Arcade debut tests whether premium PC franchises can thrive on mobile subscription services. Its performance could influence future port decisions by other major studios.
