All the Map Types Available in Civilization 6

For long-time series fans, there are some changes in the map setups to be aware of from previous Civilization titles. There are five main map types available in Civilization VI, plus a Shuffle option for more random generation that includes features from all map types.

Each of the six main map setups also feature a horde of different options — from size (2 player Duel to 12 player Huge) to specifying what types of terrain are found across the map. Other than choosing the type, you can also specify World Age (amount of hill and mountain tiles), Rainfall (amount of forest tiles), Temperature (amount of desert and tundra riles), Sea Level (water tiles), and the amount of resources present, from sparse to abundant.

Aside from changes in map setup, the new Districts system also significantly modifies how you build cities while expanding and conquering. Check out our guide to the Districts right here. 

Looking for other Civilization VI guides? Check out:

• America
• England
• India
• Rome
• Maps Overview
• Best Governments
• Fixing Loading Screen Freeze

Continents

Missing the “Earth” maps from previous Civilization titles? This is the closest thing currently available (until some modders get us a real one or more map types arrive in DLC anyway). You get a smattering of larger continents along with some smaller land masses to expand into with your naval forces.

 Continents map 

Inland Sea

A central water area dominates the map, with land masses surrounding on the top, bottom, and sides. Keep in mind when choosing this map that it doesn’t actually wrap around like a globe would, as the top and bottom are impassible borders.

Inland Sea map

Fractal

Similar to Shuffle, this map setting creates patterns across the world but can give you either a single landmass or several large ones spread across a sea.

Pangaea

As the name implies, this map setting creates a super land mass with all the continents connected. Although there’s one primary landmass, you can still get small island chains on the edges.

 Pangaea map

Island Plates

The opposite of Pangaea, this map spreads all the landmasses out across a large ocean and doesn’t give you a huge central area.

 Island Plates map

Shuffle

Don’t give a flip which map type you get or want something really randomized to keep games exciting? This is on the you want, as you’re going to be surprised every time. The image below is obviously just one option – you could get anything.

 Shuffle map

What do you think of the base Civilization VI map selections, and what kinds from previous games are you hoping will eventually make their return?