Summary
Civilization 7could be a chance for the series to bring back underrated or forgotten units from games past. With the ever-shifting nature of the series, there could be a second chance for some of these units to make a greater impact than they did the first time around. WithCivilization 7likely to rework some mechanics from the last game anyway, doing the same with old units could be in the cards as well.
TheCivilizationseries has seen some incredible units in the past, with China’s Chu-Ko-Nu Crossbow replacement inCivilization 5being a standout example. However, some of the moreunderrated units inCivilizationcould prove to have surprising potential if given another chance to shine. Sometimes a few attempts are needed to make something that works. While that’s not always an option in video games,Civilization 7is in the position to do so.
India’s Fast Worker Defined Simple Effectiveness
Most unique units inCivilizationare unique or powerful military units, but not all of them. India’s Fast Worker inCivilization 4was simply a worker with an extra movement point, which proved highly useful in starting improvements earlier. While one of the least flashy uniques in the series, it’s undoubtedly one of the most consistently useful. The Fast Worker could be anupgrade toCivilization 7’s early gameif India or another civ brings it back.
Indonesia’s Kris Swordsman is a Cool Idea to Revisit
The Kris Swordsman inCivilization 5had a notable gimmick that gave each one a random, unique promotion after their first battle. Despite some excellent options, two of the possible “upgrades” were absolutely terrible, hurting not only the unit, but Indonesia’s viability as a whole. A rework inCivilization 7could give them a chance to be relevant and use their potential versatility to its fullest.
Sumeria’s Enkidu Warrior Could’ve Been Better
The Enkidu Warrior inCivilization 3was a Sumerian Warrior replacement with slightly higher defense. This feels significantly underwhelming considering that Enkidu was famously a companion of Gilgamesh, arecurring civ leader inCivilization. Enkidu as a unit makes sense, but he should be used properly. He would be better suited to a role as a higher-end Ancient Era unit than a basic warrior replacement.
Maya’s Atlatlist Might Be Able to Find a New Niche
The Atlatlist inCivilization 5was an Archer replacement for the Mayans that could be built without researching Archery. While this niche was taken by the Slinger inCivilization 6, the Atlatlist could still have a signature trick. Since they throw spears, they could be given the Spearman class' usual bonus against mounted units. This would make them a unique early-game tool for the Mayans if they’re one of thereturning civs inCivilization 7.
Slingers were actually an Inca-excluisive Archer replacement inCivilization 5before becoming a universal beginning ranged unit inCivilization 6. Ironically, theirCivilization 5incarnation required Archery to build.
The Iroquois Mohawk Warrior Was Unfairly Overshadowed
The Mohawk Warrior fromCivilization 5is probably one of the better unique units from its tech level in that game. A swordsman replacement that doesn’t require iron and gets a bonus in forests, it had some hefty upgrades. Unfortunately, the Iroquois' low-tier status in that game left its power underappreciated. If the Iroquois get reworked inCivilization 7, then the Mohawk Warrior could finally get the respect it deserves.
Civilization 7is going to be spoiled for choice when it comes to civs, leaders, and units. While there are a few obvious candidates for returnees, a good way toshake upCivilization 7’s status quowould be to revitalize some old units that players may not expect to see again.Civilization 7has a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into these units for the next generation of players.
