Civilization VI Game Guides
Civilization VI Early Expansion: Scouting, Settlers, and Resources
The first 40 turns decide most Civilization VI games. Here is how to scout efficiently, place cities on strong tiles, and secure the resources that unlock your victory path.
Scout the map before rivals settle key tiles
Civilization VI's world map is revealed gradually. Early scouts should prioritize luxuries, strategic resources, natural wonders, and choke points before AI settlers claim them. The Civilization VI Wiki pages for strategic resources list what each era needs.
official Civilization VI game guide is the best starting point if you are new. Official patch notes can shift yields or barbarian spawns, so verify big changes on official PC update notes.
Settlers vs infrastructure
More cities mean more science, culture, and production — but each new city needs housing, amenities, and defense. Expand when you can support a settler without stalling your capital's district timing.
Route planning matters: mark iron, horses, and niter before the medieval era, learn where barbarian camps spawn in hills and forests, and avoid settling on floodplains without mitigation.
Why map vision helps in early game
Large continents hide rival capitals and city-states until mid-game. Knowing where enemies and resources sit saves turns whether you play peacefully or plan an early war. Our map reveal overview explains how full-map intel helps on huge maps.
Pair that with the radar guide for barbarian camp awareness during expansion pushes.
Practical expansion session
Pick one resource goal per session. Send two scouts, settle one strong second city, then reassess amenities. Check Civilization VI forums if a community thread reports a broken start location after a patch.