From Myth to Civ 7: 3 Legendary Figures Who Could be Leaders

With the arrival of Edward Teach (Blackbeard) in Civilization 7: Tides of Power, the door has officially opened for leaders who blur the line between history and legend. Blackbeard himself exists somewhere between documented reality and myth, raising an exciting question: Which other semi-historical, legendary figures could join the Civ 7 Leaders roster?

Civ 7 Legendary Leaders

Here’s a look at three compelling choices—figures rooted in history yet elevated by folklore—who could translate into fascinating leaders with unique attributes, mechanics, and gameplay potential.

Joan of Arc

One of the earliest mythologized figures to appear in the Civilization franchise was Joan of Arc, featured as France’s leader in Civilization III. Though not a traditional head of state, her role as a visionary, spiritual icon, and battlefield commander helped redefine what a Civ leader could be.

A modern reintroduction in Civilization 7 presents several gameplay possibilities:

Potential Attributes

• Religious / Militaristic blend, reflecting her legendary battlefield inspiration

• Alternatively Cultural, emphasizing symbolism, unity, and national identity

Unique Mechanics

• Religious units or priests gaining combat buffs when grouped with her

• A commander mechanic, where Joan herself appears on the battlefield with leadership bonuses

• A special unit or ability enhancing morale, defense, or spiritual pressure

Joan of Arc remains one of the most fitting choices for Civ 7 if the developers choose to lean into myth-tinged historical personalities once more.

From Myth to Civ 7: 3 Legendary Figures Who Could be Leaders | New Civilization 7 Leaders

King Arthur

If any figure embodies the combination of folklore and leadership potential, it is King Arthur. The legendary ruler, his Knights of the Round Table, and the mythic Camelot are ingrained in Western storytelling. While never featured as a Civ leader, Arthur did appear as a hero-unit option in Civilization VI, proving that Firaxis is not afraid to embrace the mythic side of history.

Potential Attributes

• Militaristic, as a baseline

• Expansionist or Wildcard, reflecting his far-reaching cultural footprint

Possible Abilities

• A “Round Table” mechanic granting unique knight or commander units

• A one-time summonable hero (e.g., Galahad or Lancelot) for critical battles

• A “Sword in the Stone” ability that unlocks a powerful late-game bonus through specific conditions

• Morale-boosting auras tied to chivalry or loyalty systems

King Arthur could add a dramatic, flavorful twist to any Civ lineup—an ideal blend of legend, honor, and battlefield presence.

Read More: Will Civ 7 Ever Get a 4th Age?

Grigori Rasputin

Few historical figures in the modern era have been shrouded in mystery quite like Grigori Rasputin. His political influence, alleged mysticism, and infamous reputation make him one of the most compelling—and controversial—candidates for a Civ 7 leader.

A popular fan-made version of Rasputin already exists in the Steam Workshop, demonstrating strong player interest and providing a template for how he might function.

Potential Attributes

• Diplomatic / Cultural, reflective of his manipulation, infiltration, and charisma

• Alternatively Economic, referencing his historical access to wealth and the elite

Possible Abilities

• Spy-focused mechanics, giving him bonuses to infiltration or political pressure

• Influence-based systems allowing him to destabilize neighbors or strengthen alliances

• Late-game cultural pressure tied to mysticism and public fascination

• A unique governor-style influence over cities, mirroring his sway over the Russian royal court

Rasputin could bring a deliciously chaotic playstyle—one focused on deception, intrigue, and back-channel diplomacy.

Final Thoughts

Joan of Arc, King Arthur, and Grigori Rasputin each blend reality with myth in unique ways, making them memorable and highly thematic choices for future Civilization 7 content. Whether added through DLC, expansions, or special modes, these figures could deepen the roster while introducing fresh gameplay mechanics tied to religion, chivalry, or political intrigue.

Many more myth-tinged personalities—from Mulan to William Wallace—could fit Civ’s evolving approach to leader design. As Civilization 7 continues expanding, the line between history and legend may become one of its most exciting design spaces.

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