Jose Rizal debuts as playable leader in ‘Civilization VII’

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Formerly, Filipino fans could only rely on mods to play as Jose Rizal in ‘Civilization’

MANILA, Philippines – It has finally happened for Filipino fans of the world’s most popular 4X strategy game, Civilization: Jose Rizal will finally be a selectable leader in the game.

The hero was revealed as part of the roster of the upcoming Civilization VII, joining the likes of other historic figures such as Catherine The Great, Charlemagne, Benjamin Franklin, and Augustus.

The leaders featured in the Civilization have always been a big draw among fans, and the game has seen the likes of mainstays such as Abraham Lincoln, Julius Caesar, Queen Elizabeth, and Mahatma Gandhi.

These leaders have abilities that help their in-game civilizations progress — abilities that reflect their real-life legacies.

Online, Filipino fans have wondered how a Jose Rizal in Civilization would play like, and there have been some user-made PC mods  that put the hero in past games.

But now, Firaxis Games officially brings Rizal to the roster.

Here is Rizal’s official leaderdescription from Firaxis:

“Long regarded as a hero of the Philippines, José Rizal was a passionate defender of the dignity and autonomy of Filipinos. He first gained his reputation as a political activist in Europe, criticizing the Spanish rule of his homeland, and though he advocated for peaceful reform and equal rights, Rizal was eventually tried and executed by the Spanish. Yet his revolutionary spirit could not be contained, and has inspired Filipinos ever since.”

Rizal’s traits include the unique ability “Pambansang Bayani,” which works as follows:

• When gaining rewards from a Narrative Event, gain additional Culture and Gold per Age. Increased Celebration duration and Happiness towards Celebrations. Has additional Narrative Events.
• He will have traits that lean towards a cultural, and diplomatic playstyle, and an agenda called “Kapwa” that affects certain relations with other civilizations.

Civilization VII comes out on February 11, 2025. – Rappler.com