Civilization VI: Fastest Science Victory Civs, Ranked

Conquer Civ 6 with These Speedy Science Victory Civilizations

Civilization 6 offers three victory paths, but a swift Science victory can be surprisingly achievable with the right leader. While many civilizations excel at tech advancement, these leaders offer unique advantages for a rapid climb to technological dominance. Remember that strategic empire expansion is key to maximizing science output.

Seondeok - Korea:

Leader Ability: Hwarang: Each Governor promotion grants +3% Culture and Science to their city.

Civilization Ability: Three Kingdoms: Farms and Mines gain +1 Food and +1 Science respectively for each adjacent Seowon.

Unique Units: Hwacha, Seowon (+4 Science, -2 Science for adjacent Districts)

Seondeok's strength lies in the Seowon district and her Governor bonus. Prioritize Governor promotions for a significant science boost. Strategically place Seowons at least two tiles from your city center, adjacent to future mines to leverage Korea's unique ability. Early expansion is crucial to maximize Seowon benefits.

Lady Six Sky - Maya:

Leader Ability: Ix Mutal Ajaw: Cities within 6 tiles of your capital receive +10% to all yields and a free builder upon founding. Cities beyond 6 tiles suffer -15% yields.

Civilization Ability: Mayab: No housing from freshwater or coastal cities; +1 Amenity per luxury resource adjacent to the city center. Farms gain +1 Housing and +1 Production next to an Observatory.

Unique Units: Hul'che, Observatory (+2 Science from Plantation adjacency, +1 from Farms)

Lady Six Sky's early game is potent due to her capital's radius bonus. Focus on establishing 5-6 cities within that 6-tile radius. Position Observatories near plantations or farms to maximize their adjacency bonuses. Controlled expansion is key to avoid the yield penalty.

Peter - Russia:

Leader Ability: The Grand Embassy: Trade routes with more advanced civilizations grant +1 Science and +1 Culture for every 3 technologies or civics they possess.

Civilization Ability: Mother Russia: +5 extra tiles when founding a city; Tundra tiles provide +1 Faith and +1 Production. Units are immune to blizzards; enemies suffer double penalties in Russian territory.

Unique Units: Cossack, Lavra (Holy District replacement)

Peter's versatility makes him a strong contender for a Science victory. His trade route bonus ensures consistent science gains. Early aggressive expansion, leveraging Russia's extra founding tiles, is vital. Prioritize Campuses near mountains and develop strong trade routes for maximum science output.

Hammurabi - Babylon:

Leader Ability: Ninu Ilu Sirum: Receive the cheapest building for free when constructing a district (excluding Government Plaza) and a free Envoy when building any other district.

Civilization Ability: Enuma Anu Enlil: Eurekas instantly unlock technologies, but suffer -50% science empire-wide.

Unique Units: Sabum Kibittum, Palgum

Hammurabi's -50% science penalty is offset by rapid expansion and strategic Eureka exploitation. Focus on triggering Eurekas early, prioritizing production and city growth over immediate science. Use spies to accelerate Eureka progress. By the Classical Era, establish around six cities and utilize free buildings to boost science output. Maintain a balance between Eureka exploitation and late-game science production for a successful Space Race.

These strategies, combined with efficient tech choices and shrewd diplomacy, will significantly increase your chances of achieving a rapid Science victory in Civilization 6. Remember to adapt your approach based on the game's circumstances and the actions of your opponents.