Which Victory in Civilization VI is Easier: Domination or Religious?

In the grand strategy game Civilization VI, players have the option to pursue either a domination victory or a religious victory, each with its unique set of strengths and challenges. Determining which path is easier can depend on several factors, including your chosen civilization, playstyle, and the specific game conditions. This article will delve into the intricacies of both victory types to help you make an informed decision.

Domination Victory

Objective: Capture the capital cities of all other civilizations.

Strengths:

Military Focus: If you prefer a more aggressive playstyle, a domination victory can be straightforward. Civilizations like Alexander of Macedon and Genghis Khan of the Mongols have strong military units and bonuses that can facilitate this victory. Direct Engagement: Engaging directly with other civilizations can be more straightforward than spreading religion. This approach allows for more immediate and strategic confrontations.

Challenges:

Military Management: Achieving a domination victory involves constant military production and management, which can be resource-intensive and require careful planning. Diplomatic Consequences: Aggressive strategies can lead to diplomatic penalties and coalition wars against you, complicating your path to victory.

Religious Victory

Objective: Make your religion the predominant religion in the majority of civilizations.

Strengths:

Less Direct Conflict: You can often achieve this victory through diplomatic means and cultural influence rather than outright warfare, which can be more peaceful and strategic. Flexible Strategies: If you focus on faith generation and religious units, you can spread your religion effectively even without military conflict, providing a less confrontational approach.

Challenges:

Competition: Other civilizations might actively work against you, especially if they have strong religious units or a competing religion, adding a layer of complexity to your plans. Time-Consuming: Spreading your religion can take longer, and you may need to balance your military and diplomatic efforts to ensure your success.

Conclusion

Easier Victory Type: Generally, many players find a domination victory easier if they enjoy military gameplay and can maintain a strong army. However, for those who prefer a more strategic and less confrontational approach, a religious victory can also be achievable, especially with civilizations that have strong religious advantages like Gandhi or Saladin.

Ultimately, the ease of achieving either victory type can be influenced by your initial position, the map, and the AI's behavior. Adapting your strategy to the game conditions is key to maximizing your chances of victory.