New Player Guide
Getting Started
Read the Rules
Welcome to Civ13. Please take a moment to read the server rules before joining a round.
Joining a Server
If you already have the BYOND client installed, skip to the server links below.
- Download the current stable client from the official BYOND download page and install it. BYOND lists Windows as its player platform; its Linux download is for development and hosting, not playing. macOS is not listed as a supported player platform.
- Open BYOND and search for Civilization 13. Select the game and choose Join, or use a direct link:
- The game downloads its files and starts in the Lobby. Before joining a round, make sure to read the Rules.
Controls
Check Hotkeys.
Your first round
Use the Game Modes Overview to find your scenario's first steps and detailed guide.
Read the lobby's map and mode before choosing a role. In Nomads, start with the Starter Guide: secure water, food and shelter before advancing production. Use Character & Skills when an interaction says you lack expertise.
Crafting depends on the active map's catalog, era, character skills and research mode. A recipe listed here may be unavailable on your map. For the tech-tree mode, read Research; older modes have separate rules in Civilizations and Nomads.
For later production, see Chemistry, Power & Batteries, and Crafting.
Use Farming for seeds and irrigation, Medical for illness treatment, Winter & Long Rounds for cold protection and debris storage, and Resource Extraction for gathering and powered production.
TDM / Team Deathmatch Modes
Browse maps and scenarios to see the available battles.