The release date of Firaxis Games' highly anticipated turn-based strategy game "Sid Meier's Civilization VI" is just around the corner. Seasoned "Civilization" fans pretty much know what to expect from the game, but here's everything you need to know ahead of the game's launch.

What Is "Sid Meier's Civilization"?

The "Civilization" franchise, which started in 1991, is a series of turn-based strategy games centered on building a civilization from prehistory up to modern times, using various units to gather resources and build and improve cities, as well as initiate negotiations with other players.

The franchise now has tons of titles under its belt, as well as numerous spin offs.

What's New In "Civilization VI"?

Apart from the usual elements found in previous "Civilization" games, "Civilization VI" introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as "unstacking cities," wherein some improvements to cities must be placed in the hexes in the bounds of the city but not within the city's space itself, according to Game Informer.

Another huge change is the active research system. The game's technology tree is tweaked in such a way that the players will be given a significant boost if they have access to appropriate improvements or resources. Masonry will receive a significant boost if a quarry is built, for example.

A new feature, called Eureka Moments, will boost the player's progress towards certain technologies after completing a specific task in the game.

Which Civilizations Should We Expect In "Civilization VI"?

Firaxis has revealed a handful of civilizations available in "Civilization VI," and they will be revealing more in the lead up to the release date.

Here are the civilizations we know so far: Russia, Sumeria, Rome, Greece, Norway, Kongo, India, Spain, Germany, Scythia, Brazil, France, Aztec, China, Egypt, Japan, England and America. Details about these civs can be found on the "Civilization" Youtube channel.

"Sid Meier's Civilization VI" will be launched on the PC on October 21.