Civilization 6 How To Send Envoy

Civilization VI: Mastering the Art of Sending Envoys

Civilization VI's envoy system is a crucial element of diplomatic maneuvering and cultural expansion. Understanding how to effectively send envoys can significantly impact your game, allowing you to secure valuable alliances, influence city-states, and gain access to powerful bonuses. This guide will walk you through the process, providing tips and strategies to maximize your envoy's impact. This will cover everything from understanding envoy generation to strategically deploying them for maximum gains.

Understanding Envoy Generation

Envoys are generated through several means in Civilization VI, primarily through your civilization's culture. The more culture you produce, the faster you'll generate envoys. Specific policies and government types also influence envoy production rates. Furthermore, certain wonders and buildings can provide bonuses to your culture generation, indirectly boosting your envoy production. Keeping a close eye on your culture output is therefore key to maintaining a steady stream of envoys. Don't forget to consider the impact of your chosen government type and civic choices on your cultural output and, by extension, your envoy generation rate. Think strategically about which civics to prioritize to support your diplomatic and cultural goals.

How to Send an Envoy

Sending an envoy is straightforward. First, open the diplomatic screen. Locate the city-state or civilization you wish to influence. You'll see a button or icon representing the ability to send an envoy; it typically looks like a small figure representing an emissary. Clicking this will send an envoy to that target. Each envoy sent increases your influence with the target. However, bear in mind that sending multiple envoys to the same city-state may yield diminishing returns; you need to evaluate the impact of each envoy before committing to sending more.

Strategic Envoy Deployment: Maximizing Your Influence

The key to success with envoys isn't just sending them; it's sending them strategically. Consider these factors:

• City-State Priorities: Pay close attention to each city-state's preferred suzerain bonuses. Focus your envoys on city-states that align with your strategy. A city-state offering powerful military bonuses might be ideal for a militaristic playthrough, whereas a city-state providing scientific or cultural advantages could suit a different game style.
• Competing Civilizations: Keep an eye on your rivals. If another civilization is heavily influencing a crucial city-state, you might need to invest more envoys to compete. Don't be afraid to engage in a diplomatic "arms race" if necessary, but always weigh the costs against the potential benefits.
• Long-Term Strategy: Don't just focus on immediate gains. Consider the long-term benefits of forming alliances with specific city-states. Building relationships early can lead to significant advantages later in the game.
• Alliance Bonuses: Remember that establishing a suzerainty over a city-state provides substantial benefits, often including unique units, buildings, resources, and even diplomatic advantages. These bonuses are worth the investment of envoys.

Envoy Management: A Continuous Process

Managing envoys effectively is an ongoing process, not a one-time action. Continuously monitor your envoy production, track your influence with city-states, and adapt your strategy as the game progresses. Remember, diplomacy is a dynamic aspect of Civilization VI; what worked earlier in the game might not be as effective later on.

Beyond City-States: Utilizing Envoys for Diplomacy

While city-states are a primary focus, remember that envoys can also be used to improve relationships with other civilizations. Building positive relationships can lead to alliances, trade agreements, and even prevent conflicts. Utilizing envoys for general diplomacy is a valuable strategy, especially in managing relationships with potentially antagonistic neighbors.

By understanding envoy generation, mastering their deployment, and continually monitoring their impact, you'll significantly improve your diplomatic capabilities and increase your chances of achieving victory in Civilization VI. Remember, effective diplomacy is as crucial as military might and technological advancement in this complex and rewarding game.