'Civilization VI' release date: Aztec empire to arrive as early access pre-order bonus

Pre-order Civilization VI and get early access to the Aztec Civilization Pack.2K Games/Firaxis Games/Civilization

Developer Firaxis Games and publisher 2K Games recently announced a bonus for fans pre-ordering "Civilization VI," which they can enjoy for 90 days after release before other game owners get their copies.

An "Aztec Civilization Pack" will arrive upon the release of "Civilization VI" for those who signed up early for their game copy. This will arrive on Oct. 21, together with the game, and will offer three months of early access before it unlocks to other players. This game pack will be free for all owners, so no additional charges will be required, the announcement said.

The announcement further added that the civilization pack will include Montezuma, who was the second Aztec emperor and the fifth king of Tenochtitlan city. During his 29-year reign, the Aztec Empire was consolidated, major expansion was undertaken, and Tenochtitlan started becoming the dominant partner of the Aztec Triple Alliance.

Players will also receive the Eagle Warrior as a unique unit, which was an elite infantry of the empire considered the bravest men from the noble class. One could become an Eagle Warrior only after taking in 20 prisoners, who were good enough as human sacrifices to their gods.

A unique building called Tlachtli, which is similar to a basketball court of the present time only it was round in shape. The sport played on the court is similar to basketball. However, the Aztec version of basketball did not allow the use of hands.

Lastly, players will also receive Huey Teocalli as the wonder item of the empire, also known as the Greater Temple of the Aztecs. It is a giant terraced pyramid-like structure, where important rituals were performed.

Several civilizations have already been revealed by the publisher and developer, which include Japan, China, Egypt, England and America.

"Civilization 6" will hit the shelves on Oct. 21 for the Windows PC, macOS and Linux.