Sometimes, running a game in fullscreen mode can cause stuttering, especially if your system struggles to maintain stable performance. While fullscreen mode is generally preferred for immersive gameplay, switching to borderless window mode can often fix these issues.

Borderless window mode runs the game in a window without visible borders while still taking up the full screen. This mode often offers benefits like better stability and smoother performance. For this, follow these steps:

• Open Civilization 7 and go to Settings.
• Navigate to the Graphics section.
• Change Display Mode from Fullscreen to Borderless Windowed.
• Apply the changes and restart the game.

The same method was also used by a Civilization 6 player to fix stuttering in their game, and we’re confident it will work for the sequel as well.

Your graphics card plays a huge role in how well Civilization 7 runs, and having outdated drivers can cause major performance problems. Nvidia, AMD, and Intel frequently release new GPU drivers that improve compatibility with the latest games, including Civilization 7.

New drivers optimize performance for newly release games and fix known bugs that can FPS drops, stuttering, freezing, and other similar issues. On top of that, they improve stability, which prevent major issues like crashes.

• Nvidia users can use the Nvidia App or go to Nvidia’s official website.
• AMD users can use the AMD Adrenalin Software or visit AMD's driver page.
• Intel users can use the Intel Driver & Support Assistant or check Intel's website for the newest driver updates.

Overheating is one of the most common reasons why games start stuttering, freezing, or dropping FPS over time. When your CPU or GPU reaches unsafe temperatures, your system throttles performance to prevent overheating damage, leading to lag and FPS drops.

Use a tool like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to check your CPU and GPU temperatures while playing Civilization 7. If your temperatures exceed the safe levels, your system is likely overheating.

To prevent overheating, take steps like cleaning your PC, which involves removing dust from fans and vents to improve airflow, and replacing the thermal paste of your GPU and CPU. On top of that, we also recommend adding more case fans and investing in a better air or liquid cooler. Scanning your PC for malware is also recommended, as hidden programs might be using your system’s resources.

If your PC only meets the minimum system requirements, you shouldn't expect to play Civilization 7 at ultra settings or high resolutions like 1440p or 4K. Running the game at settings too high for your hardware can cause constant stuttering, FPS drops, and freezing.

• Open Civilization 7 and go to Settings.
• Lower the following settings to Low or Medium:
  • Texture Quality
  • Shadow Quality
  • Anti-Aliasing
  • Post Processing Effects
• Turn off Motion Blur and Depth of Field.
• Set Resolution to 1080p – If your GPU isn't powerful, don't push for 1440p or 4K.

If you're using a low-end GPU like a GTX 1050, you should expect to play at 1080p with everything set to Low. Only high-end GPUs like the RTX 4080 or RX 7800 XT can handle ultra settings smoothly at 1440p or 4K.