While there are several games set in the Pacific Islands, we feel that Firaxis’ Civilization series is one that has managed to provide representation for peoples in the region. In Civilization V, players can choose the Polynesian civ led by King Kamehameha I. While the civ has access to the Maori Warrior unit and Moai improvement, it’s the Wayfinding perk that seals the deal, since it allows for instant embarkation and movement across ocean tiles. To those who don’t play Civilization games, this might not seem much, but it’s actually a huge boon since early exploration leads to continuous expansion. The ability is quite fitting as well, as the Polynesians of yore were known seafarers who ventured far and wide.

Come Civilization VI, we see the Maori led by Kupe, a legendary explorer said to have sailed from Hawaii to Aotearoa (New Zealand). By default, the civ has the Sailing and Shipbuilding technologies unlocked, which are great for early-game naval supremacy, and, as usual, units are able to enter ocean tiles immediately. The key feature, however, is Kupe’s Voyage, which causes your Settler to start in the middle of the ocean. Naturally, you have to find land to create your first settlement, though every turn before you do that also grants science and culture. It’s as though Kupe continues to build his legend across the waves.

The latest entry to the franchise, Civilization VII, introduces Hawaii as a playable nation. Just like its geographical location, Hawaiian settlements on islands and on the coast have an advantage, since expansion to marine tiles nets a cultural bonus. That said, Civilization VII actually makes leaders and nations separate from one another. As of the time of this writing, we’ve yet to see a playable Polynesian leader in the game.