Can Submarines Go Under Ice in Civ 6? A Deep Dive

Yes, in Civilization VI, submarines and nuclear submarines can traverse ice tiles. However, unlike in previous iterations of the game, they cannot hide beneath the ice to evade enemy units. This change alters the strategic use of submarines in arctic regions, emphasizing offensive capabilities rather than stealthy ambushes in icy waters. This means that while you can certainly explore and project power in icy areas with your submarines, enemy units will still be able to spot and engage you. So, tactical awareness and careful positioning become crucial when operating in the Arctic and Antarctic regions of the Civ 6 map.

Understanding Submarine Mechanics in Civilization VI

Submarines in Civ 6 are powerful naval units, capable of launching surprise attacks and projecting naval power across vast distances. While they can operate in ice tiles, their vulnerability to detection adds a layer of strategic complexity to their deployment. Let’s explore the nuances of submarine usage in the game.

The Evolution of Submarine Tactics in Civilization

Previous Civilization games, like Civ V, allowed submarines to hide under ice tiles, making them incredibly difficult to detect. This mechanic led to unique strategies centered around ambushing unsuspecting naval units venturing into arctic waters. Civ 6, however, adopts a more straightforward approach, eliminating the “hidden under ice” mechanic and forcing players to rely on other means of concealment and tactical positioning.

Strategic Implications of No Ice Hiding

The removal of the “hidden under ice” ability impacts several aspects of naval warfare in Civ 6:

• Increased Risk in Arctic Regions: Submarines operating in icy waters are now more vulnerable to detection by enemy ships and coastal cities.
• Emphasis on Tactical Positioning: Players must carefully position their submarines to maximize their offensive capabilities while minimizing the risk of being ambushed.
• Importance of Reconnaissance: Scouting enemy naval movements becomes even more crucial to avoid costly engagements.
• Shift in Naval Doctrines: Strategies emphasizing stealth and ambush tactics in icy regions are no longer viable, forcing players to adapt their naval doctrines.

How to Effectively Use Submarines in Civ 6

Despite the change in mechanics, submarines remain valuable assets in Civ 6. Here are some tips for effectively using them:

• Utilize Coastal Raids: Submarines can quickly raid coastal cities and improvements, disrupting enemy economies and military production.
• Launch Nuclear Strikes: Nuclear submarines are capable of launching devastating nuclear strikes on enemy cities, turning the tide of war.
• Escort Naval Fleets: Submarines can provide valuable escort protection for naval fleets, screening them from enemy submarine attacks.
• Invest in Naval Technology: Upgrading your submarines with advanced technologies will improve their combat effectiveness and survivability.
• Pair with Air Support: Coordinate submarine attacks with air support to overwhelm enemy defenses and maximize damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Submarines in Civ 6

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding of submarines in Civilization VI:

1. Can submarines launch nukes in Civ 6? Yes, Nuclear Submarines are capable of launching nuclear and thermonuclear devices on enemy cities or units within range.
2. Can a submarine take a city in Civ 6? No, submarines cannot capture cities in Civ 6. Only melee naval units can capture cities.
3. Do submarines exert zone of control in Civ 6? No, submarines do not exert a zone of control, meaning enemy units can move past them freely.
4. How do you use the nuclear submarine in Civ 6? Once you have built a Nuclear Device, select your Nuclear Submarine, choose “WMD Strike,” and target the desired city or area.
5. Can ships capture cities in Civ 6? Only melee naval units can capture cities. Submarines are not melee units.
6. Can you shoot down nukes in Civ 6? Mobile SAM units have a chance to intercept nukes launched from Missile Silos and Nuclear Submarines if the target is within their defensive radius.
7. What units can detect submarines in Civ 6? Destroyers, Cruisers, and Aircraft Carriers can detect submarines. Coastal cities also reveal submarines within their range.
8. How do submarines navigate? In real life, Submarines carry an inertial navigation system, which measures the boat’s motion and constantly updates position.
9. Are submarines effective against cities? Submarines are effective for coastal raids, but they cannot capture cities themselves. They excel at damaging city defenses and infrastructure.
10. What are the advantages of using submarines? Submarines offer high mobility, stealth (until detected), and the ability to launch long-range attacks, including nuclear strikes.
11. What are the disadvantages of using submarines? Submarines are vulnerable to detection by specialized units and cities, and they cannot capture cities.
12. How can I protect my submarines from being detected? Invest in naval technology to improve your submarines’ stealth capabilities and escort them with screening units.
13. What are the best technologies for enhancing submarine warfare? Focus on technologies that unlock advanced submarine models, improve detection avoidance, and enable the deployment of nuclear weapons.
14. How does terrain affect submarine movement in Civ 6? Submarines can move through deep ocean and ice tiles, but their movement is limited in shallow waters.
15. Are submarines a good investment in Civ 6? Submarines can be a valuable asset if used strategically, providing offensive firepower, reconnaissance capabilities, and the potential for nuclear deterrence.

By understanding the mechanics and strategic implications of submarines in Civ 6, you can effectively utilize these units to dominate the seas and achieve victory. And, if you want to delve deeper into the learning aspect of games, consider checking out the resources at Games Learning Society or visit GamesLearningSociety.org.