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This classic real-time strategy series first debuted in 1997. Now it’s 2021 we have the fourth entryꦬ and it’s a welcome comeback for this RTS stalwart that specialises in historical settings. Age of Empires IV is set in the medieval period and features multiple campaigns that focus on the Normans, Mongols, Rus, and English.
Age of Empires IV lets players take control of eight different civilizations. Players partake in a satisfying gameplay loop of exploring new lands, expanding their civilisation’s economy, and conquering new ones. There is an expansive campaign that can span multiple civilizations. But for longterm fans the real experience lies in the multiplayer encounters but there is also an option of AI-🍸controlled battles.
Developed by Vancouver, Canada-based Relic Entertainment, who took over from Ensemble, Age of Empires IV appears to be doing we♓ll among game revie🦋wers. On Metacritic, it currently weighs in at an impressive . Here is a run down of scores from some individual publications:
- PC Gamer:
- IGN:
- GamesRadar:
- VG247:
- NME:
- Gameinformer:
Overall, the consensus seems to be that Relic Entertainment has played a little too safe with the Age of Empires formula and perhaps should've experimented more. But there is ample praise for the refinement and polish of the game, with the siege battles being described as some of the best RTS games can offer. Plaudits are heaped on the expansive campaigns and the attention paid to historical details, with the Normans getting particularly glowing write-ups, and overall the sense of atmosphere for the period is well realised. However, the graphics have been criticised for being unimpressive and reviewers note more could have been made of the onscreen battles, which can lack a sense of drama.
For newcomers it seems Age of Empires IV is one of the high points of the series that takes much inspiration from the widely acclaimed Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, and has stepped away from thﷺe complexities of the third installment.
Age of Empires🔴 IV will be availa꧅ble on Steam and Xbox Game Pass for PC when it launches on October 28.
