Age of Empires IV is a real-time strategy game that brings historical battles and empire-building to life on PC. Released in 2021, it continues the legacy of the series with a focus on commanding civilizations through different historical ages, gathering resources, and engaging in tactical combat.
Gameplay
In Age of Empires IV, players manage resources like food, wood, gold, and stone to build and expand their settlements. The core loop involves advancing through four ages - Dark, Feudal, Castle, and Imperial - each unlocking new technologies, units, and buildings. Combat emphasizes unit formations, terrain advantages, and siege mechanics, with civilizations offering unique bonuses and playstyles.
Mechanics include villager assignment for gathering and construction, military production from barracks and other structures, and landmark buildings that define age progression. The game features asymmetrical faction designs, where each civilization has distinct units and strategies, such as the English with strong longbowmen or the Mongols with mobile armies.
Game Modes
Age of Empires IV includes a single-player campaign mode with historical narratives centered on events like the Norman Conquest or the Hundred Years' War. Multiplayer options cover skirmish battles against AI or other players, with support for up to eight participants in matches.
Competitive play features ranked ladders for matchmaking, and quick matches for casual sessions. The game also offers custom scenarios and a map editor for creating personalized experiences.
Factions and Updates
As of 2026, Age of Empires IV has expanded through updates adding new civilizations like the Byzantines and Japanese, bringing the total to over ten playable factions. Seasons introduce balance changes, new maps, and events to keep the multiplayer scene active.
- English: Focus on defensive structures and archery.
- French: Cavalry emphasis with faster knight production.
- Chinese: Gunpowder innovations and dynasty system.
- Mongols: Nomadic mobility without traditional houses.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception highlights the game's strong foundation in classic RTS elements, with Metacritic user reviews praising its graphics and tuned systems. In 2026, ongoing updates maintain a healthy community, especially in multiplayer with 70 official maps available.
For fans of strategic depth and historical themes, Age of Empires IV remains a solid choice, particularly if you enjoy building empires and competing online. It's available through Game Pass, making it accessible for those curious about trying it without a full purchase commitment.
