Age of Empires IV

Real-time strategy

Age of Empires IV is a real-time strategy game that focuses on building civilizations, managing resources, and commanding armies through historical conflicts. Players guide one of several unique civilizations from the medieval era while expanding their empire. Strategic planning, economic management, and battlefield tactics determine victory.

Age of Empires IV
0
Developer:
Relic Entertainment
Publisher:
Xbox Game Studios
Release Date:
October 28, 2021
Platforms:
PC, Xbox Series X/S
Who Should Play:
Players who enjoy traditional RTS mechanics, historical settings, and competitive multiplayer ladder play.
Who Should Skip:
Players seeking turn-based strategy, minimal micromanagement, or low-pressure competitive environments.

Ratings

Monetization

80
Premium

Solo Friendliness

85
Yes

Grind

75
Light

Complexity

50
Deep

Time Commitment

Main Story Hours

20

Completionist Hours

80

Gameplay

Monetization

• The base game is sold as a premium purchase.

• Expansion packs add new civilizations and campaigns without pay-to-win systems.

• There are no microtransactions affecting competitive balance.

Solo Friendliness

• The full campaign is fully playable solo against AI opponents.

• Skirmish and custom matches allow offline practice.

• Competitive multiplayer is optional and not required for core enjoyment.

Grind

• Campaign progression is mission-based without repetitive resource farming.

• Multiplayer skill growth depends on practice rather than grind systems.

• Civilization mastery comes through strategic learning rather than unlock loops.

Complexity

• Each civilization features distinct mechanics and economic bonuses.

• Macro management and micro control must be balanced during battles.

• Map awareness and timing windows are critical in competitive play.

Gallery

Full Verdict

It delivers a polished real-time strategy experience built around asymmetrical civilizations, economic management, and tactical battlefield control. The campaign offers a structured solo experience, while multiplayer provides long-term engagement through skill mastery rather than grind systems. The time commitment grows with competitive play, but progression remains tied to strategic improvement instead of resource farming. With fair premium pricing and no pay-to-win mechanics, it offers strong value for players seeking traditional RTS depth and historical flavor.

Ideal For

• Players seeking classic RTS base-building and tactical combat.

• Fans of historical civilizations with asymmetrical design.

• Competitive gamers interested in ranked ladder progression.

Potential Drawbacks

• Learning curve can be steep for RTS newcomers.

• High-level multiplayer requires strong micromanagement skills.

• Campaign replay value is moderate compared to sandbox modes.