Xbox gamers eagerly anticipating the release of Age of Empires IV, developed by Relic Entertainment, will be thrilled to know that the game is set to launch later this year during the autumn months of 2021. A quick teaser has been embedded in the latest This Week On Xbox episode released by Major Nelson, offering a glimpse into what players can expect from this highly anticipated title.
Game Mechanics and Features
As expected, Age of Empires IV continues the real-time strategy genre by providing both multiplayer and single-player modes set in the Middle Ages. The game will feature eight civilizations at launch, four of which have already been revealed: the English, the Mongols, the Chinese, and the Delhi Sultanate, which replaces the Indians from previous installments. Each civilization will come with its unique units, buildings, and technologies, offering diverse gameplay experiences.
One of the most exciting aspects of Age of Empires IV is its return to some of the beloved mechanics from Age of Empires II, the most successful game in the series. For instance, resources will once again require drop sites, and stone has been reintroduced to the list of resources. Monks will also make a comeback with the ability to convert enemy units. A notable change is that when monks hold a relic, they will have a conversion area of effect, a mechanic that was intended for Age of Empires II but was not included in the final game.
“Most game mechanics will migrate directly from Age of Empires II (as the most successful game in a series). For example, resources will require drop sites again, stone made its way back to the recourses’ list, and Monks could convert units once again. One known change about the monks is that when holding a relic, it has an conversion area of effect. This mechanic was intended for Age of Empires II, but was not added.”
Visuals and Historical Accuracy
Age of Empires IV promises to deliver stunning visuals that bring the Middle Ages to life. The game will feature detailed environments, realistic animations, and intricate building designs that reflect the architectural styles of the different civilizations. The developers have also emphasized historical accuracy, ensuring that the units, buildings, and technologies are true to the time periods they represent.
In addition to the visual enhancements, Age of Empires IV will include a dynamic weather system and day-night cycles, adding another layer of realism to the gameplay. These environmental factors will not only affect the aesthetics but also influence gameplay strategies. For example, certain units might perform better during specific weather conditions or times of the day, encouraging players to adapt their tactics accordingly.
Community and Future Updates
The Age of Empires community has always been passionate and engaged, and the developers at Relic Entertainment are committed to supporting the game post-launch with regular updates and new content. This includes additional civilizations, campaigns, and gameplay features that will keep the game fresh and exciting for years to come.
Moreover, the game will feature robust modding tools, allowing players to create and share their custom content. This has been a staple of the Age of Empires series, fostering a vibrant community of modders who contribute to the game’s longevity and replayability.
In conclusion, Age of Empires IV is shaping up to be a worthy successor to its predecessors, combining classic gameplay mechanics with modern enhancements. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, there’s plenty to look forward to when the game launches later this year.
Source: Major Nelson
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