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Age of Empires: Clash of the Titans – Should You Play AOE 2 or AOE 4?

So, you’re itching for some real-time strategy action and the storied world of Age of Empires is calling your name. But which one to choose: the venerable Age of Empires 2 (AOE2), often lauded as the king of the RTS hill, or the newer, shinier Age of Empires 4 (AOE4)? The answer, as with many things, isn’t a simple yes or no. It hinges on what you’re looking for in a strategy game.

The Short Answer:

If you crave a deeply intricate and familiar experience with a passionate and established community, then Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is likely the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more streamlined, modern RTS experience with better accessibility for new players and a focus on visually striking battles, then Age of Empires 4 might be your perfect match. Both are excellent games, but they cater to slightly different tastes within the RTS genre.

Deeper Dive: AOE2 vs. AOE4

Age of Empires 2: The Timeless Classic

AOE2 has enjoyed an astounding longevity, consistently boasting a dedicated player base even decades after its initial release. The Definitive Edition has only amplified its appeal with enhanced graphics, new civilizations, and ongoing updates. Its strength lies in its depth:

Intricate Gameplay: The game is known for its complex mechanics, a vast array of unit types, and the importance of micro-management. Mastering AOE2 takes time and dedication.
Strategic Freedom: A huge roster of civilizations, each with unique units, technologies, and bonuses, provides an unparalleled level of strategic diversity.
Nostalgic Appeal: For many, AOE2 represents a golden age of RTS gaming, and the Definitive Edition successfully preserves that feeling while adding modern conveniences.
Active Community: The AOE2 community is alive and well, with a thriving competitive scene, numerous tournaments, and a wealth of online resources.

However, AOE2’s complexity can be daunting for newcomers, and its dated graphics (even in the Definitive Edition) might not appeal to everyone. Also, the pathing AI can sometimes be frustrating.

Age of Empires 4: A Modern Take

AOE4 represents an attempt to modernize the Age of Empires formula while retaining its core elements. It offers a more accessible entry point for new players and some compelling new features:

Streamlined Mechanics: AOE4 simplifies some of the complexities of AOE2, making it easier to learn and play.
Modern Presentation: The game boasts impressive graphics, detailed unit models, and a more visually appealing user interface.
Distinct Civilizations: While fewer in number than AOE2, the civilizations in AOE4 are exceptionally distinct, each with unique gameplay mechanics and visual styles.
Campaign Focus: AOE4 places a stronger emphasis on its single-player campaign, offering engaging historical narratives and cinematic cutscenes.

However, some long-time AOE fans may find AOE4 too simplified. Its relatively smaller civilization roster and the lack of certain features (like global queue) compared to AOE2 can be a drawback for some. The developers are addressing player feedback with regular patches and content updates, but it’s still a work in progress. Some consider the slow updates from the developers as a big problem.

Factors to Consider

When deciding between AOE2 and AOE4, consider these factors:

Your Experience with RTS Games: If you’re new to RTS games, AOE4 might be a more approachable starting point. If you are very experienced, the complexities of Age of Empires 2 might be preferable.
Your Preference for Complexity: Do you enjoy deep, intricate mechanics or prefer a more streamlined experience?
Your Tolerance for Dated Graphics: Can you look past the dated visuals of AOE2, or do you prefer the modern presentation of AOE4?
Your Desire for a Specific Historical Period: Both games cover different historical periods, so choose the one that interests you more.
Your Intention for Multiplayer: Do you plan to play competitively or casually? Both games have active multiplayer scenes, but the meta and community dynamics differ.
Cost: Consider the initial cost of each game and any potential DLC or expansions.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both games if possible. Many players enjoy both AOE2 and AOE4 for different reasons. This choice depends on personal preferences and whether you enjoy deeper mechanics or a more streamlined experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Age of Empires game has the most players?

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition and Age of Empires 4 both have active player bases. While AOE2 often has a consistently strong player count, AOE4 can see spikes in player activity, especially after content updates or during promotions. Player counts fluctuate, so it’s best to check Steam charts for the most current data.

2. Is Age of Empires 4 replacing Age of Empires 2?

No, Age of Empires 4 is not intended as a replacement for Age of Empires 2. They are separate games within the same franchise, offering different experiences for different types of players.

3. Is Age of Empires 4 worth getting?

Yes, Age of Empires 4 is worth getting if you’re looking for a modern RTS game with a focus on accessibility, distinct civilizations, and a strong single-player campaign. However, if you prefer the deep complexity of AOE2, you might want to temper your expectations.

4. Is Age of Empires 2 still good in [current year]?

Absolutely! Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition has aged incredibly well, thanks to its timeless gameplay, active community, and ongoing updates. It remains a highly enjoyable and replayable RTS experience.

5. Which Age of Empires is the best for beginners?

Age of Empires 4 is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its streamlined mechanics, clearer presentation, and more comprehensive tutorials.

6. What are the key differences between Age of Empires 2 and 4?

Key differences include: Graphics, complexity of mechanics, civilization design, UI, and emphasis on single-player vs. multiplayer. AOE2 has a lot of civilization and a steep learning curve. AOE4 has fewer civilizations and a greater emphasis on accessibility.

7. Is Age of Empires 2 more competitive than Age of Empires 4?

Both games have competitive scenes, but Age of Empires 2 has a longer-established and arguably more mature competitive environment. The Age of Empires 2 e-sports scene is much larger and more robust than the Age of Empires 4 e-sports scene.

8. What makes Age of Empires 2 so popular?

AOE2‘s popularity stems from its deep gameplay, strategic freedom, nostalgic appeal, and active community. These factors have contributed to its enduring legacy as a classic RTS title.

9. Which civilization is the strongest in Age of Empires 2?

The “strongest” civilization depends on the map, patch, and player skill. However, civilizations like the Lithuanians, Mayans, Britons and Franks are often considered to be very strong in various scenarios. The Huns are a particularly strong civilization in Age of Empires 2.

10. Which civilization is the strongest in Age of Empires 4?

Again, the “strongest” depends on the patch and player skill. However, the Mongols, English, and French are frequently cited as powerful civilizations in Age of Empires 4.

11. What are the population limits in Age of Empires 2 and 4?

In Age of Empires 2, the standard population limit is 200, but it can be increased to 500 in some game modes or with mods. In Age of Empires 4, the population limit is typically 200.

12. Is Age of Empires 4 easier than Age of Empires 2?

Yes, Age of Empires 4 is generally considered easier than Age of Empires 2. It has simpler mechanics and a more intuitive interface, making it easier to learn.

13. What are the system requirements for Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition and Age of Empires 4?

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition has lower system requirements than Age of Empires 4. You can find the specific system requirements for each game on their respective Steam pages. Age of Empires 4 will require more modern hardware than Age of Empires 2, but not extremely so.

14. Can you get banned in Age of Empires 4?

Yes, you can get banned in Age of Empires 4 for various reasons, including cheating, abusive behavior, and violating the game’s terms of service.

15. Where can I learn more about game design and learning?

You can find valuable resources and information on the intersection of games and learning at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org hosts resources for educators, researchers, and developers interested in the educational potential of games.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, the decision of whether to play Age of Empires 2 or Age of Empires 4 comes down to personal preference. Both are excellent RTS games that offer unique and rewarding experiences. Consider your own gaming style, your tolerance for complexity, and your desire for a specific historical setting when making your choice. And who knows, you might just end up enjoying both!

Should I play AOE 2 or 4?