Age of Empires: To Conquer with II or IV? A Tactician’s Guide
Should you play Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition (AoE2:DE) or Age of Empires IV (AoE4)? The answer, as with any good strategic decision, depends on your specific goals and preferences. If you crave a deeply nostalgic experience, prefer mastering a vast roster of civilizations with well-defined, sometimes quirky, strengths and weaknesses, and enjoy a thriving, deeply established competitive scene, AoE2:DE is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more modern RTS experience with streamlined mechanics, asymmetrically designed civilizations that offer truly unique gameplay, and a more accessible entry point, AoE4 is the better choice. Ultimately, both are fantastic games, but cater to different sensibilities. This article will break down the key differences and help you decide which is right for you.
Delving into the Details: Comparing Age of Empires II and IV
The heart of the matter lies in understanding the nuances of each game. Both AoE2:DE and AoE4 share the core DNA of the Age of Empires franchise: resource gathering, base building, technology advancement, and military conquest. However, the execution of these elements differs significantly.
Gameplay Mechanics
AoE2:DE boasts a vast and intricate web of mechanics accumulated over two decades of expansions and updates. While this provides unparalleled depth and strategic options, it can also feel overwhelming for newcomers. Unit counters are extremely important, and mastering the rock-paper-scissors system is crucial for success. The game emphasizes macro-management – efficiently managing your economy and churning out units – as well as micro-management – precisely controlling individual units in battle to maximize their effectiveness.
AoE4, on the other hand, streamlines many of these mechanics. While unit counters still exist, they are less rigid. The game emphasizes civilization-specific unique units and mechanics, forcing players to adapt their strategies based on their chosen faction. AoE4 also puts greater emphasis on strategic map control and siege warfare, with fortified positions and siege engines playing a crucial role in battles. Fortification is the main defensive tactic in AOE4, making wall placements critical.
Civilizations and Asymmetry
AoE2:DE features a massive roster of over 40 civilizations, each with unique bonuses, technologies, and units. While some civilizations are objectively stronger than others, the sheer variety allows players to find a faction that suits their playstyle. Many players prefer AoE2 because each of the civilizations has many years worth of balance tweaks and changes applied to it.
AoE4 opts for a smaller, more carefully curated roster of civilizations. Each civilization in AoE4 is radically different from the others, with unique units, technologies, and even building mechanics. For example, the English can build networks of keeps for strong defensive lines while the Mongols focus on raiding and mobile warfare. This high degree of asymmetry requires players to learn completely different strategies depending on which civilization they are facing.
Learning Curve and Accessibility
AoE2:DE has a steeper learning curve due to its intricate mechanics and the sheer volume of information required to master the game. However, the vast community and abundance of resources, including tutorials and build orders, can help new players get started.
AoE4 is designed to be more accessible to new players, with improved tutorials, clearer tooltips, and a more intuitive user interface. The smaller civilization roster also makes it easier to learn the game’s core mechanics.
Graphics and Presentation
AoE2:DE features beautifully remastered graphics, bringing the classic game into the modern era while retaining its iconic art style. However, it still relies on a 2D isometric perspective.
AoE4 utilizes a modern 3D engine, resulting in more detailed graphics and animations. The game also features a unique visual style that prioritizes readability and clarity over photorealism. Some players are very critical of the art style, but most find the graphics and presentation acceptable.
Community and Competitive Scene
AoE2:DE boasts a massive and highly active community, with a thriving competitive scene. Regular tournaments with substantial prize pools keep the game fresh and exciting. The Games Learning Society can provide valuable insights into the educational aspects of gaming communities and how they foster learning.
AoE4’s community is smaller but growing. While its competitive scene is still developing, it is already attracting talented players and organizers.
Making the Choice: Which Game is Right for You?
Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Nostalgia: If you have fond memories of playing AoE2 in your youth, AoE2:DE will offer a powerful dose of nostalgia.
- Complexity: If you enjoy mastering intricate mechanics and deep strategic systems, AoE2:DE is the better choice. If you prefer a more streamlined and accessible experience, AoE4 is a better starting point.
- Civilization Variety: If you want a vast roster of civilizations to choose from, AoE2:DE is the clear winner. If you prefer fewer, but more distinct, civilizations, AoE4 is more appealing.
- Graphics: If you prioritize modern 3D graphics, AoE4 is the better choice.
- Community: Both games have active communities, but AoE2:DE has a larger and more established one.
- Cost: Consider the price of each game and any associated DLC.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both games yourself. Many players find enjoyment in both AoE2:DE and AoE4, appreciating their unique strengths and weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do more people play Age of Empires 2 or 4?
Currently, Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition generally has a higher player count than Age of Empires 4. While numbers fluctuate, AoE2:DE consistently maintains a strong player base.
2. Is AoE4 replacing AOE2?
No, AoE4 is not intended to replace AoE2. It’s a separate entry in the franchise, offering a different gameplay experience.
3. Is Age of Empires 2 still active?
Yes, Age of Empires 2 is very active, especially the Definitive Edition. It has a large and dedicated community.
4. Is Age of Empires 4 worth getting?
Yes, Age of Empires 4 is worth getting if you enjoy real-time strategy games and are looking for a modern take on the classic Age of Empires formula.
5. Which Age of Empires is most played?
Age of Empires 2, in its Definitive Edition form, is the most played Age of Empires game.
6. Is Age of Empires 2 addictive?
Like any engaging game, Age of Empires 2 can be addictive if you enjoy its gameplay loop and strategic depth.
7. Is Age of Empires 4 easy?
Age of Empires 4 is not necessarily easy, but it is more accessible to newcomers than AoE2. It has a lower skill floor, but still a high skill ceiling.
8. What should I build first in Age of Empires?
In both AoE2 and AoE4, a common opening strategy is to build houses to increase your population capacity, followed by gathering resources like wood and food to sustain villager production.
9. Is Age of Empires 3 or 4 better?
Whether AoE3 or AoE4 is “better” is subjective. AoE3 offers a different style of gameplay, with card decks and home city shipments, while AoE4 focuses on classic Age of Empires mechanics with asymmetric civilizations.
10. How many civilizations will Age of Empires 4 have?
As of the most recent updates, Age of Empires 4 has sixteen playable civilizations.
11. What makes AOE2 so good?
AOE2 excels due to its deep strategic gameplay, a vast roster of civilizations, a thriving community, and its enduring appeal as a classic RTS title.
12. Which Age of Empires is the best Reddit?
While opinions vary, Age of Empires 2 often receives the most praise on Reddit for its gameplay, community, and longevity.
13. Is Age of Empires 2 better than Age of Empires 3?
This is a matter of opinion, but many players consider Age of Empires 2 to be superior to Age of Empires 3 due to its more refined gameplay and enduring popularity.
14. How many civilizations will Age of Empires 4 have?
Currently, Age of Empires 4 has 16 civilizations.
15. Is the population limit 100 in Age of Empires 2?
No, the standard population limit in Age of Empires 2 is 200, although it can be increased to 500 in certain game modes or custom scenarios.
The choice between Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition and Age of Empires IV depends on your personal preferences as an RTS player. Consider the mechanics, asymmetry, accessibility, and community of each game before making a decision. Happy conquering!