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Age of Empires 3 vs. 4: Which Historical RTS Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between Age of Empires III (AoE3) and Age of Empires IV (AoE4) isn’t a straightforward decision. It boils down to your personal preferences as a real-time strategy (RTS) gamer. If you crave a more relaxed, campaign-focused experience with a sense of persistent progression and distinct civilizations, AoE3 is likely the better choice. However, if you value a more streamlined, competitive multiplayer experience that closely mirrors the core mechanics of the beloved Age of Empires II, then AoE4 will be a more satisfying pick. The “better” game depends entirely on what you are looking for in an RTS.

Diving Deep: Key Differences and Considerations

To truly understand the strengths and weaknesses of each game, let’s break down some of the key differences:

Gameplay Mechanics

AoE3: Decks and Home Cities: One of the most defining features of AoE3 is the Home City system. As you progress through a match, you accumulate experience that allows you to call in shipments of resources, units, or technologies from your Home City. These are determined by a customizable deck you build before each game. This adds a strategic layer not found in AoE4 and contributes significantly to the feeling of progress.
AoE4: Streamlined and Familiar: AoE4 deliberately hearkens back to the gameplay style of AoE2. It’s more focused on resource management, unit counters, and map control without the added complexity of decks or persistent progression. This makes it easier to pick up for AoE2 veterans but might feel less innovative to some.

Civilization Design

AoE3: Distinct and Asymmetrical: Civilizations in AoE3 are remarkably unique. Each has its own playstyle, strengths, weaknesses, and even unique units and technologies tied to their historical context. This asymmetrical design makes each game feel dramatically different depending on the civilizations involved.
AoE4: More Symmetrical, with Nuances: While AoE4 does have civilization bonuses and unique units, the civilizations are generally more symmetrical than in AoE3. This makes it easier to learn the game as a whole but potentially less rewarding for players who enjoy mastering the intricacies of a single, highly specialized civilization.

Art Style

AoE3: Realistic and Detailed: AoE3 aimed for a more realistic visual style. Buildings and units are highly detailed, contributing to an immersive experience.
AoE4: Simplified and Stylized: AoE4 opted for a more stylized and easily readable art style. While some found it cartoonish at launch, many appreciate the clarity it provides during fast-paced battles.

Player Base and Community

AoE3: Dedicated but Smaller: The AoE3 community is passionate and dedicated, especially with the Definitive Edition. However, it’s smaller than the AoE2 or AoE4 player base.
AoE4: Growing and Active: AoE4 launched with a significant player base and continues to receive regular updates and content drops, maintaining a healthy and active community.

Considering Your Playstyle

Ultimately, the better game depends on what you enjoy in an RTS:

For the Campaign Enthusiast: AoE3’s campaign offers a longer and more engaging narrative with a stronger sense of progression.
For the Competitive Player: AoE4 provides a cleaner and more balanced competitive experience, focusing on core RTS skills.
For the Experimenter: AoE3’s unique civilizations and deck-building system offer more opportunities for experimentation and personalized strategies.
For the Nostalgic: AoE4 offers a modern take on the classic AoE2 formula.

The Enduring Legacy of Age of Empires II

It’s important to acknowledge the shadow cast by Age of Empires II. Its enduring popularity and near-perfect gameplay have created a high bar for any successor. This often makes it difficult for newer titles in the series to gain the same level of widespread acclaim. Even with its merits, AoE4 sometimes struggles to escape comparisons to its predecessor.

The Role of Games Learning Society

The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) provides a platform to explore the educational aspects of games, including the Age of Empires series. Analyzing the strategic thinking, historical awareness, and resource management skills fostered by these games can highlight their value beyond simple entertainment. Understanding the intersection of games and learning can provide a richer understanding and appreciation of the Age of Empires series.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Age of Empires 4 worth getting if I love Age of Empires 2?

Yes, especially if you’re looking for a modern take on the classic AoE2 formula. AoE4 refines many of the core mechanics and provides a more accessible experience with updated graphics.

2. Which Age of Empires is the most played right now?

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition consistently has a strong player base, but Age of Empires IV also maintains an active and growing community. The overall player count can fluctuate, but both are popular choices.

3. Is Age of Empires 4 still popular?

Yes, Age of Empires IV remains popular. Regular updates, new content, and a dedicated player base ensure its continued success.

4. Why do some people think Age of Empires 4 is bad?

Some criticisms of Age of Empires IV include concerns about the pace of updates, balance issues with civilizations, and the initial art style. However, many of these issues are being addressed with ongoing development.

5. What is the easiest civilization to play in Age of Empires 4?

The English are often recommended as a beginner-friendly civilization in Age of Empires 4 due to their straightforward playstyle and strong economy.

6. Is Age of Empires 2 better than Age of Empires 3?

This is subjective. Age of Empires II is considered a classic and has a dedicated following, but Age of Empires III offers unique gameplay mechanics like the Home City system. Both games have their strengths.

7. Which Age of Empires has the best graphics?

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition has detailed and realistic graphics. Age of Empires IV has a more stylized but clear art style that makes it easier to read the battlefield.

8. Is Age of Empires 3 good for beginners?

Yes, while Age of Empires III has a high skill ceiling, it’s more accessible than Age of Empires II due to its streamlined mechanics and more straightforward resource management.

9. What time period does Age of Empires 3 cover?

Age of Empires III takes place during the Early Modern Age, between 1500 and 1850.

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

No, Age of Empires 4 is not intended to replace Age of Empires 2. It’s a separate entry in the series that offers a different gameplay experience.

11. What are the victory conditions in Age of Empires 4?

You can achieve victory in Age of Empires IV by destroying all of your opponent’s landmarks, constructing and holding all sacred sites, or constructing and defending a wonder for a set period.

12. Is Age of Empires a difficult game to learn?

Age of Empires can be challenging to learn, especially at a competitive level. However, with practice and dedication, players can master the basics and develop their skills.

13. Do I need to play the Age of Empires games in order?

No, you don’t need to play the Age of Empires games in any particular order. Each game is a standalone experience with its own campaigns and gameplay mechanics.

14. Are there bans in Age of Empires 4?

Yes, Age of Empires 4 has a ban system for players who engage in inappropriate behavior, cheating, or griefing.

15. What are the key strategic differences between AoE3 and AoE4?

AoE3 focuses on unique civilization mechanics driven by decks and home cities, leading to asymmetrical gameplay. AoE4 emphasizes core RTS skills like resource management, unit counters, and map control within a more symmetrical civilization design.

Is Age of Empires 3 or 4 better?