Nyreason

In the evolving landscape of Age of Empires IV, downloadable content (DLC) expansions have played a pivotal role in enriching the game’s strategic depth and historical authenticity. Here’s a ranked overview of the top DLC expansions, evaluated based on the introduction of new civilizations, campaigns, mechanics, balance changes, and their overall impact on gameplay depth, multiplayer meta, and replayability.

1. The Sultans Ascend

Release Date: November 14, 2023

As the most substantial expansion in the series’ history, The Sultans Ascend introduces two highly anticipated civilizations:

• Byzantines: Reflecting the legacy of the Eastern Roman Empire, this civilization emphasizes architectural marvels like aqueducts and introduces a unique resource—olive oil. Their strategic advantage lies in hiring mercenaries and deploying Greek Fire in combat, adding layers to both economic and military strategies.
• Japanese: Capturing the essence of the samurai era, the Japanese civilization boasts units such as Samurai, Shinobi, Bannermen, and Onna-Musha. Their economic prowess is highlighted by a bonus where gathering gold or stone yields an additional 20% of the other resource, promoting flexible resource management.

The expansion also offers an eight-mission campaign set during the Crusades, where players lead Muslim resistance against various factions, including the Templars and Mongols. The inclusion of ten new maps and two biomes—Japanese Spring and Savanna—enhances environmental diversity, influencing strategic considerations in both land and naval battles. Notably, this DLC became the best-selling expansion in the franchise’s history, underscoring its significant impact on the game’s community.

2. The Mountain Royals

Release Date: August 22, 2023

The Mountain Royals expansion enriches the game by introducing two civilizations:

• Armenians: Known for their defensive capabilities and unique architectural styles, they bring distinct strategies to the battlefield.
• Georgians: With a focus on cavalry and mountainous warfare, they offer new tactical approaches.

While the expansion did not introduce new architecture sets, it expanded the Mediterranean set to encompass eight civilizations. The DLC also added new mechanics, such as moving dropsites and relics that can attack when garrisoned, offering fresh strategic elements.

3. Return of Rome

Release Date: May 16, 2023

This expansion serves as a bridge between Age of Empires titles, integrating elements from the original Age of Empires into the Age of Empires IV engine. It introduces:

• New Civilizations: Two civilizations from the original game, bringing classic units and buildings into the modern engine.
• Campaigns: Focused on historical figures like Sargon of Akkad, Pyrrhus of Epirus, and Trajan, offering players a nostalgic yet refreshed experience.

The DLC also revamped the mod system, enhancing customization options for players.

Conclusion

Each DLC expansion for Age of Empires IV has contributed uniquely to the game’s evolution, offering players new civilizations, campaigns, and mechanics that deepen strategic gameplay. The Sultans Ascend stands out for its comprehensive additions and significant impact on the community, while The Mountain Royals and Return of Rome provide valuable content that enriches the game’s historical and strategic diversity.