Age of Empires IV

A great real-time strategy game with brilliantly done campaigns that fold in genuine historical narration and key-moment battles across factions like the English, French, and Mongols, plus strong tutorials. The distinct faction playstyles and flexible skirmish mode add lasting appeal, and it runs well. The main weakness is inconsistent skirmish AI that needs work, and the graphics feel a touch underwhelming for the budget. Definitely worth a buy.

An addictive, accessible real-time strategy game that pairs satisfying combat and deep, distinct army intricacies with an excellent, documentary-style history presentation and a clean, legible HUD. The civilization-style buildup and skirmishes are a highlight, though some campaign missions feel too scripted and can drag, and the content can feel a bit light. Overall a strong, genuinely fun entry that's well worth the price.

A safe sequel that essentially remakes Age of Empires II with fewer factions, some economic tweaks, and online requirements for unlocks rather than meaningful innovation. Skirmish mode carries the experience and is fun, but the campaign is dull and narrated like recited Wikipedia, while battles often devolve into building faster and bull-rushing rather than real strategy. Buggy unit behavior and three overlapping tutorial systems add to the unevenness.

A polished, modernized real-time strategy game that stays close to the Age of Empires II formula while beefing it up for current hardware. Strengths include genuinely distinct civilizations, a strong campaign with engaging documentary-style breakdowns, solid visuals, music, and extensive accessibility options. It does not revolutionize the series and keeps minor issues like a 200 unit cap and messy pathfinding, but it serves as an excellent entry point for new players.