Legacy in gaming is challenging to define. It can either provide a solid foundation for a game to thrive or set a bar so high that no future game can reach it. In this sense, legacy truly embodies the concept of a double-edged sword. Yet, despite this challenge, many games have built enduring legacies and succeeded, while others have stumbled. Among these legacies, perhaps the most intriguing is that of Age of Empires. When Age of Empires IV was released, its biggest competitor wasn’t a different title or series; it was its own predecessor, Age of Empires II, arguably the greatest RTS game of all time. After a rocky start, AOE IV has found its footing, with regular updates from the developers and a massive update plus DLC scheduled for release in 2025.
Recently Age of Empire IV just got its Season 9 update which revolved around the Halloween theme. Which included a new aesthetic for the game and a reward system for players who logged into the game between 22nd of October and 19th of November. Players who logged in the game during this could win a whole slew of customization options for their account. They simply had to fulfil the prerequisite needed to unlock them. This included, a Bubbling Cauldron, Jack-O-Lantern, Albino Rattus profile icon, and multiple different Coat of Arms for you to use.
Aside from these customization options the update also introduced a new game mode for a limited amount of time called, Full Moon. A wave defence mode, where players will build up defences until the Full Moon comes. Upon which multiple monsters, such as werewolf’s will come and attack your home base. Season 9 also brought with it all new ranked tier list for solo and teams, which goes live on October 22nd at 10:00am PT (17:00 UTC).
Seasonal updates aside we know the developers of the game are working on a massive update and DLC for the game which will be released next year. With it most likely being announced at the end of this month or the next. Now while we don’t know much about this DLC/update, we can be fairly certain that it will include new civilizations. Mostly focusing on older ones like the Maya or Inca and perhaps even some from Africa. It is also likely to bring with it many balance fixes and some much-needed buffs and nerfs. To make the competitive scene fairer and less micro intensive.
2025 is shaping up to be the best year yet for the Age of Empires franchise. With AOE II and Age of Mythology receiving substantial DLC expansions, and AOE IV introducing entirely new civilizations alongside additional DLC, it’s clear that listening to fans can work wonders for a studio – a lesson many AAA developers could benefit from. The player base has grown in recent years, sparking renewed interest in the genre. The future of RTS games hasn’t looked this bright in years.
