Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition News

Age of Empires IV – Season Ten Update 13.0.4178

Spring is officially here, and Age of Empires IV is almost ready to blossom with a new ranked season! This update brings with it a fresh map pool and a bundle of balance changes, along with the kickoff of Ranked Season Ten. Be on the lookout for the Clash of Champions mini event, along with a unique new map feature.

Alongside this update, we will be releasing the Knights of Cross and Rose DLC across all platforms! Players can look forward to two new variant Civilizations, the valorous Knights Templar and the ever-capable House of Lancaster. Additionally, the DLC will contain the new Historical Battles game mode, ten unique maps, and new achievements. Check out the announcement here, and from pre-order here, or read on for more details!

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Thanks again to our amazing community members, all of whom have helped to make Age of Empires what it is today!

—The Age of Empires Team

Please Note: As part of updating to this latest build, any saved games and observable matches made on previous builds will be unable to be loaded or replayed.

This is just a small taste of what is coming in the latest update. For a more complete list, please visit our site and check out our blog. Happy Gaming!

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        ◆Update 13.0.4178◆

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[h2]DLC Spotlight: Knights of Cross and Rose[/h2]

We will be launching our Season Ten update alongside our newest expansion, Knights of Cross and Rose! This DLC features new variant civilizations for the French and English, as well as a new game mode and ten maps.

[h3]Variant Civilization: Knights Templar[/h3]
The Knights Templar are making their debut as a new variant civilization for the French. Founded with the goal to protect pilgrims on their way to the Holy Land, the Templars became renowned for their financial sophistication and defensive fortresses in the Levant. We aimed to highlight their cultural and military excellence through unique, highly flexible gameplay.

The Knights Templar do not progress to the next age when a landmark is built, but rather age up with Town Centers. This allows them to select one of three Templar Commanderies per age, each providing their own set of powerful unique units and features. For example, players can select the Kingdom of Poland for a tanky Heavy Cavalry unit and a massive boost to Cavalry charge damage, or the Knights Hospitaller for a new Man-At-Arms variant and a civilization-wide boost to economic unit heath and healing received.

This variant civilization foregoes the French’s standard Trade Economy trait in favor of the new Pilgrimage trait. Instead of relying on Traders for gold generation, the Knights Templar gain gold by sending Pilgrims to Sacred Sites. In addition to this, they also reveal all Sacred Sites at the start of the game, so be sure to use this extra intel to plan out your pilgrimages!

This only scratches the surface of the many tricks the Knights Templar have up their sleeves, and we are beyond excited for Knights of Cross and Rose players to maximize their potential. The Knights Templar’s creative, game-bending playstyle not only shakes up established gameplay norms, but brings the rich history of one of France’s most renowned military orders to life.

[h3]Variant Civilization: House of Lancaster [/h3]
Fearless combatants in the Wars of the Roses, the House of Lancaster established themselves as Europe’s most dominant military force after winning the famous battle of Agincourt against the French. The House of Lancaster variant civilization showcases their undeniable military capability while also providing a streamlined, intuitive gameplay experience.

The House of Lancaster’s notorious prowess at range is well illustrated through their unique units. The variant civilization replaces the Longbowman with the all-new Yeoman unit. Not only is the Yeoman stronger and more mobile than your average archer, they can also rain down a volley of arrows with their unique Synchronized Shot ability. We all know it can be a delicate art balancing your army’s survivability with enough range to whittle down the enemy. However, you can have the best of both worlds with the House of Lancaster’s Earl’s Guard unit! This unique Man-At-Arms possesses the bulk and power you’d expect from a Heavy Infantry unit, but can also toss daggers at range to deal huge burst damage.

In addition to its powerful military units, the House of Lancaster gains several new traits that help players amass a veritable horde of resources. The Wool Industries trait grants players free sheep when a Town Center is built and allows villagers to gather from sheep faster. Additionally, players can construct several Manors throughout the game, providing the House of Lancaster a consistent stream of gold for each one built. The Manor’s abilities only grow as new unique Technologies are unlocked.

The House of Lancaster will provide a familiar, comfortable gameplay experience for Age of Empires IV players while also offering a bevy of unique traits to keep things fresh. We think this new variant civilization will be a favorite for new and old fans alike!

[h3]Game Mode: Historical Battles [/h3]
In the Knights of Cross and Rose expansion, players can dive into four new single player Historical Battles. Unlike the more narrative-centric campaigns, these scenarios focus on key moments throughout the history of the Knights Templar and the House of Lancaster. By narrowing our scope to singular, larger-than-life battles, we are able to provide an even richer historical experience than Age of Empires IV players have seen before!

In contrast to previous game modes, players are scored and ranked based on their performance during each Historical Battle rather than solely on their ability to secure a victory. Each battle is filled with secrets and traps for players to uncover, which can significantly affect their final score. Players can explore the intricacies of each map and use their discoveries to improve future playthroughs. Historical Battles are designed to be more than a one-time experience – we want players to feel compelled to attempt them time and time again!

[h2]Season Ten[/h2]
It’s time to flex your true strength. Season Ten runs from April 8th to June 25th.

Our first event of the season, Clash of Champions, is an opportunity to show your excellence in all forms, whether it be your skills in archery or jousting on horseback. Dominate the competition and display your rewards proudly.

Come join us in our first of several seasonal events, Clash of Champions, in a celebration of competitive spirit from April 8 through April 28th.
[h3]Clash of Champions Event[/h3]

[h3]Ranked Season Ten Updates[/h3]
It’s time to kick off a brand-new season! Season Ten follows the lords of the land and the citizens under their protection. Lead your people to victory and prosperity with a host of rewards for your efforts! Season Ten runs from April 8th to June 25th.

[h4]Map Pool Rotation[/h4]
We feel confident introducing our new maps directly to the Ranked Map pool! Test your mettle on this season’s new terrain and unique mechanics.

1v1 Ranked Map Pool
Prairie → Carmel
King of the Hill → Enlightened Horizon
Lipany → Relic River
Golden Heights → High View
Archipelago → Migration
Team Ranked Map Pool
Mountain Clearing → Waterlanes
Hideout → Volcanic Island
Lake Side → Wasteland
Nagari → Shadow Lake
Cliffside → Enlightened Horizon

[h3]New Feature: Points of Interest[/h3]
Points of Interest are dynamic reward locations being added to several maps. They feature neutral map objectives that provide players with various reward types. Some may grant a consistent flow of resource yields, while others can uncover a relic. While it can be tempting to focus exclusively on capturing them, your opponents can capture them back to steal the benefits. Just be warned that the wolves of the Wolf Den are more dangerous than ever before! More information can be found in the Maps section of the patch notes.

This is just a small taste of what is coming in the latest update. For a more complete list, please visit our site and check out our blog. Happy Gaming!

[h3]:alertalert: DISCLAIMER[/h3]This list is subject to change and should not be considered a comprehensive list of all the known issues we’re tracking. The above is to inform you of the team’s current priorities, which will change as other issues arise or take precedence.

For the latest updates and announcements, please visit our social channels.

Learn More About the Knights Templar!

The Knights Templar construct powerful Fortresses to cement control over the map, while providing inspiration to military troops and guide Pilgrims on their travels. Plus, each Commanderie grants the Knights Templar access to a unique bonus and unit, tailoring both economy and military to the situation.
Play the Knights Templar in Knights of Cross and Rose, coming to Age of Empires IV on April 8th!

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[h2]Live the Legacy – Pre-Order Now![/h2]

Pre-order today on Steam and get a 15% discount. Age of Empires IV – Knights of Cross and Rose is due out April 8th! The DLC is priced at $14.99 USD (please check your store of choice for your local pricing if you’re outside of the USA).

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3144890/Age_of_Empires_IV_Knights_of_Cross_and_Rose/

Ranked Season Nine Extended to April 7th

Good news, Conquerors! Ranked Season Nine has been extended to April 7th! This gives you more time to climb the ladder, sharpen your strategy, and secure that coveted crown. 👑

Don’t miss your chance to rise to the top! ⚔️

[h3]Ranked Season Nine Rewards[/h3]

Historical RTS Age of Empires 4 brings the Knights Templar to battle in new DLC

New Age of Empires 4 DLC Knights of Cross and Rose has a date, as developer World's Edge unveils the latest expansion for its iconic RTS game. The pack introduces two variant civilizations that transform their respective factions dramatically, ten more maps to ramp up variety, and a new game mode focused around key historical battles. Arriving in just a few weeks, you can grab Knights of Cross and Rose at a discount ahead of launch, and even get the base game at its lowest price yet on Steam if you're fast.

Read the rest of the story...

Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose – Pre-Order Now!

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Delve into the action of the next DLC for Age of Empires IV – Knights of Cross and Rose! Experience rich, historically-inspired design across a variety of additional content, including a different design philosophy behind two new variant civilizations – the Knights Templar and House of Lancaster.

Command these iconic armies straight out of history, and forge your own destiny! Lead the Knights Templar in the Battle of Montgisard as they stave off Saladin’s forces, and ensure the House of Lancaster’s survival against the Yorkists after a calamitous defeat at Towton. Knights of Cross and Rose launches on April 8th and is available for pre-order now on Steam with a 15% discount!

Knights of Cross and Rose delivers new experiences to Age of Empires IV players with:

Two new Variant Civilizations that change gameplay like never before – Knights Templar (French variant) and House of Lancaster (English variant).
New game mode: Historical Battles. Lead iconic armies in an action-packed battles inspired by history. Earn medals and test your strategic might in the optional Conqueror mode.
Ten new maps on which to skirmish, battle and forge your way to victory.
New Achievements

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3144890

[h2]Variant Civilizations [/h2]

We introduced Variant Civilizations to Age of Empires IV with Sultans Ascend. Since then, the team has pushed things even further to explore a broad range of history by highlighting specific moments in time. With the feedback from Sultans Ascend in mind, we’ve applied a more direct “civilization treatment” and aimed for as high a level of authenticity as possible. We’ve added more content, more unique units, more upgrades and more abilities.

We’re excited to present two exciting new Variant Civilizations: the Knights Templar and the House of Lancaster.

[h2]Knights Templar (French Variant)[/h2]

Command the indomitable Knights Templar with their valorous crusaders and blend of European military traditions, which brings a wide range of possible strengths

The Knights were a Military Order, bringing together individuals from a variety of nations. With a powerful unit roster, the Knights Templar’s unique recruitment system gives them a fun strategic edge.

With the real historic order, Templar Commanderies were established in almost every European Kingdom. In Knights of Cross and Rose, we bring this historic system to life through the Commanderie Age Up system. Select one of three allies with each Age to receive a permanent bonus and unique unit. With a broad roster of unique units to choose from, you’ll need to consider both your short and long-term strategy!

The Knights Templar’s unique keep, the Fortress, will play a key strategic role in their overall gameplay.

We can’t wait to see how things play out when you take command of this legendary Military Order when Knights of Cross and Rose launches on April 8th.

[h2]House of Lancaster (English Variant) [/h2]

Marshal the resolute forces of the House of Lancaster, stepping into the turmoil of England’s War of the Roses. Possessing unparalleled tactics; the House of Lancaster utilizes their thriving economy to acquire technological advances that were new to European knowledge at the time.

The House of Lancaster were key players in two of the most influential wars which shaped European medieval history; the War of the Roses and the Hundred Years War. The Lancasters forged a reputation for their incomparable ranged battlefield tactics and an unyielding support for the arts and sciences.

These historical influences inspired much of the gameplay you’ll see when playing the House of Lancaster in Knights of the Cross and Rose. The House of Lancaster comes armed with not only a powerful ability called Synchronized Shot – a wide-ranging volley shot – but they’re also bolstered by the Manor, a unique building which generates resources.

The House of Lancaster serve as a departure from their English-based civilization while still providing an intuitive playstyle which leans towards defensive strategies, allowing players to add a fresh take on play.

[h2]Historical Battles[/h2]

Live the legacy of these iconic armies in a new single-player action-packed game mode: Historical Battles – arriving with Knights of Cross and Rose on April 8th.

This new game mode deviates from the traditional narrative-focused campaign by focusing in on select moments in history that were pivotal for the Knights Templar and the House of Lancaster. With gameplay enriching cinematics and voice-acting, their standalone mission format allows real history to inspire a challenging set of objectives which put the power to defy history in your hands.

Players are scored and ranked by their performance through a medal system. As you strive for victory and a score you can take pride in, you’ll find secrets, traps, and more hidden in the maps, promoting exploration. The result is a gameplay experience that feels like a puzzle and allows for replayability as you search to discover every element that could ensure your victory and reach the top medal category. For those seeking a true challenge, unlock Conqueror mode based on decisions made during the mission.

Rally the Knights Templar and House of Lancaster in missions inspired by iconic historical confrontations. Lead the Knights Templar in the Battle of Montgisard as they stave off Saladin’s forces. Ensure the House of Lancaster’s survival against the Yorkists after a calamitous defeat at Towton.

[h2]New Maps[/h2]
The shape of the battlefield is a truly dynamic part of your campaign for victory. With Knights of Cross and Rose, we’re adding ten new maps. Here’s a preview:

[h3]Relic River[/h3]

[h3]Mountain Lakes[/h3]

[h3]Waterlanes[/h3]

[h3]Wasteland[/h3]

[h3]Shadow Lake[/h3]

[h3]Rugged[/h3]

[h3]Highwoods[/h3]

[h3]Hedgemaze[/h3]

[h3]Flankwoods[/h3]

[h3]Enlightened Horizon[/h3]

[h2]New Achievements[/h2]

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Knights of Cross and Rose is a labor of love from our team and explores gameplay in new and exciting ways.

We can’t wait to see how you make these new civilizations, maps and Historical Battles your own.

Pre-order today on Steam and get a 15% discount. Age of Empires IV – Knights of Cross and Rose is due out April 8th! The DLC is priced at $14.99 USD (please check your store of choice for your local pricing if you're outside of the USA), and get ready for more Age of Empires IV, with another DLC to come in 2025!

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[h2]Live the Legacy – Pre-Order Now![/h2]
https://store.steampowered.com/app/3144890
Pre-order today on Steam and get a 15% discount. Age of Empires IV – Knights of Cross and Rose is due out April 8th! The DLC is priced at $14.99 USD (please check your store of choice for your local pricing if you're outside of the USA).