The Age of Wonders 4 DLC, Empires & Ashes, adds an industrial twist to the fantasy 4X game, offering various enhancements. These include a new culture and form, an additional victory condition to strive for, and more exciting features. Scheduled for a November release alongside a free Age of Wonders 4 update, this expansion to the Paradox strategy game allows you to blend industry with magic or employ technological prowess to challenge the rule of wizard kings.
Age of Wonders 4 is a standout addition to Paradox’s impressive lineup of top-notch strategy games on PC, including titles like Crusader Kings 3, Cities Skylines 2, Europa Universalis 4, Victoria 3, Stellaris, and more. Its fantasy setting and well-executed gameplay have garnered critical acclaim. In our Age of Wonders 4 review, we described it as “a game you owe it to yourself to play,” whether you’re a newcomer to the genre or an experienced 4X gamer.
Now, set to launch in November, the Empires & Ashes expansion introduces the concept of “combining magic and steel with new techniques to create mighty war machines and lay waste to enemy cities.” It introduces the Reavers, a culture characterized by industrial strength, which has harnessed the power of magic to enhance its technology, leading to unprecedented strength and dominance achieved through conquests and raids.
Moreover, the expansion features a new Avian form for players to utilize, an ancient wonder, an infestation location, and new wildlife units and mounts, such as bears and scrap hermits. Two new story missions are included, along with another victory mechanic that involves seeking numerous Seals of Power to gain access to the Astral Sea. Control the realm for a sufficient duration, and victory is yours.
Arriving alongside the new DLC, the Age of Wonders 4 Golem Update is a substantial free update that brings various enhancements. This update includes an item forge for crafting new equipment for your heroes, 25 new in-game events, improved sailing mechanics, the ability to give specific orders to your vassals during wartime, and a revamped spell book interface.
The release date for Age of Wonders 4: Empires & Ashes is set for Tuesday, November 7, 2023, with a price tag of $19.99 / £16.99. It’s also included for players who have purchased the base game’s premium edition or the expansion pass. Further details can be found on the official Steam store page.
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