This is a stunning 4X game that Civilization fans will most likely adore.
Age of Wonders at its core is a 4X strategy game, analogous to titles like Civilization.
This review was conducted on Xbox Series X, using a code provided by Paradox.
Age of Wonders 4 is, indeed, pretty triumphant.
It’s difficult to overlook the comparisons to Civilization, because it does sport many of the same ideas.
It’s hexagonal grid serves as the game’s primary overlay for developing your empire.
It delivers that RPG-style fantasy incredibly well as a result.
I barely dabbled with the other gameplay styles as of writing, but faced many of them in combat.
you could set your towns and cities to automatically develop and expand, based on criteria you set.
you’re free to also, of course, take control at any time you so desire.
Auto-battle made me realize how important buffs and debuffs are in combat, for example.
Empowered armies through spell enchantments become incredibly dangerous.
Everything costs resources, of course.
Much like Civ, Age of Wonders also allows for various types of victory conditions.
Whichever victory condition you pursue, the path toward that goal is incredibly rewarding.
The volume of unique biomes, locations, and randomized events keeps the game from feeling repetitive.
The game comes with a “performance mode” and “resolution mode” presets.
However, you will tank the frame rate for the privilege.
To make matters worse, the “performance mode” is only performant for the early to mid-game.
Either way, Age of Wonders 4 doesn’t run particularly well on it.
Another gripe I have is with the gamepad controls.
They’re by no means awful, but the cursor snapping could be a little clearer.
The combat menu is also a little unclear at times.
The UI often suffers from a lack of information.
Age of Wonders 4 Review: Should you buy?
