Very Positive(82%)
customization options
tactical combat
visual design
replayability
strategic depth
faction balance
game complexity
story depth
high DLC cost
technical issues
AI unfairness
game crashes
Overall, the sentiment towards Age of Wonders 4 is largely positive due to its extensive customization options and strategic depth, attracting players who enjoy both fantasy and strategy games. However, there is significant criticism directed towards the game's DLC model and its technical stability, which challenges the overall experience. Players express their appreciation for the replayability and faction creation while also noting the toll this takes in terms of potential complexity and lack of distinct gameplay variations across different factions. Despite these flaws, the game's engaging combat and visual design keep players invested.
Positive Points
Many players find the wide variety of customization options a highlight, allowing them to create unique factions, races, and heroes with diverse abilities and traits.The game's tactical combat system is praised for its depth and strategic elements, providing a dynamic experience that rewards thoughtful planning and execution.The game successfully combines elements from other popular titles like Civilization and Heroes of Might and Magic, creating a unique blend of strategic empire building and fantasy storytelling.Replayability is a strong point, with the game offering different playthroughs and outcomes based on players' choices in faction creation and strategy.The visual design and art direction have been frequently mentioned as outstanding, with vibrant and detailed graphics enhancing the immersive experience.Negative Points
Many reviewers criticize the game's business model, highlighting the high cost and frequent release of DLCs, which they feel locks much content behind paywalls.Technical issues are a common complaint, with players reporting frequent crashes, multiplayer desyncs, and poor optimization even on high-end systems.The AI is often described as having unfair advantages, such as spawning units unexpectedly, which detracts from the enjoyment of the strategic challenge.Some players feel that despite the customization, the factions can feel too similar in gameplay, lacking distinct identities or significant variations.Mixed Points
While there is a high degree of customization, some players feel overwhelmed by the choices, especially as the balance between different options can be unclear or lead to non-optimal strategies.The game's lore and storytelling elements receive mixed reviews; some players appreciate the freedom to create their own narratives, while others find the main story lacking depth.Common Themes
Customization and replayability are major themes, with players enjoying the ability to craft unique experiences through diverse faction and gameplay choices.Critiques often focus on the high cost and implementation of DLCs, suggesting it affects the game's accessibility and completeness.Technical issues, such as crashes and multiplayer instability, are recurring points of frustration for many players.The game's balance between accessibility and depth is debated, with some players finding it too complex initially, while others appreciate the learning curve and strategic depth.Updated 11/18/2025, 12:01:42 AM UTC