Age of Empires IV: Knights of Cross and Rose Expansion Announced!
Age of Empires IV is getting a new expansion pack! Titled “Knights of Cross and Rose,” this DLC promises fresh content for both single-player and multiplayer fans. While a release date hasn’t been revealed yet, the expansion introduces two exciting new variant civilizations and other engaging features.
# New Variant Civilizations: Templar Knights & House of Lancaster
“Knights of Cross and Rose” centers around the Templar Knights and the House of Lancaster. These variant civilizations will be based on the French and English, respectively. Similar to how the Order of the Dragon is derived from the Holy Roman Empire, these factions will boast unique units and playstyles. The House of Lancaster, for example, will emphasize advanced economics, technology, and specialized ranged combat strategies.
# Building on Past Success
Age of Empires IV experienced a resurgence with its first expansion, “The Sultans Ascend,” released on November 14, 2023. Xbox hopes to replicate this success with “Knights of Cross and Rose.” However, it’s important to note that this DLC is smaller in scope than “The Sultans Ascend,” which included two entirely new civilizations (Byzantines and Japanese) and four variant civilizations. “Knights of Cross and Rose” focuses on offering distinct variations of existing French and English civilizations.
The Age of Empires IV team has addressed this, emphasizing that they’ve taken player feedback into account and treated these variant civilizations almost like entirely new factions. They aim to deliver a more unique experience than previous variant civilizations like the Ayyubids, Jeanne d’Arc, Order of the Dragon, and Zhu Xi’s Legacy, through the introduction of new mechanics.
# New Maps and Historical Battles Await
The “Knights of Cross and Rose” expansion also includes 10 new maps for both single-player and multiplayer modes. These maps are designed to enrich gameplay and offer diverse strategic challenges. A new single-player mode called “Historical Battles” is also being introduced.
Instead of traditional campaign missions, the expansion adapts a “Historical Battles” system. These independent missions focus on key historical moments involving the Templar Knights and the House of Lancaster. Like the campaign, these battles will feature cinematics and voice acting, but aim to provide a unique challenge. For example, players can attempt to alter history by achieving victory in the Siege of Safed, a historical defeat for the Templar Knights.
This mode emphasizes exploration and offers players multiple strategic options. The team aims to increase replayability with a medal system that scores and ranks player performance.
# Age of Empires IV Expansion: More Details Coming Soon
These are the initial details about the upcoming “Knights of Cross and Rose” DLC for Age of Empires IV. While a release date and price are yet to be announced, it’s expected to include language support.