Age of Empires IV is not a free-to-play game — the modern mainline RTS from Relic Entertainment and World’s Edge originally launched at $59.99, though it’s now frequently found much cheaper. There’s no official free full download — this guide covers the legitimate steps to get it, requirements, and honest pros and cons.
How to Get Age of Empires IV (Official Steps)
- Open Steam or the Microsoft Store and search “Age of Empires IV”.
- Confirm the listing is published by Xbox Game Studios, developed by Relic Entertainment.
- Click Add to Cart, complete checkout, and it downloads to your library.
- Alternatively, open the Xbox app if you’re a PC Game Pass subscriber and install instead of paying.
- Launch it, choose a campaign or civilization, and start building your empire in fully 3D visuals.
Ways to Get It for Free or Cheap
- PC Game Pass: Age of Empires IV has been included in Microsoft’s PC Game Pass library, making it playable at no extra cost for subscribers.
- Steam sales: Frequently discounted 77% or more during Steam seasonal sale events.
- Anniversary Edition: Bundles in additional civilizations and content at a reduced combined price versus buying separately.
System Requirements for Age of Empires IV
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 (64-bit) | Windows 10/11 (64-bit) |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-6300U / AMD equivalent | Intel Core i5 or better |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| GPU | Intel HD 520 / Nvidia GTX discrete GPU | GTX 1060 or better |
| Storage | ~50 GB free space | SSD recommended |
Pros and Cons of Age of Empires IV
✅ Pros
- Modern 3D visuals and 4 detailed historical campaigns spanning 35 missions
- Free with Xbox Game Pass for PC subscribers
- Accessible tutorial system welcoming to newcomers
- Frequently discounted heavily
❌ Cons
- Smaller civilization roster at launch compared to AoE II, though expanded via DLC since
- Some longtime fans felt it played more conservatively than II or III
- DLC civilization packs add extra cost for the full roster
Availability by Platform
🖥️ PC
Buy once on Steam or the Microsoft Store, or free with Xbox Game Pass for PC.
Who Should — and Shouldn’t — Play Age of Empires IV
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Age of Empires IV free to download?
No, it’s a paid game, though Xbox Game Pass subscribers can play it without an extra purchase.
Is it safe to download from third-party “free download” sites?
No, only buy through Steam, the Microsoft Store, or the Xbox/PC Game Pass app.
Is it on PC Game Pass?
Yes, it has been included in the PC Game Pass library — check current availability.
How many campaigns does it include?
Four distinct historical campaigns spanning 35 missions are included in the base game.
Does it have new civilizations via DLC?
Yes, expansions like Sultans Ascend, Ottomans, and Malians have added new civilizations as paid DLC.
This page is written for informational purposes to help you find the official, safe way to play Age of Empires IV. It does not link to or endorse any unofficial “free download” sources.
