It’s imperative that players understand how a civilization operates inAge of Empires 4before committing to it in a match. The Chinese civilization represents one of eight available factions players may control inAge of Empires 4. As far as the difficulty curve is concerned, playing as the Chinese is a bit more involved compared to other cultures.
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Nevertheless, even though it may take a little practice, playing as the Chinese civilization can be immensely rewarding. With a plethora of directions in which to lead this faction, fans don’t lack optionswhen it comes to gameplay strategies. Knowing what makes this faction unique is certainly crucial information.
An Overview Of The Chinese Civilization
The Chinese are one of the most adaptable factions in the game. Their unique Dynasty system offers a range of benefits for a variety of tactical situations. Furthermore, Chinese Villagers can construct buildings and defenses much faster than their rivals, which offers a key advantage for aggressive players.
The hallmark of the Chinese military is their expert use of gunpowder. Various units and structures can employ this deadly mixture to great effect. Unique units such as the Imperial Official can be put to work to acquire extra Gold for the player’s coffers. By the late game, the Chinese are difficult opponents to defeat.
Chinese Civilization Bonuses
Similar to their rival civilizations, the Chinese possess their own set of faction bonuses. These Civilization Bonuses include:
The most significant takeaway from these bonuses concerns the Villagers. Being able to outbuild one’s foes is invaluable,especially in regards to defense. Rushing the Chinese early can be a difficult prospect as a result. The bonus attributed to Docks can also come in handy on maps that feature plenty of water.
Unique Chinese Units
ThePalace Guardis a unique, improved variant of the generic Man-at-Arms. Palace Guardsmen inflict decent damage and are a bit faster than their standard cousins. TheZhuge Nuare expert Crossbowmen, capable of firing a burst of lethal bolts in quick succession.
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Grenadierslob theirhandheld payloads at their enemies, causing a fair bit of destruction.Fire Lancersare light cavalry that makes use of a devastating charge bonus. TheNest of Beesis a siege unit that incorporates impressive rocket artillery, useful against foes clumped too close together. Finally, theImperial Officalcollects taxes from surrounding buildings, resulting in extra Gold income. They can also supervise a particular resource building to increase its efficiency.
Unique Chinese Technologies & Abilities
Imperial Examinationsincrease the amount of Goldcarried by Imperial Officialsfrom+20 to +40. TheBattle Hardenedupgrade increases thehealth of Palace Guards by +30.Reload Drillsreduces thereload time of Bombards by -33%.Reusable Barrelsreduces thecost of Nest of Bees by -25%.
Pyrotechnicsincreases therange of gunpowder units by +20%.Ancient Techniquesincreases thegathering rate of Villagers by +5%for each dynasty achieved. WithExtra Materials, Stone Wall Towers and Outpostsrepair nearby damaged Stone Walls. A single section is repaired at a time for+20 health per second.
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Chinese Naval Advantages
Chinese ships are just as dangerous in the use of gunpowder as their troops on land. SinceChinese Docks have an increased production speedcompared to other factions, recruiting aformidable navy in a short span of time is possible. With theExtra Hammocksupgrade, Junks of the Archer Ship typegain additional crew, allowing them tofire two more arrows in each volley.
Chinese Landmarks
Chinese Dynasties
The Chinese civilization is composed of four dynasties, which include theTang,Song,Yuan, andMing. Each dynasty is composed of its own set of benefits. Thus, depending on one’s playstyle, fans can decide whether or not it’s worth advancing to the next dynasty. Playersadvance to the next dynastyby buildingbothLandmarks in an Age. The bonuses of each dynasty are:
Tips For Playing As The Chinese
The Chinese are an advanced civilization suitable for more experienced players. Understanding the dynasties and their benefits is the key to success when playing as the Chinese. Fans don’t necessarily have to unlock every one of them. Stick with the dynasty that suits your playstyle the most to reap the maximum benefit.
Players shouldn’t skimp on producing Imperial Officials. The amount of Gold that can be made from tax collection is too good to ignore. Bigger cities mean greater revenue. Since Chinese Villagers construct buildings at a faster clip, rapid expansion is encouraged. Regarding the military, Fire Lancers and Grenadiers can make short work of enemy formations if properly supported by a balanced army.
Age of Empires 4was released on Jul 08, 2025 and is currently available on PC.
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