Axes Over the Fjords: Vikings and Scots Invade Age IV
Gaming1 views2026-07-31
Age of Empires IV is expanding northward with Raiders of the North, a new expansion scheduled to launch in fall 2026 with two playable civilizations: the Vikings and the Scots.
The Vikings are designed around fast melee infantry, naval strength, early religious development and a Longhouse that plays a central role in their economy. Players can complete Sagas to earn lasting bonuses and establish Sacred Groves on Relic sites to strengthen nearby forces.
Their military roster includes the Bondi, a stronger replacement for the traditional Spearman that can form a defensive shield wall when fighting alongside other Bondi units.
The Hirdman replaces the Man-at-Arms as a faster and more resilient frontline warrior, while the Berserker can enter a frenzied state and rapidly pressure enemy settlements, resource lines and vulnerable workers.
The Scots follow a more defensive and ambush-focused strategy. Their infantry can detect enemies inside stealth forests and launch powerful surprise attacks against forces moving through rugged terrain.
Scottish players can use the Mustering Hall to recruit discounted units such as the heavily armed Gallowglass and the mobile Border Reivers. Gallowglass warriors can fight alongside Scottish Pikes and Lochaber Axes to create a powerful schiltron capable of stopping cavalry charges.
Highland Cattle provide the Scots with a renewable food option by consuming berry bushes, while Tower Houses offer vision and protection against enemy raids. An attached barmkin can provide additional safety for valuable livestock.
Raiders of the North also expands The Crucible with four new missions, additional boons, a new challenge mode and two-player cooperative play. Two new biomes will provide fresh environments for both historical battles and multiplayer encounters.
The expansion will be available through Steam, Microsoft Store and Xbox, with a PlayStation 5 version planned for release on launch day. An exact release date has not yet been announced.
The Vikings are designed around fast melee infantry, naval strength, early religious development and a Longhouse that plays a central role in their economy. Players can complete Sagas to earn lasting bonuses and establish Sacred Groves on Relic sites to strengthen nearby forces.
Their military roster includes the Bondi, a stronger replacement for the traditional Spearman that can form a defensive shield wall when fighting alongside other Bondi units.
The Hirdman replaces the Man-at-Arms as a faster and more resilient frontline warrior, while the Berserker can enter a frenzied state and rapidly pressure enemy settlements, resource lines and vulnerable workers.
The Scots follow a more defensive and ambush-focused strategy. Their infantry can detect enemies inside stealth forests and launch powerful surprise attacks against forces moving through rugged terrain.
Scottish players can use the Mustering Hall to recruit discounted units such as the heavily armed Gallowglass and the mobile Border Reivers. Gallowglass warriors can fight alongside Scottish Pikes and Lochaber Axes to create a powerful schiltron capable of stopping cavalry charges.
Highland Cattle provide the Scots with a renewable food option by consuming berry bushes, while Tower Houses offer vision and protection against enemy raids. An attached barmkin can provide additional safety for valuable livestock.
Raiders of the North also expands The Crucible with four new missions, additional boons, a new challenge mode and two-player cooperative play. Two new biomes will provide fresh environments for both historical battles and multiplayer encounters.
The expansion will be available through Steam, Microsoft Store and Xbox, with a PlayStation 5 version planned for release on launch day. An exact release date has not yet been announced.