Age of Empires 2 has been a titan in the RTS scene for decades, and with new expansions dropping even to this day, you’ve got a massive roster of civilizations to choose from. Sure, each civ has its own quirky perks and playstyle, but what really sets them apart in the heat of battle? That’s where this tier list comes into play. We’re diving deep into which civs crank out wins and which ones might need a little extra hustle to shine.
Why Your Civilization Choice Matters
You might think it’s all about raw power who hits hardest, who booms the fastest but AoE2 is all about synergy. It’s how well your chosen civ’s quirks, unique units, and tech bonuses mesh with the map, your enemy’s civ, and your personal playstyle. If you’ve ever been steamrolled by an early rush you never saw coming, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
Criteria for Age of Empires 2 Tier Ranking
Our tier list is built around four major factors. While there are always new strategies popping up, these fundamentals help us figure out who’s king of the battlefield:
- Economic Advantages
A rock-solid economy can catapult you from the Dark Age into the Imperial Age before your opponents know what hit them. Civs that rake in resources faster or get special eco upgrades often land near the top. - Military Strengths
You can’t just gather resources forever you’ve got to spend ‘em on an army that can get the job done. Whether it’s OP unique units or clever early aggression, civs with a beefy military presence dominate the meta. - Special Units and Technologies
AoE2 is loaded with signature units and techs that can completely flip a match. Some civs lean hard on these unique options to counter opponents or secure a crushing advantage when timed right. - Versatility
How well can your civ adapt when you go from a map with endless forests to a water-heavy battleground? Civs that can shift gears and excel in multiple scenarios typically rank higher flexibility is everything.
Remember, nothing is set in stone. Balance patches, new civ releases, and fresh tactics from the community can shuffle these rankings faster than you can say “Heresy!”
Age of Empires 2 Tier List
Civilizations | Tier Rating | Special Units |
---|---|---|
Mongols | S | Mangudai |
Portuguese | S | Organ Gun |
Malay | S | Karambit Warrior |
Aztecs | A | Jaguar Warrior |
Indians | A | Imperial Camel Rider |
Mayans | A | Plumed Archer |
Incas | A | Kamayuk |
Italians | A | Genoese Crossbowman |
Vietnamese | A | Rattan Archer |
Khmer | A | Ballista Elephant |
Britons | B | Longbowman |
Chinese | B | Chu Ko Nu |
Franks | B | Throwing Axeman |
Lithuanians | B | Leitis |
Poles | B | Obuch |
Japanese | B | Samurai |
Byzantines | B | Cataphract |
Saracens | B | Mameluke |
Koreans | B | Turtle Ship |
Malians | B | Gbeto |
Ethiopians | B | Shotel Warrior |
Dravidians | B | Urumi Swordsman, Thirisadai |
Turks | B | Janissary |
Burgundians | B | Coustillier |
Vikings | C | Berserk Longboat |
Persians | C | War Elephant |
Berbers | C | Genitour |
Huns | C | Tarkan |
Spanish | C | Conquistador, Missionary |
Magyars | C | Magyar Huszar |
Bohemians | C | Houfnice |
Bulgarians | C | Konnik |
Gurjaras | C | Chakram Thrower, Shrivamsha |
Bengalis | C | Ratha |
Goths | C | Huskarl |
Teutons | C | Teutonic Knight |
Burmese | C | Arambai |
Cumans | C | Kipchak |
Slavs | C | Boyar |
Tartars | C | Keshik |
Sicilians | D | Serjeant |
Celts | D | Woad Raider |
Factors that can Change Age of Empires 2 Tier Rankings
The AoE2 meta isn’t static. These factors might cause your favorite civ to skyrocket or tank in the tier list:
- Game Patches and Balance Tweaks: Whenever the devs step in to level the playing field, certain civs might lose their crown while others finally get their moment in the sun.
- Evolving Player Strategies: You’d be shocked how a single new build order or trick can catapult a lesser-used civ into competitive relevance.
- Fresh Civilizations or Maps: Sometimes a brand-new civ drops like a meteor and reshapes the meta, or a newly added map plays to the strengths of an overlooked civilization.
Tips for Choosing the Right Civilization In Age of Empires 2
At the end of the day, the “best” civ is the one that jives with your playstyle and the match conditions. Here’s how to nail your pick:
- Know Your Game Plan: Do you rush early and pressure your foes, or turtle up and unleash mayhem in the Imperial Age? Pick the civ that boosts your favorite approach.
- Scout the Map: Water-heavy map? Stick with civs that dominate the seas. Dense forests? Maybe go with a civ that can sneak in some walls and defensive plays.
- Counter Your Opponent: If your rival’s known for a cavalry spam, a strong anti-cavalry civ can flip the script. Always anticipate how to neutralize their main threats.