Age of Empires 2 (AoE2) offers players a diverse range of civilizations, each bringing its distinct flavor to the battlefield. While the number of available civilizations has grown over the years due to expansions and updates, it’s crucial for players to understand the nuances of each.
The game isn’t just about raw power; it’s about leveraging the unique attributes, strengths, and technologies that a civilization offers, and doing so in a way that complements the map, opponents, and type of game you’re playing.
Criteria for Age of Empires 2 Tier Ranking
Before delving into the Age of Empires 2 tier list, it’s essential to clarify the considerations taken into account when ranking civilizations. Four main factors play a pivotal role:
- Economic Advantages: A strong economy can be a game-changer. Civilizations with faster resource gathering or other economic perks often have the upper hand, especially in longer games.
- Military Strengths: While a robust economy is vital, having superior military units or strategies can dominate the battlefield. This is particularly true for rush or early aggression tactics.
- Special Units and Technologies: Unique units or technologies can sometimes turn the tide of battle, offering specific counterplay opportunities or bolstering a civilization’s strength in a particular area.
- Versatility: A civilization’s ability to adapt to different maps, resources, and opponent strategies significantly impacts its effectiveness. Those that can thrive in a variety of situations usually fare better overall.
- Additionally, it’s worth noting that tier lists are fluid. Game updates, balance changes, or shifts in player strategies can prompt re-evaluation and changes.
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 gaming world is ever-evolving, and AoE2 is no exception. Several elements can influence civilization rankings:
Game Patches and Balance Updates: As developers make tweaks to maintain balance, some civilizations might rise in prominence, while others may falter.
Rise of New Strategies: As players innovate and devise new tactics, previously overlooked civilizations can suddenly become the flavor of the month.
Introduction of New Civilizations or Maps: New additions can shuffle the rankings, either because the new entrants are powerful or because they redefine the meta.
Tips for Choosing the Right Civilization In Age of Empires 2
Picking the right civilization isn’t just about selecting the most powerful one on the list. Here are some pointers to guide your choice:
Understand Your Play Style: If you prefer fast-paced aggression, a civilization tailored for rushing might be best. Conversely, if you’re about long-term strategy, consider groups with late-game strengths.
Adapt to the Map: Some civilizations perform better on water maps, while others might thrive in forested or open terrains. Familiarize yourself with the map’s resources and layout.
Anticipate Your Opponent: If you know your opponent’s likely civilization or strategy, you can pick a civilization that counters it effectively.
