Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition

Players experience frustration primarily due to persistent technical issues, such as frequent crashes, server instability, and corrupted save files, which disrupt gameplay and waste time. Additionally, the game's high difficulty, unbalanced AI behavior, intrusive DLC monetization, and poor matchmaking exacerbate the negative experience, making progression feel unfair or unrewarding.

Disappointment stems from unmet expectations regarding the game's quality, innovation, and developer support. Players criticize the lackluster campaign design, outdated mechanics, and technical flaws like crashes and poor optimization. The game's focus on monetization through DLCs, perceived neglect of community feedback, and failure to address long-standing issues (e.g., cheating, balance problems) further contribute to this sentiment.

Players express satisfaction with the game's refined mechanics, engaging campaigns, and modernized gameplay that retains the franchise's classic charm. Improvements in multiplayer balance, pathfinding, and faction variety, along with post-launch updates and developer support, enhance the overall experience and replayability.

Excitement is driven by the game's immersive gameplay, strategic depth, and high-quality production values, including dynamic faction playstyles and epic battle moments. Players appreciate the fresh mechanics, competitive depth, and anticipation for future expansions, which revitalize the RTS genre for both newcomers and veterans.

Nostalgia is evoked by the game's ability to recapture the essence of classic Age of Empires titles, resonating with players who grew up with the series. The soundtrack, gameplay mechanics, and historical themes trigger fond memories, creating an emotional connection to the franchise's legacy.