Yes, gameplay>graphics. But why not have both? Or at least have decent/good graphics? Sadly, AoE4 really disappoints me in terms of art direction and graphics. E.g. have a look at the recent gameplay trailer, particularly the water: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSdbdEdxQr8
- the water looks flat and uninspired
- the units look cartoonish and like colorful blobs with their huge player color pieces
The buildings and land terrain look okay, but nothing special at all. Overall, the game doesn't look like 2021. Arguably, AoE2DE and AoE3DE look better in many regards: AoE3 has better water, AoE2 has more realistic units/buildings and clear lines.
Sure, AoE4 might have more detailed textures in some regards, but overall the game just looks like a big let down to me. "Readability" is not an argument for me, AoE2 is fine in that regard and looks a lot more realistic, less cartoony, less exaggerated dimensions and features, less huge player color accessories.
- the water looks flat and uninspired
- the units look cartoonish and like colorful blobs with their huge player color pieces
The buildings and land terrain look okay, but nothing special at all. Overall, the game doesn't look like 2021. Arguably, AoE2DE and AoE3DE look better in many regards: AoE3 has better water, AoE2 has more realistic units/buildings and clear lines.
Sure, AoE4 might have more detailed textures in some regards, but overall the game just looks like a big let down to me. "Readability" is not an argument for me, AoE2 is fine in that regard and looks a lot more realistic, less cartoony, less exaggerated dimensions and features, less huge player color accessories.