Dawn of Ages, developed by Stratosphere Games and published by BoomBit, officially launched on April 28, 2025, for Steam and Epic Games Store, bringing its unique brand of historically grounded medieval strategy to a broader audience. Unlike many strategy games that lean into fantasy, Dawn of Ages is committed to authenticity-eschewing dragons and magic for a focus on real historical empires, weapons, and tactics. This approach sets the stage for a game that challenges players to think and act like true medieval commanders, building empires and leading armies in battles that echo the conflicts of the past.
Authenticity at the Core: Realism Over Fantasy
Dawn of Ages stands out for its dedication to historical accuracy. Every weapon, piece of armor, and battlefield tactic is based on meticulous research, making the game a treat for fans of history and strategy alike. Players can choose from four initial nations-Teutons, Franks, Anglo-Saxons, and Vikings-each with unique commanders and playstyles, with more civilizations, such as Spain and the Mongol Empire, unlockable through gameplay and special events.
The game’s arsenal is impressive, featuring over 100 unique historical weapons, shields, and armor. Each piece of equipment offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, encouraging players to experiment with different combinations to optimize their armies for specific situations. For example, heavy shields provide increased resistance and damage reduction, while specialized weapons like the Cutlass Sword or Bardiche poleaxe can turn the tide in close combat.
Epic Battles and Tactical Depth
Battles in Dawn of Ages are large-scale and brutal, with a focus on real historical tactics rather than fantasy spectacle. Players must carefully position their squads, select appropriate gear, and use the game’s “Damage Matrix” to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their troops against various enemy types. The matrix breaks down damage types-Slash, Thrust, and Blunt-and helps in forming effective strategies before each battle.
The auto-chess style of combat allows for fast-paced yet strategic encounters. Players can arrange formations, assign targets, and time their commander’s special abilities to maximize impact. The addition of Tacticards-offensive, defensive, or utility cards that can shift the balance of a fight-adds another layer of tactical decision-making.
City Building and Empire Management
Beyond the battlefield, Dawn of Ages offers a robust city-building experience. Starting from a humble village, players can expand their settlements into fortified castles, recruiting townsmen to staff buildings like the Town Hall, Market, Forge, and Barracks. Each structure can be upgraded, increasing resource production and military capabilities.
The progression system is chapter-based, with each chapter representing a historical era and containing multiple stages. Victories yield rewards such as coins, gems, and battle pass XP, which are essential for further development and unlocking new content.
Customization and Upgrades
One of the game’s highlights is its deep customization options. Players can loot and equip a vast array of historically accurate gear, each with unique stats and effects. Upgrading weapons and armor at the local forge enhances their effectiveness, allowing for specialized builds that cater to different strategies. For instance, focusing on shield units can grant significant defensive bonuses, while investing in two-handed weapons can boost offensive capabilities.
The game also introduces a formation system, enabling players to save multiple squad setups for different scenarios. This flexibility is especially valuable in PvP battles, where adapting to opponents’ strategies is key to climbing the global leaderboard.
Cross-Platform Play and Accessibility
Dawn of Ages features full cross-platform support, allowing players to seamlessly continue their progress across PC (Steam and Epic Games Store) and mobile devices (iOS and Android). This functionality breaks down barriers between platforms, enabling friends and rivals to compete regardless of their preferred device. The game is free-to-play, with a fair monetization model that does not pressure players to spend money to enjoy the core experience.
Personal Experience: Strengths and Shortcomings
From my perspective, Dawn of Ages excels as a mobile strategy game. The gameplay loop-combining city-building, army management, and tactical battles-is engaging and well-suited for play on the go. The free-to-play model feels fair, allowing players to progress and enjoy the game without feeling compelled to make purchases.
However, the transition to PC leaves room for improvement. The graphics, while functional, do not seem fully optimized for larger screens, lacking the refinement and visual polish expected from modern PC titles. Customization options for units and player appearance, though extensive in terms of equipment, fall short when it comes to visual differentiation between squads and commanders. This can make battles feel less personal and immersive compared to other strategy games that offer more robust visual customization.
One of the most commendable aspects is the game’s commitment to historical realism. The absence of fantasy elements like magic or mythical creatures allows for a more grounded and intellectually stimulating experience. For players seeking a strategy game that emphasizes authentic medieval warfare and resource management, Dawn of Ages delivers a satisfying journey.
Conclusion
Dawn of Ages is a compelling entry in the strategy genre, offering a blend of authentic medieval warfare, deep tactical gameplay, and city-building mechanics. Its commitment to historical accuracy sets it apart from competitors, providing a refreshing alternative to fantasy-based strategy games. While the PC version could benefit from graphical enhancements and more robust customization features, the game remains a strong choice for strategy enthusiasts-especially those who appreciate fair free-to-play models and cross-platform accessibility.
Whether you’re a hardcore strategist or a newcomer looking to pass the time with a challenging and rewarding game, Dawn of Ages is well worth exploring. Its depth, ambition, and ongoing development promise a bright future for both the game and its growing community.