AOE IV / Maps
African Waters
Players must contest space and resources from the start.
Overview
Players must contest space and resources from the start.
Terrain and layout
Players begin close together in a central valley between two elevated ridges on opposite map edges. Lakes occupy the other two edges, creating a hybrid layout with short early attack distances.
Resources and control
The ridges hold large Gold and Stone deposits, Boars, and half the fixed Relic count. Lakes contain multiple Deep Water Fish per player plus Shore Fish. Food is plentiful between the players; two Sacred Sites and two Trade Posts occupy opposite corners.
Player considerations
Expect early pressure because starting positions are close and contested food lies between them. The ridges are valuable but require movement away from the center; use the lakes for fishing while securing naval cover and watch both ridge approaches.
