AOE IV / Game Systems
Resources
Food, wood, gold and stone are the main resources used to train units, construct buildings, research technologies and advance through the ages. Some…
Overview
Food, wood, gold and stone are the main resources used to train units, construct buildings, research technologies and advance through the ages. Some civilizations add distinct resources or production systems.
Use in play
Scout resource locations early and protect the gathering routes that support your current production plan.
Gathering and spending
Food supports Villager and many unit queues; Wood funds buildings, ranged units and siege; Gold commonly pays for advanced units and research; Stone is used for fortifications and civilization-specific systems. Exact costs vary by unit and civilization, so use the article cost tables when choosing between an age-up, production and an army response.
Distinctive resources
Some civilizations add a separate economy such as Olive Oil, Silver, Bounty or Vizier Points. These do not replace the four common resources in every purchase: each has its own source and use. Follow the civilization page to see how its special economy connects to units, buildings and progression.
