Age of Empires IV – The Sultans Ascend DLC (PC) Steam Key is a spectacular expansion to one of the most popular real-time strategy games that puts players right in the middle of the epic Middle East struggles during the Crusades. This expanded expansion introduces an all-new story campaign, two fresh civilizations – the Japanese and the Byzantines – as well as four modified variations of familiar factions, ten new maps, and improved gameplay mechanics. "The Sultans Rise" is a tribute to courage, strategy and the spirit of survival at a time when East and West collided in a war for faith and power. Epic Sultans Rise Campaign At the heart of the expansion is an all-new, immersive single-player campaign – "The Sultans Ascend" – consisting of eight varied missions. The player moves to the time of the Crusades, where he takes on the role of a commander of the Muslim resistance fighting against Christian orders of chivalry: the Templars, the Hospitallers and the Teutonic Order. The campaign depicts the dramatic struggle for survival, rebirth and unity of the Islamic world in the face of invasion from the West. For the first time in the history of Age of Empires IV, the campaign includes gameplay at sea, with players able to wage naval battles using new units and tactics, combining fleet operations with land operations. This new strategic dimension adds depth, dynamism, and realism to any skirmish. Throughout the campaign, players will take on the role of legendary Muslim leaders and warriors who changed the fate of the Middle East. Eight chapters present the story of such figures as: Tughtekin – a commander who started the organization of resistance against the Crusaders in Syria, Nur ad-Din – a sultan who sought to unite Muslims against the occupiers, Shirkuh and Saladin – an uncle and nephew who played a key role in the recapture of Jerusalem, Kutuz and Baibars – Egyptian chieftains who stopped the Mongols, Shajar ad-Durra – an extraordinary woman who took power after the death of her husband, becoming one of the first sultans, Barsbai – the ruler of the Mamluks, who provided Egypt with a golden age of power. Each mission presents a unique challenge, combining complex tactics with authentic historical events, while realistic narration and full sound give the campaign a cinematic feel. New Civilizations Japanese For the first time in the history of the Age of Empires series, players can lead the Japanese Empire. This civilization combines military discipline with excellent economic organization. The Japanese have powerful samurai who become almost unstoppable in hand-to-hand combat, as well as extremely effective archery units and cavalry. Their economy is based on the efficient use of resources and a system of feudal dependencies that allows for rapid development. Players can build Shinto temples, boosting the spirituality and morale of the army, as well as take advantage of unique bonuses related to the development of technology and architecture. The Japanese are a civilization ideal for strategists who value precision, harmony, and the power of military craftsmanship. The Byzantines Heirs of the Roman Empire return as a civilization based on sustainable defense and advanced technology. Biza