In Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, trade markets allow players to exchange resources with a fixed conversion rate. Players can generate gold by setting up trade routes between their markets and allies'. The farther the distance, the more profitable the trade route becomes, rewarding strategic location placement.
Introduction
In Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, trade markets play a crucial role in the economic aspect of the game. They facilitate the exchange of resources between players and are essential for boosting the overall economy of a player's civilization. Understanding how trade markets function in the game is vital for players looking to maximize their economic efficiency and gain a strategic advantage over their opponents.
Establishing Trade Routes
Trade markets are used to establish trade routes between players' markets. Players can build multiple trade markets within their own territory and then create trade carts, which will automatically travel back and forth between the different markets along the established trade route. This allows players to generate a steady stream of gold income, which can be used to fund military campaigns, research technologies, or build structures.
Resource Exchange
Trade markets enable players to exchange resources for gold. Different resources have varying values in terms of gold, with rare or scarce resources such as gold or stone being more valuable than abundant resources like wood or food. By trading surplus resources for gold at the trade market, players can obtain the necessary funds to purchase resources they may be lacking, thereby balancing their economy and ensuring a steady supply of all resources.
Market Prices
The value of resources at the trade markets fluctuates based on supply and demand. If a particular resource is in high demand but low supply, its price at the trade market will increase, incentivizing players to sell that resource for a higher profit. Conversely, if a resource is abundant and not in high demand, its price will decrease, making it more feasible for players to buy that resource instead. Understanding these market dynamics is essential for maximizing profits and making strategic decisions.
Trade Units
In addition to trade carts, players can also utilize trade cogs in naval maps to establish sea trade routes. Trade cogs function similarly to trade carts but operate on water, allowing players to conduct trade exchanges across bodies of water and expand their trade networks beyond land-based routes. Utilizing both trade carts and trade cogs effectively can significantly increase a player's gold income and provide strategic advantages in the game.
Protecting Trade Routes
One of the key considerations when using trade markets is ensuring the safety of trade routes. Trade carts and trade cogs are vulnerable to enemy attacks, and losing them can disrupt a player's economy significantly. Players must prioritize protecting their trade routes by escorting trade units with military forces, establishing defensive structures along the trade route, or scouting for enemy threats to preemptively counter any attacks. Securing trade routes is crucial for maintaining a stable economy and preventing economic setbacks.
Trading with Allies
Players can also establish trade routes with their allies in team games. Trading with allies provides mutual benefits by generating gold income for both players involved in the trade route. This collaboration can strengthen alliances, foster cooperation between team members, and enhance the overall economic stability of the team. Coordinating trade routes with allies can contribute to a team's success and strategic gameplay in multiplayer matches.
Strategic Considerations
Strategic utilization of trade markets can have a significant impact on a player's overall success in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. Players must carefully plan their trade routes, monitor market prices, and protect their trade units to ensure a steady flow of gold income and resources. Adapting to changing market conditions, forming alliances with other players, and incorporating trade routes into broader strategic plans are essential elements for mastering the economic aspect of the game and achieving victory.