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How to Pre-load Age of Empires IV

We've waited Ages for this! Here's the scoop on how to get in-game while your friends are still downloading.

After 16 years, the next installment in the Age of Empires franchise is here. We're here to make sure that on launch day, you don't have to wait a second longer than you have to to start your Middle Age conquest.

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If you're looking to pre-load Age of Empires IV, the first step is to pre-order the game through one of the platforms where it is set to release: Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Microsoft Store. Once you've preordered the game, the next steps will be based on what platform you are using.

Steam

Once you pre-order, you will be able to see the game in your Steam library, but you won't be able to access it. Once the release date gets closer, you can open Age Of Empires IV in your Steam library and instead of the "Install" button, you will find an option to pre-load the game.

Related: What is the Age of Empires 4 Release Date?

Xbox Game Pass/Microsoft Store

On Game Pass, go to the Microsoft Store. Then search for Age of Empires IV, and on the game's page you will find an option to install. Click the Install button and the game should be ready to play at launch.

To buy the game, this is the same page you will go if you are not a Game Pass subscriber. If you are a member of Game Pass, you will simply click the install button (this will not purchase the game) and if you are not, you will use the menu options below to purchase, and then you will be given access to install.

There is no news on when exactly the player will have the opportunity to begin their pre-load of Age of Empires IV, but these steps will keep your download finger ready once that time does come.

Looking to scratch that RTS Itch while you wait? Check out the best RTS games on PC on Pro Game Guides


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Daniel Dix
Hello Internet Friends! I am Daniel, Lover of the visual arts. From TV to Video Games, if its on a screen, I know about it and I want you to as well! In addition to writing for ProGameGuides, I am a semi-competive TeamFight Tactics player peaking at top 500 North America. I stream on Twitch.tv under TheGr3ml1n. Some of my favorite games of all time are: Persona 5 (and Royal), God of War (2018), The Last of Us (1 & 2), Journey, and Shadow of The Colossus.