How to Start Underground in Age of Wonders 4

Age of Wonders 4 is an exciting and challenging game that offers players a variety of options for gameplay. One of the most interesting and unique options is to start underground. Starting underground presents its own set of challenges and opportunities, but with the right mindset and strategy, it can be a very rewarding experience. In this blog post, we will discuss how to start underground in Age of Wonders 4 and provide tips and strategies for success.

The first step to starting underground is to obtain the Underground Adaptation Mind Trait. This trait allows your units to move through underground areas without suffering any penalties, and it also grants them additional combat bonuses when fighting in these areas. To obtain this trait, your leader must have the "Underground Adaptation" ability, which requires a minimum of 2 levels in the "Warrior" skill. Once you have this ability, you can select the Underground Adaptation Mind Trait during character creation.

The advantages of having the Underground Adaptation Mind Trait are numerous. Not only does it allow your units to move freely through underground areas, but it also provides combat bonuses when fighting in these areas. This can be a significant advantage when facing opponents who are not adapted to underground combat.

Before starting underground, it's important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. One advantage is that underground areas offer unique strategic opportunities. For example, you can create chokepoints and ambush points that can be difficult for opponents to navigate. Additionally, underground areas often have resources that are not available on the surface, which can give you an edge in the game.

However, there are also disadvantages to starting underground. For example, underground areas are often limited in terms of resources, which can make it difficult to build up your economy. Additionally, underground areas can be dangerous, with traps and hazards that can damage or kill units.

One way to overcome the resource limitations of underground areas is to build farms in caverns. This allows you to produce food in areas where it might not otherwise be possible. However, farming in the underground presents its own set of challenges. For example, you may need to build irrigation systems to ensure that your crops get enough water. Additionally, you may need to deal with pests and other hazards that are unique to underground environments.

When playing underground, there are several strategies that can help you succeed. One strategy is to take advantage of the Excavation empire skill, which allows you to dig tunnels and create shortcuts through the underground. This can be particularly useful for moving troops quickly and for creating surprise attacks.

Another strategy is to take advantage of terrain types. For example, underground areas often have narrow passages that can be used to create chokepoints or to block off areas. Additionally, underground areas often have natural defenses, such as rock formations or underground rivers, that can be used to your advantage.

Finally, it's important to avoid common mistakes when playing underground. For example, don't underestimate the dangers of the underground, and be sure to keep your units well-equipped and prepared for combat. Additionally, don't neglect your surface empire, as you will still need to maintain a strong economy and military presence above ground.