Age of Empires IV Adds Vikings and Scots: What Raiders of the North Actually Unlocks

Age of Empires IV: Raiders of the North is out, adding the Vikings and Scots, four new Crucible missions and two biomes. The expansion launched on October 29, 2026, across Steam, Microsoft Store, Xbox and PlayStation 5, according to the official announcement.

The Crucible requires either this expansion or Dynasties of the East. Returning players should check which missions they own before arranging a co-op session.

What the Vikings and Scots bring

The official Steam listing describes two full civilizations with their own architecture, music, masteries and evolving languages.

• Vikings: mobile melee infantry, early naval strength and a Longhouse-based economy. Their Sagas reward accomplishments, while later ages bring changes to the army and society.
• Scots: defensive infantry and fortifications, supported by Highland cattle and fishponds. Their Mustering Hall lets players develop Highland or Lowland military strengths.

These are the developer’s descriptions of the new factions, not a tested ranking of their competitive strength. The two new battlefield environments are Scottish Heathland and Tundra Summer.

Which DLC do you need for The Crucible?

World’s Edge’s ownership FAQ gives this breakdown:

Raiders’ four missions are Sea Raiders, Scottish Isthmus, Lost Desert, and Thunder & Trumpets. They add encounters such as coastal raids and fighting between Scottish clans. The simultaneous update also expands progression and the ways to configure a run.

Before inviting a co-op partner

In a premade two-player lobby, both players must own the DLC for the chosen mission. Your purchase does not unlock it for your partner.

Quick Match requires either DLC, but can match you into the other pack’s missions to reduce waiting. It operates in Standard Mode; Conqueror and Custom require a teammate already in your lobby. Progression carries between solo and co-op; records do not.

Base game and platforms

This is paid downloadable content, not a standalone game. Steam requires Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition on Steam, and the Xbox product page likewise states that the base game is required and sold separately. Match the add-on to the platform where you play; the launch announcement does not promise that a purchase transfers between storefronts.

The Xbox listing also specifies a qualifying Game Pass console-multiplayer subscription for online multiplayer on console. That service requirement is separate from owning the expansion. Check the current product page for your account and region before purchasing. Follow more releases and updates in our Gaming coverage.