Age of Empires 2 is one of the most celebrated strategy games. The 2019 PC release saw a lot of positive reviews for a revival of a classic. Those who’ve played the original version know that Microsoft was its first publisher. It returns home once more with the Definitive Edition Xbox console releases.
According to Microsoft, AoE 2: Definitive Edition will be available for Xbox One and Xbox Series on January 31, 2023. It is in line with the 25th-year celebration of the game’s first release and a part of the celebration of Age of Empires 4. AoE 4 will be released later in the year, confirmed by Microsoft, along with the definitive edition announcement.
What Can Players Expect in the Definitive Edition?
Since it’s been three to four years since the original Definitive Edition release, fans can expect some improvements to the game. It’s also necessary since its original design was to be a strategy game played on the PC. Microsoft confirmed that players can use their controller. Keyboard and mouse support is still available for anyone finding comfort in it.
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Since using the controller can be tricky, it will include an exclusive tutorial to help players become accustomed to using it in the game. There will also be controller-specific inputs, acting similarly to macro keys with keyboards. The goal is to make the gameplay experience feel seamless, even in tense situations.
The definitive edition also added a game AI to help with resource management. According to them, it is the best way to make the game feel intuitive.
Cross Platform Access
Another point that Microsoft and co-developer World’s Edge focused on is cross-play support. Both AoE 2: Definitive Edition and AoE 4 will support cross-platform. That means that console players will be able to match against PC veterans. Some fans are concerned that PC may have an advantage. The addition of keyboard and mouse support can level the playing field.
A Revolutionary Strategy Game
Many believe that the original Age of Empires II was the catalyst for strategy games at the time. The Definitive Edition will feature three new campaigns and four more playable civilizations. There will also be a co-op mode and other added modes to play.
The biggest benefit that comes with new technology is enhanced graphics. AoE II was a visual standard at the time, but seeing it give love to its graphics engine is a welcome sight for any fan. Veterans of the game who haven’t played the definitive edition yet can expect better visuals and smooth gameplay.
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Age of Empires IV, on the other hand, is a new entry that brings more variety to the PVP and PVE modes from its predecessor. It will also feature a campaign that follows the conquests of Genghis Khan. The other campaign follows the revolution brought about by Joan of Arc.
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