Classic real-time strategy game Age of Empires is back with a very polished Definitive Edition. And it’s not just a cheaply-upscaled port either. Age of Empires: Definitive Edition boasts 4K visuals, a smoothened camera, and huge interfac🧸e upgrades. It sounds line a must-have fꩵor any fans of the series. What could possibly go wrong with such a loving, well-executed remaster? Well, you can only play it on Windows 10.
In a very odd distribution choice, is available exclusively through the Windows 10 store. This naturally cuts out Mac andꦍ Linux users, but it also bafflingly excludes Windows users who don’t have 10 as well. It’s not like its a very taxing game when it comes to PC resources. The 4K is probably the only thing that requires very current equipment, and even that’s not something Windows 10 influences.
Another odd thing about this exclusivity is that it pits Definitive Edition against another updated game from the same franchise, Age of Empires 2 HD. Available on Steam, Age of Empires 2 HD has the benefit a wider distribution and therefore a larger online player-base. While Definitive Edition does offer online multiplayer, the number of available competitors will no doubt be smaller than the Steam-based sequel. AoE: 2 HD also just has more content, with three single player campaigns. When given the choice, most gamers would no doubt go for AoE 2: HD. Especially c♕onsidering both games cost the same at $20.
That said, AoE: Definitive Edition certainly looks like an expertly crafted remake. The developers actually put in the work to make the sprites anew so that they look great in 4K, rather than simply updating some textures. The UI has also been given some love, with a more open layout that really gives the new sprites room to shine. Even the sound design has been given an upgrade with brand new narration and a new orchestral s꧂oundtrack. Were it not for the unfortunate Windows 10 exclusivity, this would definitely be a huge release.
There’s always hope that Age of Empires: Definitive Edition does eventually get a wider release. If nothing else, pe♐rhaps it could be ported to Xbox One and given some ꦚlife on the Xbox Live scene. Who doesn’t want to hear a high-pitched, 12-year-old Roman general proclaim that he's had his way with your mother?