Xbox console brethren rejoice, Microsoft is finally bringing Age of Empires to consoles!
The wait isn’t even that long. Age of Empires II Definitive Edition is coming to Xbox Series X/S on January 31, 2023.
From Xbox Wire:
We knew that bringing the complexity of RTS to Xbox consoles was a massive task and one we had to approach carefully and thoughtfully. The team has been working hard to bring an experience that not only feels great using a controller, but also teaches players how to play on Xbox. A new tutorial designed specifically for controller input paired with a new user experience for console will help players get started. We’ve also added a new game AI which helps make resource management in a strategy game efficient and intuitive.
We’re so excited to bring one of the best and most beloved RTS games of all time to Xbox. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition has been growing since its release in 2019. After almost 40 updates, 3 DLC additions bringing new civilizations and campaigns, and a constant stream of improvements, the game is the best it’s ever been. Players can enjoy 83 maps, 42 multiplayer civilizations, 34 single-player campaigns, 10 multiplayer modes, and 7 co-op campaigns. And now, Xbox players will be able to enjoy all this phenomenal game has to offer!
For those players who are loyal to keyboard and mouse, we’ve ensured that those inputs are supported in the console version. We also considered the functionality Xbox players have come to expect from their games and so the game will include optional crossplay between platforms, allowing you to play with your friends on Xbox and on PC. We’re also bringing the game to Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta), allowing players to continue their empire building, even when away from PC or console.
Later in 2023, Age of Empires IV will also be coming to Xbox Series X/S.
Smith’s Sentiment: Fantastic news. I own Age of Empires II Definitive Edition on PC, but it’s been a while since I’ve touched it. Hopefully it translates well to consoles, which I have faith the developers have done a good job of making it intuitive.
