The long-awaited "Age of Empires: Definitive Edition" finally received a release date. The game was originally slated for an October 2017 release, but was pushed back to early 2018 instead. No release date was given at first, but an update on Jan. 18 finally gave the fans some good news – the game would finally see the light of day on Feb. 20.
The announcement read:
"As you have probably already seen we have announced the release date for Age of Empires: Definitive Edition! In just over a month on February 20th, 2018 you will be able to play AoE:DE to your hearts content. If you would like to read the original article written by Adam Isgreen you can do so here!"
The update then went on to mention the beta testing, stating that they would be accepting 100,000 more players to help wrap up the testing phase. Those interested can sign up for the Insider Program. The announcement stated they would be pulling a list of names on Jan. 25, and would be announcing the additional beta testers four days later on Jan. 29.
Players who join the beta testing will have a chance to help improve "Age of Empires: The Definitive Edition" before its launch date. Beta testers will be able to give feedback and answer surveys, helping find bugs and shape the game in their own little ways. Players must have an Xbox Live account and must be at least 18 years old to participate in the beta testing.
"Age of Empires: The Definitive Edition" is a reboot of the first game. It follows the same game mechanics and plot line, but tweaks things for newer generation consoles. Some of the major changes include: the game's updated art style and sound track, the removal of bugs and glitches, and the enhancement of controls to make them sleeker and more convenient for today's players.
"Age of Empires" is a history-based real-time strategy game that was originally launched in 1997 for Micosoft Windows, Micosoft Mobile, and the Macintosh.
