After a few months of silence since the initial delay, Microsoft has released an official statement concerning the status of the much anticipated "Age of Empires: Definitive Edition" and has confirmed that it will launch for Windows 10 PCs at $19.99 on Feb. 20.
This remaster of "Age of Empires" will contain several improvements over the original game from 1997. The most noticeable thing is an overhaul to the game's audio and visuals. Assets have been completely rebuilt to fit modern 4K resolution and given a cleaner and crisper look; the soundtrack has been updated as well. It will also revive the multiplayer scene by allowing players to face each other online through Xbox LIVE.
Another new addition is the updated campaign and scenario editor which will allow players to create their own custom maps for the game. Players can then share their creations with the rest of the world which may help the longevity of the title.
In addition to that, they are opening up the multiplayer beta once again so that more players will be able to get a taste of the game before release. This new beta will start on Jan. 29.
The game was first announced in June 2017 at the Electronic Entertainment Expo. It was initially scheduled to release in October of that year in celebration of the original's 20th anniversary,
Unfortunately, about a week before it was set to launch, the developers announced that they were delaying the game because they wanted to make sure the final release would satisfy the fans of the original as well as modernize the experience to contemporary standards.
While many fans were disappointed at the announcement, the development team tried to placate them by refunding any erroneously charged pre-orders as well as giving those affected a free copy of "Rise of Nations: Extended Edition" for Windows 10.
