Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition

AoE 3 DE, AoE 3: Definitive Edition, Age of Empires 3 Definitive Edition

Released

Release Date: October 15, 2020

A refreshed and improved version of Age of Empires III, a game from 2005 that was the third installment in the series of best-selling real-time strategy games. The new version was developed by Forgotten Empires, a studio that also created remastered editions of the first and second games in the series. Most of the changes are related to the graphics and interface – they were adapted to modern computers and displays.

7.9

OpenCritic

8.4

Steam

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Ratings

[1:37] Knights of the Mediterranean trailer

 Videos: 4 

Images: 13 

Plot
Mechanics
Game modes
Technical aspects

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is an overhauled and improved version of Age of Empires III, the third entry in the legendary series of best-selling real-time strategy games. The original game debuted in 2005. The new version was developed by Forgotten Empires, the creators of the remastered editions of the first and second entry in the saga.

Plot

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition for PC consists of the content of the basic version of the game (that enables the player to participate in the conquest of America) and of two official expansion packs, The Asian Dynasties.

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Mechanics

In comparison to the original version of the game, the mechanics of Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition are identical. However, when compared to the versions of Age of Empires and Age of Empires II that were also brought up to date, there are many improvements and changes. The player must once again manage a settlement by gathering resources, constructing new buildings, revealing areas of the map and leading the nation through various ages. The title also features home cities which cannot be controlled – they serve as a place where the player can obtain various goods.

Combat is an important aspect of the game – the player can use infantry, cavalry, siege engines and powerful artillery. It is worth mentioning that various nations look different and they have various advantages and disadvantages – some of them also offer unique units and traits that make it easier to forge alliances with other sides of the conflict.

Game modes

In addition to singleplayer modes (story campaigns, skirmishes), Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition for PC features a multiplayer mode.

Technical aspects

In comparison to the original version of the game, the graphics of Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition were greatly improved. However, the contrast isn’t as spectacular as in case of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. The game was adapted for modern computers and displays (it s 4K resolution) and it has improved interface.

Platforms:

PC Windows

Developer: World's Edge (PC)

Publisher: Xbox Game Studios / Microsoft Studios

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Age of Empires III

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Game Series

16GAMES

Age of Empires Game Series

The bestselling series of real-time strategy (RTS) games, which is under the publishing supervision of Microsoft. Over the years, the development of the series has been handled by various development studios. Its first three installments were developed by the now-defunct Ensemble Studios, while the fourth part of the series was the work of the Relic Entertainment and World's Edge teams (which in 2019 was entrusted with the care of the series). In addition, such studios as Forgotten Empires, Griptonite Games, Gas Powered Games, Hidden Path Entertainment, Smoking Gun Interactive and TiMi Studios made their mark on the brand.

Age of Empires Game Series

Features

Originals

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News

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Patch Adds Co-op Mode

A new patch for Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition has been released. The update added a co-op mode, where we can play through twelve historical battles.

video games

Adrian Werner

February 7, 2022

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Patch Adds Co-op Mode

Mexico in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition; Devs Present New DLC

The creators of Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition have announced another DLC for the game. It will enable us to lead the forces of Mexico.

video games

Przemyslaw Dygas

November 23, 2021

Mexico in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition; Devs Present New DLC

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition's African DLC to Launch in the Coming Weeks

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition will soon get another expansion. The African Royals will introduce new content straight from humanity's cradle, which will keep us busy until the release of the fourth installment.

video games

Jacob Blazewicz

July 21, 2021

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition's African DLC to Launch in the Coming Weeks

Age of Empires 2 and 3 Remasters Will Get New Expansions

Microsoft has announced new expansions for Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition and Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition. What can we expect and when will they appear?

video games

Paul Musiolik

April 11, 2021

Age of Empires 2 and 3 Remasters Will Get New Expansions

Age of Empires 3 Definitive Edition Launches Today

Today, Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition will debut on the market. The game will be available on Steam and Microsoft Store.

video games

Adrian Werner

October 15, 2020

Age of Empires 3 Definitive Edition Launches Today

First Reviews: Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - Good Old RTS

Reviews of Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition have started appearing on the web. Critics received the refreshed third installment of the strategy game series warmly, as is brought no shame to its creators.

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Jacob Blazewicz

October 14, 2020

First Reviews: Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - Good Old RTS

Age of Empires 3 DE, Tales of Vesperia in Xbox Game

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October 13, 2020

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Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition System Requirements

Microsoft has published the system requirements of Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition, a refreshed version of the historical RTS.

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August 29, 2020

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition System Requirements

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Trailer Reveals Release Date and New Civilizations

Microsoft has finally officially announced Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition. The updated version of this classic RTS will offer, among others, two additional civilizations and new gameplay modes.

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Adrian Werner

August 27, 2020

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Trailer Reveals Release Date and New Civilizations

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Rated in Brazil, Suggesting Imminent Launch

The Brazilian agency Classificaçaçao Indicativa has rated Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition. This may suggest that the release of the refreshed version of this 2005 strategy game is approaching.

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Milosz Szubert

July 14, 2020

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition Rated in Brazil, Suggesting Imminent Launch

s

Top s for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Video Game:

All s

System Requirements

System Requirements for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Video Game:

PC / Windows

Minimum System Requirements:
Intel Core i3-2105 3.1 GHz / AMD Phenom II X4 973 2.8 GHz, 8 GB RAM, graphic card 1 GB GeForce GT 430 / Radeon HD 5570 or better, 42 GB HDD, Windows 10 64-bit.

Recommended System Requirements:
Intel Core i5-3300 3.0 GHz / AMD FX-8350 4.0 GHz, 16 GB RAM, graphic card 4 GB GeForce GTX 980 / Radeon R9 Fury or better, 42 GB HDD, Windows 10 64-bit.

Add-Ons and DLCs

List of Game Add-Ons and DLCs for Video Game:

DLC Knights of the Mediterranean May 26, 2022
DLC Mexico Civilization December 1, 2021
DLC The African Royals August 2, 2021
DLC United States April 13, 2021

Ratings

Game Ratings for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Video Game.

7.9

OpenCritic Rating

Game is Recomended by 79% of Critics. There are 54 Critic Reviews.

OpenCritic

IGN: 6 / 10 by Jonathan Bolding

Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition preserves for posterity the core of this weirdest 00s RTS experiments while making some much-needed changes. Love it or hate it, the definitive edition is Age of Empires 3 amplified.

Full Review

Hardcore Gamer: 3.5 / 5 by Fran Soto

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is the remaster the game deserves.

Full Review

Wccftech: 8.5 / 10 by Chris Wray

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is an undeniable and great improvement on the original. Featuring a huge amount of content, including some brand-new game modes, as well as a revamped and improved portion of the original campaign, there's a lot on offer. The AI is improved, though does have a few niggles here and there. Particularly so with pathfinding. This issue is overwhelmed by the amount of content on offer, great improvements to the aesthetics of the game, improvements to multiplayer as well as changes to the home city system outside of the campaign. While not as outright fantastic as Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, this is still a brilliant release and comes in at a very low price.

Full Review

84%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Very Positive (34,719)

STEAM

Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Gameplay Variety: Many s appreciate the diverse civilizations, unique mechanics, and the strategic depth of the game, which keeps it engaging and replayable.
Visual and Audio Enhancements: The remastered graphics and improved audio quality have received praise, with many noting the game's stunning visuals and immersive sound design.
Historical Depth: Players enjoy the historical narratives and the variety of cultures represented within the game, which adds an educational layer to the gameplay.
Community Engagement: Some s highlight the vibrant player base and the potential for modding, which can enhance the game's longevity and enjoyment.
Nostalgia Factor: Longtime fans of the series find joy in revisiting a classic game that holds significant sentimental value.

The main cons of the game

Developer Abandonment: A significant number of reviews express frustration over the developers' abandonment of the game, particularly after announcing and subsequently canceling promised DLC content.
Poor Communication: Many s highlight a lack of communication from the developers regarding updates and the cancellation of the DLC, leading to feelings of betrayal among the player base.
Balance Issues: s report ongoing balance problems between civilizations that affect gameplay, with some civilizations being perceived as overpowered.
Technical Problems: Several reviews mention bugs, crashes, and performance issues, particularly with the remastered version compared to the original.
Monetization Concerns: Some players feel that the game has shifted towards a cash grab model, with unnecessary microtransactions and cosmetic DLC that detracts from the core experience.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to s

Promised Content: s express disappointment over the cancellation of previously announced DLCs, specifically mentioning the absence of new civilizations like Poland and Denmark.
Improved Communication: Many players desire better communication from the developers regarding updates, bug fixes, and future content plans.
Balanced Gameplay: A call for better balance among civilizations to ensure that gameplay is more skill-based rather than determined by civilization choice.
Enhanced Multiplayer Features: Suggestions for better matchmaking and community-building features to foster a more engaging multiplayer experience.
Historical Representation: Some s wish for more historically accurate representations of civilizations, including the inclusion of specific units or factions that reflect their historical significance.

Summary

Overall, while Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition has its strengths, particularly in gameplay and nostalgia, the overwhelming sentiment among s is one of disappointment due to the perceived neglect and abandonment by the developers.

Summary generated on: February 3, 2025

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