Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition

Developer: World's Edge
Release: Oct 15th 2020
Platforms:
Free To Play
Strategy
Strategic
Nostalgic
Varied
Buggy
Unbalanced
Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Poster

" Engaging free-to-play RTS with diverse civilizations and fast gameplay but balance issues "

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Review

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is a remastered classic RTS that has garnered a largely positive reception, with many players praising its engaging gameplay and extensive content. The game features a variety of civilizations, a unique card system, and a blend of strategic depth and fast-paced action that appeals to both new and veteran players. The remaster adds new content, including civilizations, techs, and customization options, enhancing replayability.

However, the game is not without its flaws. Some users report significant balance issues, particularly with certain civilizations like Mexico and America, which can dominate matches unfairly. Technical problems such as crashes, bugs, and performance issues on modern systems are also frequently mentioned. Additionally, the removal of certain original features, like the card progression system, and the perceived lack of substantial campaign content have disappointed some fans. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a beloved entry in the Age of Empires series, offering hours of strategic entertainment.

Highlights

Players appreciate the game's smooth unit movement, fast pacing, and the strategic card system that adds depth to gameplay. The remaster's graphics and UI improvements are well-received, providing a polished visual experience for an RTS. The inclusion of numerous civilizations and customizable skirmish options offers variety and replayability. Fans enjoy the historical context and story elements, finding the campaigns and multiplayer modes engaging. Overall, the game delivers a solid RTS experience that honors the original while introducing new content.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on balance issues, with some civilizations considered overpowered, disrupting fair play. Technical problems, including frequent crashes, freezes, and poor optimization, hinder the gaming experience for many. The removal of beloved features like the card progression system detracts from the original charm. Players also express disappointment over the lack of meaningful new campaign content and the perception of the game as a cash grab due to DLC practices. Multiplayer communication difficulties and a decline in cooperative team play further affect enjoyment.

Pros

  • Engaging strategic gameplay with a unique card system enhances tactical depth.
  • Wide variety of civilizations offers diverse play styles and replayability.
  • Smooth unit movement and fast-paced gameplay keep matches dynamic.
  • Improved graphics and UI provide a polished visual and user experience.
  • Customizable skirmish options allow tailored game setups for players.
  • Historical context and story elements enrich the single-player campaigns.
  • Multiplayer modes offer competitive and cooperative play opportunities.

Cons

  • Balance issues with certain civilizations create unfair competitive advantages.
  • Frequent crashes and performance problems disrupt gameplay experience.
  • Removal of card progression system reduces strategic progression satisfaction.
  • Limited new campaign content disappoints players seeking fresh narratives.
  • DLC pricing and content perceived as cash grab by some users.
  • Multiplayer team communication often lacking, reducing cooperative fun.
  • Optimization issues cause low frame rates even on capable hardware.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition offers players a trial of this historical single & multiplayer RTS experience. *Note: To unlock all features of the game please see the “Base Game” product.

Release Date Oct 15th 2020
Publisher Xbox Game Studios
Developer World's Edge, Tantalus Media, Forgotten Empires
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (12,854)
84% Positive 16% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
75