Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition on Console is Out Now, Includes Optimized Controls and New Tutorials

A new era has begun. Age of Empires’ time on console has begun! The critically-acclaimed and beloved game is now available on consoles worldwide. Age of Empires II: The definitive editionAvailable on Xbox consoles that have Xbox Game Pass. This edition was designed to be used with controllers. It enhances the gameplay and innovates. The Xbox controllers allow rulers to show their strength in 200 hours worth of historical gameplay. This includes over 1000 years’ human history and 35 civilizations.  From the comfort of your own couch, you can experience moments of global history.

Age of Empires II: The definitive editionSince its 2019 release, the game has seen almost 40 updates and 3 DLC enhancements. There are 83 maps and 42 multiplayer civilisations. All this content can be accessed on console using the Age of Empires II: The Deluxe Definitive editionAvailable from launch. Our passionate community of Age players have been asking us to bring Age to console – and we’ve been listening. Knowing that bringing this bastion of strategy gaming to Xbox’s around the world would require thought and care, we’ve taken time to produce a version of Age of Empires II: The definitive editionwith console and controller gamers at the core of the design.

We’re proud of the extensive work the Age of Empires team has put into this game to ensure the best possible controller experience. Here are some of the ways we’ve adapted Age of Empires II: The definitive editionXbox allows you to turn it on and off with the following:

• A new UI/UX was implemented that is optimized to handle controller input. Allowing you to manage your many resources, units and goals on screens from Cloud Gaming enabled mobile devices to large-scale UHD TVs, we’ve ensured that the UI allows for easy readability and comprehension, allowing you to put maximum focus on your build orders and strategies.  You can experience native controller user interface design with D-pad shortcuts, command wheel and many other features.

• Age of Empires has new features that will enhance both the novice and experienced player’s experiences. Whether this is your first foray into empire building, or whether you’re a seasoned ruler, we’ve added innovations to make your experience on console smooth and productive. This includes Site Based Commands (villain automation) and Villager Automation, which help to balance your time and keep your eyes on the prize so your troops can advance!

• A new tutorial has been created specifically to teach controller usage. Instructions will be given to all players on how to use the controller to help build an empire. We’ll supplement the in-game features with a “Learn to Play” guide on AgeOfEmpires.com specifically for this edition. We’ve also included story difficulty campaign missions, allowing you to focus on the historical moments and building your skills as you work towards a harder difficulty.

• The console version will allow players who prefer keyboard and mouse to play. We’ve ensured those inputs are supported, giving you options for how you choose to play.

• 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.

This is the beginning of Age of Empires’ console era, and we’ll have more for you later this year. Get ready to prove yourself with Age of Empires II: The definitive edition and you’ll be able to add Age of Empires IVYou can add your name to the roster in 2023. More information on this release will be available as we continue to update you.

Age of Empires II: The definitive editionIt is now available for $19.99 at the Microsoft Store [LINK]Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Xbox. You can enjoy the extra campaigns and civilizations that our DLC upgrades have added by purchasing the Deluxe Definitive Ed bundle. It includes the base game as well Lords of the West Dawn of the Dukes Dynasties of India, and the Deluxe Definitive Edition. If you’re already an owner of the base game on Microsoft Store you’ll have free access to the new console version to enjoy on both platforms.

And as an added thank you, everyone who plays will be given a free entry Age of Empires II: The definitive editionYou can enjoy fun confetti mods between January 31-February 14!

It’s time to Ready Up. Wololo!