Age of Empires: Online
Aug 16, 2011 15 years ago
Age of Empires Online is a multiplayer online real-time strategy game developed by Robot Entertainment and Gas Powered Games, which released on August 16, 2011. Based upon the gameplay of the Age of Empires series, it was originally developed by Robot Entertainment, but on February 24, 2011, Gas Powered Games, took over production. The game was published by Microsoft. The game was free-to-play—it was free for users to play, though premium content could be earned or purchased, such as access to special items and blueprints, and more quests and features. On March 27, 2012, the game premiered on Steam after a major overhaul patch which addressed complaints of an "MMO-like grind" and many other features, along with the debut of the Celtic civilization. On June 15, 2012 the premium content system was changed to offer the option to purchase all past and future content through "Empire points" earned in game, or by purchasing the points directly with real world money. As of January 3, 2013, Microsoft ceased further development on the game. A Microsoft representative later announced on the forums that on August 22, 2013, the Games for Windows – Live Marketplace would be shut down, leaving the game only accessible by current or former players. In September 2013, it was announced that the game would remain functional until July 1, 2014 when the service would be shut down. The closure was due to the content being too expensive to maintain. In 2017, Age of Empires Online was reestablished using Microsoft's publicly released developer-kit for the game and is now hosted on a server emulator known as "Project Celeste". The game can be played for free in single-player and multiplayer mode with all online features fully enabled. In May 2019, the team announced that they are developing Microsoft's unreleased Roman civilization for play based upon all known data of the civilization before the official servers were closed. It was finalized and released on March 14th, 2021
What it’s like
Age of Empires Online reimagines the classic RTS formula by grafting MMO progression mechanics onto traditional base-building and resource management. Players lead a civilization through historical eras, from the Stone Age to the Iron Age, gathering resources and constructing buildings while simultaneously leveling up individual heroes with RPG-style skills and gear. The experience is defined by its blend of strategic macro-management and character-driven micro-play, offering both cooperative PvE campaigns against AI enemies and competitive PvP skirmishes. While the narrative serves primarily as a framing device for quests rather than a deep literary endeavor, the core appeal lies in the satisfying loop of upgrading units, unlocking new technologies, and coordinating with teammates in large-scale battles. The game features a distinct isometric perspective and a colorful, stylized art direction that differentiates it from its more realistic RTS contemporaries.
Strong in Co-op / MultiplayerCombatGameplay / MechanicsProgression / ReplayabilitySocial / Relationships
Keep in mind The original official servers are permanently shut down; current access relies entirely on the community-run Project Celeste emulator, which may lack official support or updates. The heavy emphasis on RPG grinding can alienate purists who prefer pure strategic RTS gameplay without character progression systems.
AI-generated from catalog data.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Aug 16, 201115 years ago |
