New franchise instalment joins exciting PC line-up of LIVE-enabled titles from Microsoft Game Studios.
COLOGNE, Germany â August 17, 2009 â On the eve of Gamescom 2010, the worldâs largest consumer-oriented games showcase, Microsoft Corp. unveiled the newest addition to the famed âAge of Empiresâ franchise, âAge of Empires Online.â Microsoft also announced the development of âMicrosoft Flight,â a new entry inspired by the best-selling âMicrosoft Flight Simulatorâ franchise. Published by Microsoft Game Studios, these new titles, along with the previously announced âFable III,â fully integrate the free* Games for Windows â LIVE online service to deliver compelling socially connected gameplay experiences.
âToday, weâre bringing powerful, inventive gaming experiences to the Windows-based PC,â said Phil Spencer, corporate vice president of Microsoft Game Studios. âOver the years, our PC heritage captured the hearts and minds of millions of players. Reinventing these iconic franchises with social, shared experiences at their core marks the beginning of our return to PC gaming in bold new ways.â
âAge of Empiresâ for a New Era
With more than 20 million copies sold worldwide, the âAge of Empiresâ series redefined real-time strategy games for Windows-based PC players. Now, the timeless franchise once again invites players to experience its rich storyline in new ways. âAge of Empires Onlineâ will invite players to create a living, growing online world, shared with friends and friendly rivals around the globe. Begin the journey with your own Greek civilisation, and watch as it progresses from a village to an empire. Embark on quests along the way, alone or with friends, and immerse yourself in epic tales, quirky characters, adventure, history and strategy. Together with the Games for Windows â LIVE service, âAge of Empires Onlineâ delivers a rich, social experience that lets you play however you want â anywhere, anytime.
Marrying fresh features with iconic gameplay, âAge of Empires Onlineâ offers something for long-time fans, newcomers and everyone in between. âAge of Empires Onlineâ will feature:
- A persistent online capitol city that lives and grows even when youâre offline
- Cooperative multiplayer quests, trading and a level-based system that lets you progress at your own pace
- Fun, approachable style and storylines
- Free-to-play experiences via Games for Windows â LIVE
More information, news and chances to join the beta program are available at http://www.ageofempiresonline.com.