Summary

Release Year: 2013
Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Ensemble Studios, Hidden Path Entertainment
Publishers: Microsoft Studios

Age of Empires II: HD Edition: A Classic RTS Reimagined

Originally released in 1999, Age of Empires II is one of the most beloved real-time strategy (RTS) games of all time. In 2013, the game was remastered in high definition as Age of Empires II: HD Edition, bringing the classic gameplay to modern PCs.

HD Edition includes all the content from the original Age of Kings expansion, as well as the Conquerors expansion. This means that players have access to 18 civilizations, 13 campaigns, and over 200 historical units.

The HD Edition also features a number of graphical and gameplay improvements. The graphics have been updated to 1080p resolution, and the game now runs on a new engine that supports modern hardware. The gameplay has also been tweaked to make it more accessible to new players, while still retaining the challenge and depth that made the original game so popular.

One of the most significant changes in the HD Edition is the addition of a new AI system. The old AI was often criticized for being too easy to beat, but the new AI is much more challenging, even for experienced players. This makes the game more replayable, as players will need to use all of their skills to defeat the computer.

Another major change in the HD Edition is the addition of online multiplayer. In the original game, multiplayer was only available through LAN, but the HD Edition allows players to compete against each other online. This opens up the game to a much wider audience, and it makes it possible for players to find opponents of all skill levels.

Overall, Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a faithful and impressive remaster of a classic RTS game. The updated graphics, improved gameplay, and new AI system make it the definitive version of Age of Empires II. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a new player looking for a great RTS game to play, Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a must-play.

Gameplay

Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a real-time strategy game in which players control a civilization and must gather resources, build an army, and conquer their enemies. The game features a variety of different civilizations, each with its own unique units, buildings, and technologies.

Players begin the game by choosing a civilization and starting location. They must then gather resources, such as wood, food, and gold, in order to build buildings and train units. Once they have a strong enough army, they can attack their enemies and conquer their territory.

Age of Empires II: HD Edition features a variety of different game modes, including single-player campaigns, multiplayer matches, and custom scenarios. The single-player campaigns follow the stories of different historical figures, such as Joan of Arc and Genghis Khan. The multiplayer matches allow players to compete against each other online or through LAN. The custom scenarios allow players to create their own maps and game modes.

Graphics

The graphics in Age of Empires II: HD Edition have been completely overhauled from the original game. The game now runs on a new engine that supports modern hardware, and the graphics have been updated to 1080p resolution. The result is a game that looks stunningly beautiful, even by today’s standards.

The new graphics engine also allows for a number of new graphical effects, such as dynamic lighting and shadows. These effects add a new level of realism to the game, and they make the battles even more immersive.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Age of Empires II: HD Edition has been tweaked to make it more accessible to new players, while still retaining the challenge and depth that made the original game so popular.

One of the most significant changes is the addition of a new tutorial system. The tutorial system teaches players the basics of the game, such as how to gather resources, build buildings, and train units. This makes the game much easier to learn for new players.

Another change is the addition of a new difficulty setting. The new difficulty setting makes the game more challenging for experienced players, while still making it accessible to new players.

Overall, the gameplay in Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a perfect balance of accessibility and challenge. The game is easy to learn, but it still offers a deep and rewarding experience for experienced players.

AI

One of the most significant changes in Age of Empires II: HD Edition is the addition of a new AI system. The old AI was often criticized for being too easy to beat, but the new AI is much more challenging, even for experienced players.

The new AI system uses a variety of different strategies to attack and defend. It is also able to adapt its strategy to the player’s playstyle. This makes the game more replayable, as players will need to use all of their skills to defeat the computer.

Multiplayer

Age of Empires II: HD Edition features a variety of different multiplayer modes, including deathmatch, king of the hill, and capture the flag. Players can also create their own custom maps and game modes.

The multiplayer mode in Age of Empires II: HD Edition is very well-made. The matchmaking system is fair, and the games are usually very close. The game also supports a variety of different player levels, so players of all skill levels can find opponents to play against.

Conclusion

Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a faithful and impressive remaster of a classic RTS game. The updated graphics, improved gameplay, and new AI system make it the definitive version of Age of Empires II. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a new player looking for a great RTS game to play, Age of Empires II: HD Edition is a must-play.