Classic games reloaded: Age of Empires II is back on the Mac | News

Some computer games apparently stay young forever. One of the games that has had a large fan base for decades is “Age of Empires”, which was first released in 1997. With more than 30 million copies sold, the five titles and several spin-offs are one of the most successful series in the world. The games have been revised and remastered in recent years. This also applies to “Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings”, which was released as a “Definitive Edition” in 2019, 20 years after its premiere. However, gaming fans with a Mac were denied this version – until now: The title is now also available for notebooks and desktops from Cupertino. However, there is a limitation when it comes to hardware.

Classic games requires a Mac with an Apple chip
“Age of Empires II – Definitive Edition” is only available for Macs with Apple Silicon. Owners of an Intel Mac are still unable to have fun with the classic real-time strategy games. Microsoft and the World’s Edge studio worked with Feral Interactive on development. According to the announcement, the game features “crisp 4K graphics” and a completely remastered soundtrack. There are also three expansions called “Lords of the West”, “Dynasties of India” and “Dawn of the Dukes”. These are included as standard and therefore do not cost any extra. In addition, the developers say they have improved the user-friendliness and added numerous new animations to the game. Mac users also have a wide range of DLC available to purchase.

Single player campaigns and online multiplayer
“Age of Empires II – Definitive Edition” presents players with the task of leading various civilizations through a thousand-year history. Among other things, you have to build a thriving economy, raise armies and transform a Dark Age village into an Imperial-era fortress. Both single-player campaigns and a repeatable battle mode are available. There is also the option to compete against other players in online multiplayer mode. Further information can be found in a guide for beginners and in detailed descriptions of all DLC packages. However, both are only available in English.

Compatible with all Macs with an Apple chip including MacBook Neo
“Age of Empires II – Definitive Edition” runs on all Macs with an Apple chip, including the MacBook Neo. The game requires at least 8 gigabytes of RAM and takes up 16 gigabytes of storage space. It can be played in 17 languages, including German, English, French and Spanish as well as Polish, Italian and Turkish. The game costs 32.99 euros and is available via Steam. DLCs ​​are available at prices between 12.99 euros and 19.99 euros.