On the surface, there’s seemingly little difference from the 2005 version.

With such a pedigree, does Definitive Edition actually live up to, if not surpass, Ensemble’s original? The short answer would be a resounding yes, though not without some birthing pains. In addition to having Command and Conquer veteran Adam Isgreen in charge of World’s Edge, it’s worth noting how Forgotten Empires not only traces its origins back to a team of modders for Age of Empires II, but has also come to include ex-Ensemble Studios staff among its ranks. Even the current development team is emblematic. It’s also brought newer fans to the storied saga. Not only has itgarnered a loyal following, inspiring a modding community and vibrant multiplayer scene that remain active to this day.

In addition, series co-creator Bruce Shelly had even referred to it in a 2011 interview as a disappointment, if not a “huge mistake.” At the same time, however, the game’s a solid entry in its own right. The original Age of Empires III garnered a mixed reception among gamers back in the day, be it for the backdrop, creative decisions or gameplay mechanics like the Home City system. After all, it’s been a long road leading up to its Steam release on October 15, 2020. If that sounds like much praise, you wouldn’t be faulted for thinking so. Despite a rocky launch and controversy that could have snuffed it at the crib, over a year on, Tantalus Media, World’s Edge, and Forgotten Empires have done much to make this title worthy of the franchise Ensemble Studios forged back in 1997. Released almost 15 years to the day after the original, Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is proof that the once-underappreciated title has been vindicated in the eyes of RTS fans.

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