Just in time for gamescom 2010 Microsoft Corp. unveiled the newest addition to the famed “Age of Empires” franchise, “Age of Empires Online.” Microsoft also announced the development of “Microsoft Flight,” a new entry inspired by the best-selling “Microsoft Flight Simulator” franchise. Published by Microsoft Game Studios, these new titles, along with the previously announced “Fable III,” fully integrate the free Games for Windows -“ LIVE online service designed to deliver compelling socially connected gameplay experiences.
“Today, we’re bringing powerful, inventive gaming experiences to the Windows-based PC,” said Phil Spencer, corporate vice president of Microsoft Game Studios. “Over 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.”
“Age of Empires” for a New Era
The timeless franchise, Age of Empires, once again invites players to experience its rich storyline in new ways. Developed by Robot Entertainment, “Age of Empires Online” 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 civilization, 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.
Marrying new features with familiar gameplay, “Age of Empires Online” aims to offer something for long-time fans, newcomers and everyone in between. “Age of Empires Online” will feature:
- A persistent online capital city that lives and grows even when you’re 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 -“ LIVE
More information, news and chances to join the beta program are available at http://www.ageofempiresonline.com.
Introducing “Microsoft Flight”
Twenty-eight years after the debut of “Microsoft Flight Simulator 1.0,” Microsoft Game Studios also announced the internal development of “Microsoft Flight,” a new Windows exclusive. “Microsoft Flight” will bring a new perspective to the long-standing genre, welcoming everyone, including long-time fans, to experience the magic of flight.
A teaser of the future of Flight on the Windows-based PC is available at http://www.microsoft.com/games/flight.
Discover Adventure With “Fable” on the PC
“Fable III” for Windows lets you once again join the action, drama and adventure while you rule Albion as the next king or queen in an ever-evolving world of rebellion and revolution. Discover new quests and unlock new regions as you make choices and sacrifices to test your morality and potentially affect your entire kingdom. The choice is yours: reunite the impoverished people of your kingdom as their monarch, or bring Albion to the brink of collapse.
