Age of Empires: Definitive Edition launches globally next month

The original Age of Empires game arrived in North America more than two decades ago, on October 15, 1997. Now, its remastered version known as Age of Empires: Definitive Edition is almost here, with the release date confirmed for February 20.

According to Microsoft's Creative Director Adam Isgreen, it took a bit longer than expected to get the attack-move and the improved minimap features right, but now the remastered Age of Empires is ready to hit the market. More than just being a 4K remaster of the original, Age of Empires: Definitive Edition includes a few new features, such as the in-game tech tree.

In addition to the tech tree mentioned above, Age of Empires: Definitive Edition comes with the following highlights:

• campaign narration for every mission
• Xbox LIVE and LAN play multiplayer
• rebuilt assets with 4K support
• re-recorded original soundtrack with a new orchestral score
• enhanced campaign and scenario editor

All the changes were made "while retaining the original feel and unique gameplay that made Age of Empires so special for so many." Priced at just US$19.99, Age of Empires: Definitive Edition looks like a great deal for all the fans of the series, but it will surely lure in some of those gamers who were not around yet two decades ago for the original.

To make everything even better, the multiplayer beta will open for more players on January 29, so anyone interested can get a taste of Age of Empires: Definitive Edition for free before its launch. For more information and to sign up for the beta, those interested should check AgeOfEmpires.com.