The 250 word rundown: Age of Empires Online
on September 16, 2011 at 8:16 pm
Reviews are often lengthy, convoluted, and unmistakably bias. Instead of being told what to think about a game, I believe in trying one out for yourself. However, the price of a game usually makes reading a review a necessity. In place of a long, opinionated review, try out the 250 word rundown. These terse reviews offer up a quick glimpse into the game and whether or not it’s worth buying for several types of people.
Age of Empires Online is a free-to-play, always online version of the popular RTS. Although most of the AoE staples are there, including a few new and welcome additions, the game isn’t where it needs to be yet.
Two civilizations are available; Greek and Egypt. These civs have their unique elements but nothing that changes the game outright. Gamers can choose to upgrade their civs to Premium civs which gives them bonuses at higher levels, new units, bigger storage, and the ability to wear rare/epic gear. There’s nothing that makes playing AoE Online as a free player disappointing, but Premium players will be stronger. Not to mention, prices for the Premium civs might seem excessive ($20/civ).
Content is currently available to purchase in the form of a booster pack called The Defense of Crete. This match is a horde mode forcing the player to build quickly, turtle up, and defend for as long as s/he can. A preview of the map is available in the game, a great idea considering buying maps will be a challenge for some.
Unfortunately, the game has rocky issues with co-op and even disconnects to the Live server during solo play. This is only magnified by the lack of skirmish play currently in the game (skirmishes are scheduled to be added this holiday for a price). However, AoE Online is a free game that can be enjoyed for free. It’s worth installing and spending time with even if one doesn’t plan on purchasing anything for it.
AoE veterans: It’s free so try it.
AoE virgins: It’ll break the ice and introduce AoE mechanics.
RTS lovers: A nice distraction but many will be frustrated with the lack of skirmishes, connectivity issues, and the hollowness of two civs that aren’t that different.
