Developers – World’s Edge, Forgotten Empires, Tantalus Media, CaptureAge, Virtuos Games

Publisher – Xbox Game Studios

Platforms –  Xbox One Series S|X, Geforce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming ,PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

It’s been over two decades since Age of Mythology first captured the hearts of strategy game enthusiasts, and now, with Age of Mythology: Retold, the legendary spin-off from the Age of Empires series makes a long-awaited return. The original game, released in 2002, built upon the foundation that Age of Empires had established in the RTS genre, but brought something fresh to the table. Instead of focusing purely on historical events, Age of Mythology introduced players to a world where gods, mythical creatures, and epic legends shaped the battlefield. For many, this departure from historical realism was a welcome change, offering a blend of strategic depth with the flair of ancient mythologies.

Age of Mythology was developed by Ensemble Studios, the same minds behind Age of Empires, and served as a beloved offshoot that explored the fantastical elements of Greek, Egyptian, and Norse mythologies. This detour from the historically grounded Age of Empires series allowed players to not just manage armies but to summon godly powers and field mythological units like Minotaurs and Anubites. The game garnered critical acclaim for its unique spin on the formula and has since maintained a strong cult following, even as RTS games saw a general decline in the years that followed.

As the Age of Empires series continued to thrive, fans of Age of Mythology were left wondering if their favorite spin-off would ever see new life. The Definitive Editions of Age of Empires rekindled the fire for classic RTS games, and whispers of a return to Age of Mythology began to circulate. Fast forward to 2024, and those whispers have materialized into Age of Mythology: Retold, a fully modernized version of the game that seeks to bring its mythical battles to a new generation while also reigniting the passion of long-time fans.

As previously mentioned ,In Age of Mythology: Retold, the gameplay retains the core mechanics that made the original a fan favorite while introducing new elements that enhance its mythological charm. Players once again get to choose from the Greek, Norse, Egyptian, and Atlantean pantheons, each offering distinct divine powers and units. This allows for a deeply strategic experience where summoning gods and utilizing their powers can turn the tide of battle. The new Retold version emphasizes these divine interactions even more, giving players access to a range of godly abilities such as summoning destructive lightning storms, initiating earth-shaking quakes, or calling forth the mighty Nidhogg dragon. These elements are designed to elevate the strategic depth and excitement, staying true to the spirit of the original while expanding its mythical arsenal.

The unit roster has also been expanded and revitalized in Retold. While the original game introduced players to units like Centaurs, Trolls, and Mummies, the updated version brings these creatures to life with enhanced visuals and animations. Players can command mythical beasts from various cultures, including the awe-inspiring Cyclops and the bejeweled crocodiles that harness solar power.

The storytelling in Age of Mythology: Retold builds upon the robust narrative foundation of the original game. The updated version features multiple campaigns with 50 missions that transport players across a vast, mythological world. From laying siege to the fabled city of Troy and clashing with Giants in the icy realms of Midgard to uncovering the secrets of Osiris in the shifting sands of Egypt, the Retold version promises a grandiose adventure that spans the major mythological cultures.

The social aspect of the game has been significantly improved in Retold. While the original allowed for multiplayer battles and skirmishes, the Retold version offers a more robust multiplayer experience with advanced AI and dozens of randomly generated maps and scenarios. This ensures that players can enjoy endless re-playability, whether they are competing head-to-head with friends or facing off against sophisticated AI opponents. The ability to engage in both cooperative and competitive play enhances the game’s replay value and keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

In addition to the core enhancements and updates, Age of Mythology: Retold offers a Premium Edition that brings exclusive content and exciting new features to enrich the gameplay experience. One of the standout additions is the New Gods Pack, which introduces Freyr to the Norse pantheon. As the Norse god of prosperity and fertility, Freyr’s inclusion allows players to harness his unique blessings to elevate their reign and gain a strategic edge in battles. Freyr’s divine abilities promise to bring a fresh layer of depth and power to the Norse faction, offering new tactical options and ways to shape your empire’s destiny.

The Legacy Deity Portrait Pack is another highlight of the Premium Edition. This pack is a nostalgic nod to the classic era of gaming, allowing players to use iconic deity portraits from the original Age of Mythology. For fans who have cherished the game since its debut, this feature provides a sentimental journey back to the glory days, celebrating the game’s roots and its impact on the RTS genre.

Looking ahead, the Premium Edition also teases two upcoming expansions that promise to further expand the game’s mythological universe. The first expansion will introduce a brand-new Chinese pantheon, bringing with it a wealth of new gods, units, and mythological elements from Chinese culture. This addition is set to enrich the game’s diversity and provide fresh challenges and strategies. The second expansion will unveil another new pantheon, although details are still under wraps. Both expansions are highly anticipated and are expected to introduce even more depth and variety to the already rich tapestry of mythological warfare in Age of Mythology: Retold.

In conclusion, Age of Mythology: Retold stands as the ultimate way to experience a beloved classic, combining the timeless appeal of the original game with a host of modern enhancements. With its refreshed graphics, expanded gameplay mechanics, and a wealth of new content, this edition not only pays homage to the game that captivated millions but also reinvents it for a new generation of players. The inclusion of new gods, like Freyr, and the Legacy Deity Portrait Pack enrich the nostalgic experience, while the promise of upcoming expansions adds exciting new dimensions to the mythological universe.

The Retold version manages to capture the essence of what made the original Age of Mythology special while introducing features that elevate the strategic depth and replayability. Whether you’re a veteran who fondly remembers commanding mythical armies or a newcomer eager to explore its mythological realms, Age of Mythology: Retold offers a compelling and immersive RTS experience. It’s a celebration of the game’s legacy and a testament to its enduring appeal, making it the definitive edition for fans old and new. For those seeking to relive epic battles, harness divine powers, and command legendary creatures, Age of Mythology: Retold delivers an unparalleled adventure. It’s not just a remaster; it’s a revitalization of a classic, ensuring that the magic of mythological warfare continues to captivate and inspire.