If you’re a mobile gamer who prefers to get your gaming on the go from the smartphone powered by Android or the iPhone, Microsoft has a new videogame that you might be interested in. The software giant has announced that it will be producing a version of its Age of Empires game franchise specifically for mobile devices. The game will mark the first time an official Microsoft game title has been released for mobile platforms.
Initially, the game will come for English speakers only and will be developed by Japanese game developer KLab and will be released globally. After the Android and iOS version of the game launches, a version for Windows Phone users and other languages will follow. Microsoft says that the game will have a mobile social component.
Development and Features
Developer KLab plans to license various titles from the Microsoft PC and console library and port them to mobile devices. Age of Empires is expected to launch by March of 2014 as a mobile freemium game. It will be free to play but gamers will have to pay for additional in-game items and services. This freemium model is quite popular in the mobile gaming industry, allowing players to enjoy the core game for free while offering in-app purchases for those who want to enhance their gaming experience.
The mobile version of Age of Empires will aim to capture the essence of the original game, which is known for its real-time strategy gameplay. Players will be able to build their own empires, manage resources, and engage in battles with other players. The mobile adaptation will also include social features, allowing players to connect with friends and form alliances, adding a new layer of strategy and community to the game.
Legacy and Impact
Age of Empires has been an incredibly popular franchise with seven games and three spinoff titles that have sold 22 million copies combined all around the world. The series has a rich history, starting with the original Age of Empires game released in 1997. Over the years, the franchise has evolved, introducing new civilizations, technologies, and gameplay mechanics, keeping fans engaged and attracting new players.
The decision to bring Age of Empires to mobile platforms is a significant move for Microsoft, as it reflects the growing importance of mobile gaming in the industry. With more people using smartphones and tablets for gaming, developers are increasingly focusing on creating high-quality mobile games that can compete with traditional PC and console titles. By entering the mobile market, Microsoft is not only expanding the reach of the Age of Empires franchise but also tapping into a lucrative and rapidly growing segment of the gaming industry.
Moreover, the collaboration with KLab, a well-known Japanese game developer, highlights Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a high-quality mobile gaming experience. KLab has a strong track record of developing successful mobile games, and their expertise will be crucial in ensuring that the mobile version of Age of Empires lives up to the expectations of fans.
The upcoming mobile version of Age of Empires represents an exciting development for both fans of the franchise and mobile gamers. With its rich history, engaging gameplay, and new social features, the game has the potential to become a major hit on mobile platforms. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how other classic game franchises adapt to the mobile landscape and what new opportunities this shift will bring.
via PC World
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