Age of Empires goes online

On the eve of Gamescom 2010, the world’s largest consumer-oriented games showcase, Microsoft 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 to deliver compelling socially connected gameplay experiences.

‚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

With more than 20 million copies sold worldwide, the ‚Age of Empires‚ series redefined real-time strategy games for Windows-based PC players. Now, the timeless franchise once again invites players to experience its rich storyline in new ways. ‚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. Together with the Games for Windows ‚ LIVE service, ‚Age of Empires Online‚ delivers a rich, social experience that lets you play however you want ‚Äî anywhere, anytime.

Marrying fresh features with iconic gameplay, ‚Age of Empires Online‚ offers something for long-time fans, newcomers and everyone in between. ‚Age of Empires Online‚ will feature:

¬∑ A persistent online capitol 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