This is a comprehensive remaster of a classic real-time strategy title, bringing its historical conflicts and grand narratives to modern audiences. It features remastered graphics and audio, alongside all previously released downloadable content and new additions, aiming to provide a complete experience for both returning players and those new to the series. The game invites players to explore pivotal moments in history through its engaging campaign and diverse civilizations.

A Journey Through the Age of Discovery

The core of the experience lies in its story-driven campaign, which unfolds across three distinct "Acts," each following a different generation of the fictional Black family. Narrated by Amelia Black, these acts immerse players in a narrative that blends historical settings with elements of adventure and mystery. Players will command unique civilizations tied to the era and characters of each Act, such as the Knights of St. John, John Black's Mercenaries, and the United States. While most units speak English, unique units from various civilizations retain their original languages, adding a layer of authenticity.

Act I, "Blood," begins in the late 16th century with Morgan Black defending Malta from the Ottoman Empire. This initial scenario sets the stage for a quest across the New World, involving the discovery of ancient secrets, a search for the legendary Fountain of Youth, and encounters with pirates and rival factions. The storyline progresses through engagements in the Caribbean, New Spain, and Florida, culminating in a confrontation with a clandestine society known as the Circle of Ossus.

Core Gameplay and Modernized Features

As a real-time strategy game, the gameplay centers on resource management, base building, and tactical combat. Players gather resources, train armies, and develop their economies to outmaneuver and defeat opponents. The Definitive Edition enhances the original experience with modernized gameplay mechanics, improved user interfaces, and updated visuals that bring the historical settings to life with greater detail and fidelity. This remaster aims to preserve the strategic depth and core mechanics of the original while refining the overall player experience.

What are the key improvements in this edition?

This edition represents a significant overhaul of the original game. Key updates include:

Visual and Audio Enhancements

Remastered graphics with updated textures, lighting, and visual effects.
Re-recorded music and sound effects for a more immersive auditory experience.

Content Additions

Includes all previously released expansions and downloadable content.
Introduces new playable civilizations and campaigns, expanding the game's scope.

Gameplay Modernizations

Improved user interface and quality-of-life features for smoother gameplay.
Updated AI for more challenging and dynamic encounters.

What content is available?

This release is a comprehensive package, incorporating all previously released content. It includes two major expansions and two downloadable content packs, offering a vast amount of gameplay and historical scenarios. The base game's campaign is presented in its entirety, complemented by the additional content, ensuring a rich and varied strategic experience.

Available Expansions and DLC

All original expansions are included.
All previously released downloadable content is integrated.
New content has been added to enhance the overall offering.