Microsoft is gearing up for release of the Definitive Edition for Age of Empires III, the latest release (looking way back at 2005) in the acclaimed RTS series. The new Definitive Edition will see 4K graphics, rebuilt 3D assets, a modernized UI, cross-play multiplayer, and fully enhanced soundtrack and audio. It will also feature all expansions released for the original game (The WarChiefs and The Asian Dynasties). All in all, we're talking about three full campaigns, and a total of 16 playable civilizations (14 from the original game and expansions, and two new factions in the form of the Incas and Swedes).

Interesting to note is that Microsoft realized they weren't faithfully representing Native American civilizations and their cultures in the original game, and "worked with tribal consultants to respectfully and accurately capture the uniqueness of their peoples, history, and cultures". As a result, "returning players will find there's been some fundamental changes to the Native American civilizations ".Two new Game Modes will also make their debut: Historical Battles and The Art of War Challenge Missions. Minimum requirements refer to a pretty paltry Intel Core i3 2105 or AMD Phenom II X4 973 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a GeForce GT 430, Radeon HD 5570 or Intel HD 4400 graphics card. Recommended requirements include an Intel i5 3300 or AMD FX-8350 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a GeForce GTX 980 or Radeon R9 Fury graphics card. 42 GB of available storage are mandatory.