Age of Empires is one of the most iconic real-time strategy (RTS) titles ever made. Built by Ensemble Studios and originally launched in 1997, Age of Empires proved a huge hit, and the franchise went on to sell over 20 million copies.
In 2013, Microsoft launched Age of Empires II HD on Steam, and began issuing updates and even new expansions, despite the game's age. Age of Empires II HD has proven insatiably popular, with eSports matches raking in tens of thousands of viewers on Twitch. Microsoft is now giving the original Age of Empires the same treatment, with refreshed 4K UHD visuals, improvements to A.I. and new zoom levels to give the classic game some modern flair.
Whether you're a fan of the franchise or a newcomer, Age of Empires HD is about to hit closed beta with an insider program similar to Sea of Thieves. The invites will begin heading out this week, so if you're ready to wololo yourself back into the medieval age, here's where you can sign up!
Sign up for the Age of Empires HD beta
Considering the success of Age of Empires II HD, it looks likely that Age of Empires HD could also prove to be a significant hit. If all goes well, maybe Microsoft will consider putting together a modern Age of Empires IV one day, who knows?
Let us know if you're going to join the Age of Empires HD beta in the comments, and make sure you check out Age of Empires II HD on Steam using the link below for $19.99.
