Age of Empires 2 finally comes to Xbox and Cloud Gaming in January

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition art
(Image credit: Forgotten Empires | Tantalus)

What you need to know

  • Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is coming to Xbox consoles and Xbox Game Pass on January 31, 2023.
  • This is a classic game remastered for modern enjoyment.
  • The historical campaign boasts over 200 hours of playtime or you can engage in online co-op or competitive multiplayer.

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition already came to PC back in 2019, however, it's just now coming to Xbox consoles and Xbox Game Pass this year. According to a tweet from the Xbox Twitter account, this remastered classic releases on January 31 and is currently available for pre-install via Xbox Game Pass or preorder from Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S.

Gameplay centers around players controlling a small number of characters and using them to build and strengthen a civilization. As time goes on, players can acquire stronger weaponry and better means of acquiring materials. In the single-player campaign, players engage in historical battles with content that can last for over 200 hours. The Definitive Edition includes all previous expansions from back in the day along with a brand-new expansion for players to enjoy.

This game also offers both co-op and competitive multiplayer for two to eight players online. Anyone with an Xbox Game Pass membership can go in and pre-install the game or those who have an Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S can purchase the game on its own for $20. 

The original Age of Empires 2 released back in 1999 and is still considered by many to be one of the best multiplayer games of all time.

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition | $20 at Microsoft

Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition | $20 at Microsoft

Build your civilization and take on neighboring ones to prove you have the best skills. As you grow, your people can evolve and build better defenses and weaponry. Play against others or enjoy historical campaign. 

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Rebecca Spear
Gaming and News Editor

Self-professed gaming geek, Rebecca Spear, is one of Windows Central's editors and reviewers with a focus on gaming handhelds, PC gaming, and laptops. When she isn't checking out the latest games on Xbox Game Pass, PC, ROG Ally, or Steam Deck; she can be found digital drawing with a Wacom tablet. She's written thousands of articles with everything from editorials, reviews, previews, features, previews, and hardware reviews over the last few years. If you need information about anything gaming-related, her articles can help you out. She also loves testing game accessories and any new tech on the market. You can follow her @rrspear on X (formerly Twitter).