The closure was due to the content being too expensive to maintain. In September 2013, it was announced that the game would remain functional until Jwhen the service would be shut down. A Microsoft representative later announced on the forums that on August 22, 2013, the Games for Windows – Live Marketplace would be shut down, leaving the game only accessible by current or former players. On Jthe premium content system was changed to offer the option to purchase all past and future content through 'Empire points' earned in game, or by purchasing the points directly with real world money.Īs of January 3, 2013, Microsoft ceased further development on the game. On March 27, 2012, the game premiered on Steam after a major overhaul patch which addressed complaints of an 'MMO-like grind' and many other features, along with the debut of the Celtic civilization. The game was free-to-play-it was free for users to play, though premium content could be earned or purchased, such as access to special items and blueprints, and more quests and features.

Based upon the gameplay of the Age of Empires series, it was originally developed by Robot Entertainment, but on February 24, 2011, Gas Powered Games, took over production.

Massively multiplayer online real-time strategy gameĪge of Empires Online is a multiplayer online real-time strategy game developed by Robot Entertainment and Gas Powered Games, which released on August 16, 2011.

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