Info about Age of Empires: Definitive Edition:

Official game description:
Age of Empires, the pivotal RTS that launched a 20-year legacy returns in definitive form for Windows 10 PCs. Bringing together all of the officially released content with modernized gameplay, all-new visuals and a host of other new features, Age of Empires: Definitive Edition is the complete RTS package. Engage in over 40 hours of updated campaign content with new narration and pacing, jump online in up to 8-player battles with new competitive features and modes, experience 4K HD visuals with overhauled animations, get creative with the scenario builder and share your creations. There’s never been a better time to jump in to Age of Empires. Welcome back to history.

Release date: Aug 19, 2019

Categories: Real-Time Strategy, Historical Simulation, Multiplayer, Campaign Mode, Resource Management, Civilization Building, Strategy

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 15; verdict: Overpriced with DLC Confusion; summary: The reviews indicate significant dissatisfaction with the pricing of Age of Empires I: Definitive Edition. Users feel that the game is overpriced and does not offer sufficient value for the cost. Additionally, there is confusion and frustration regarding the need to purchase DLC for another game.
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game runs well on Linux using Proton Experimental, with users reporting a positive experience and successful gameplay on Debian 12.
- Steam Deck: score 55; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for the Steam Deck experience of Age of Empires: Definitive Edition reveals several critical issues. Users have reported significant stability problems, including crashes and unresponsive interfaces. Additionally, there are notable UI/UX issues, particularly with small font sizes and poor interface configuration. While the game is playable with Proton Experimental, this requirement adds a layer of complexity. Gameplay and AI issues have also been highlighted, with users expressing frustration over outdated mechanics and poor AI behavior. These findings indicate that while the game has its merits, there are substantial barriers to a seamless experience on the Steam Deck.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows that users generally feel the game is not worth the full price but is worth purchasing on sale. This indicates that the community considers the fair price to be lower than the current base game price. The repeated mentions of waiting for a sale suggest that users find value in the game only when it is discounted significantly.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 50.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: 3.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes direct mentions of playtime metrics. The first quote mentions that campaigns offer more than 40 hours of historical challenges, which can be interpreted as the time needed for story completion. The second quote indicates that it took the player about 7 hours to get a basic understanding of the game and 9 hours to fully understand the mechanics, suggesting a session length of around 7-9 hours. The third quote shows a player's commitment to completing all campaigns, implying a significant investment in game completion. The fourth quote mentions multiple 3-hour sessions, indicating a typical session length.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a steep initial learning curve and tedious early gameplay, but it becomes enjoyable once players get past the tutorial and start playing multiplayer.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Multiplayer mode
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Difficult unit management; Tedious resource collection; Challenging AI behavior; Dull and janky combat; Bugs and flaws
  - Unlock drivers: Engaging in multiplayer mode; Overcoming the initial learning curve
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Familiarity with classic RTS games; Patience to overcome initial tedium
- Player Archetypes:
  - Nostalgic Veteran (sale)
    - Motivation: Reliving past experiences and nostalgia.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys both single-player campaigns and multiplayer matches, often playing for the emotional connection to the past.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Veteran player; Nostalgic gamer
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Age of Empires III
  - Curious Newcomer (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Exploring a classic game series and learning new gameplay mechanics.
    - Playstyle: Tends to play single-player campaigns to learn the game, occasionally venturing into multiplayer matches.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: New player; RTS beginner
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Age of Empires IV
  - Critical Comparer (no buy)
    - Motivation: Seeking a balanced and polished gaming experience.
    - Playstyle: Prefers games with well-balanced mechanics and may play multiplayer to test strategies and compare with other games.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: Critical gamer; Strategy enthusiast
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Age of Empires IV
  - Multiplayer Enthusiast (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoying multiplayer matches with friends and other players.
    - Playstyle: Focuses on multiplayer matches, both competitive and cooperative, often playing with friends.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Multiplayer fan; Competitive player
    - Reference games: Age of Empires II; Age of Empires III


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- High-quality graphics and visuals (weight 0.47): The game features polished, high-definition graphics that are visually pleasing and realistic. Many players appreciate the vibrant and improved graphics, which enhance the overall visual experience.
- Fun and entertaining gameplay (weight 0.32): The game is described as extremely fun, entertaining, and addictive. Players find the gameplay enjoyable and timeless, contributing to a highly recommended experience.
- Excellent remaster of a classic (weight 0.27): The game is praised as a great remaster of a classic, with players appreciating the faithful reworking and preservation of the original game's essence. It is seen as a masterful remasterization that brings back the magic of the original.
- Improved game mechanics and interface (weight 0.2): The game includes various mechanical improvements and interface enhancements. Players enjoy the improved mechanics, pathfinding, and overall usability of the interface.
- Enhanced sound and music (weight 0.2): The game features updated sound effects, enhanced voice acting, and a re-orchestrated soundtrack. Players appreciate the improved audio quality and the thoughtfully updated sound design.
- Evokes nostalgia and memories (weight 0.18): The game brings back childhood memories and nostalgic feelings for many players. It retains the old feeling and revives the magic of the original, making it a nostalgic experience.
- Multiplayer options available (weight 0.09): The game includes multiplayer options, allowing players to enjoy online multiplayer experiences. This feature enhances the game's replayability and social aspects.
- Historical and educational value (weight 0.08): The game offers historical significance and educational value, providing players with historical context and educational content about history.
- Real-time strategy gameplay (weight 0.07): The game features real-time strategy gameplay, introducing players to the RTS genre. It is part of one of the best real-time strategy sagas.
- Easy to learn and play (weight 0.07): The game is easy to get into and perfect for beginners. It is described as easy to understand and play, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
- High replayability with variety (weight 0.07): The game offers high replayability with various historical scenarios, random maps, and a variety of civilizations. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Common complaints:
- Pathfinding issues persist (weight 0.37): Players consistently report problems with unit pathfinding, including units getting stuck, choosing random paths, and general navigation issues. This is a significant problem affecting gameplay and unit management.
- AI needs improvement (weight 0.28): The AI is criticized for being clumsy, lacking intelligence, and behaving poorly. This includes issues with pathfinding and general AI behavior.
- Lack of military formations (weight 0.12): Players note the absence of military formations and unique troop organization, which affects strategic gameplay and unit management.
- Slow game pace (weight 0.12): The game's pace is described as slow, with matches lasting up to 6 hours. This can feel clunky and outdated compared to more contemporary fast-paced strategy games.
- Presence of bugs (weight 0.11): Players have encountered various bugs, including new and old bugs that remain unresolved. This affects the overall stability and enjoyment of the game.
- Poor performance and controls (weight 0.1): The game is criticized for poor controls, optimization, and performance issues, including high CPU and memory usage.
- Limited civilizations and maps (weight 0.09): The game is criticized for having few civilizations and original maps, with a lack of unique features and non-random maps.
- Game shows its age (weight 0.07): The game is seen as dated in some aspects, showing its age compared to more modern titles. This includes outdated mechanics and features.
- LAN connectivity issues (weight 0.06): There are problems with LAN connectivity, with players reporting that it does not work well or as expected.
- Game is frustrating (weight 0.06): Players find the game too frustrating and not worth the money, with some describing it as annoyingly hard.
- Lack of unique units and buildings (weight 0.06): Players note a lack of unique units, buildings, and tech trees, which affects the diversity and depth of gameplay.

Gameplay feedback:
- Unit movement and pathfinding issues (weight 0.13): Players frequently mention problems with unit movement mechanics, pathfinding, and unit interactions. These issues seem to significantly impact gameplay and unit management.
- AI behavior and difficulty (weight 0.13): Feedback highlights concerns with AI behavior, difficulty levels, and the need for improvements. AI and NPC movement are also areas of focus for players.
- Historical campaigns and battles (weight 0.13): Historical campaigns and epic battles are a significant part of the game. Players enjoy the historical scenarios and the addition of new campaigns and battles.
- Strategy-based gameplay (weight 0.11): The game is noted for its strategy mechanics and real-time strategy elements. Players appreciate the depth and engagement of the strategy-based gameplay.
- Civilization growth and development (weight 0.11): Players enjoy building and growing their civilizations from scratch. The game allows for the development and blooming of civilizations, including new ones like the Hittites and Assyrians.
- Troop control and management (weight 0.08): Players discuss troop control, management, and the organization of troop formations. Troop capabilities are also a topic of interest.
- Engaging and customizable campaigns (weight 0.08): The game offers engaging campaigns and missions. Players appreciate the customization options available for campaigns.
- Strategizing to defeat opponents (weight 0.08): A key aspect of the game involves using strategies to outwit and conquer enemies. Players enjoy the challenge of strategizing against opponents.
- Technology and building upgrades (weight 0.08): Technology and building upgrades are important features. Players focus on developing their technology and upgrading their buildings and armies.
- Variety of game settings (weight 0.08): The game offers a variety of settings, including difficulty levels, game speed options, and different map sizes. Players appreciate the customization options available.
- Historical progression system (weight 0.07): The game features a progression system that spans different historical ages, such as the Stone Age, Tool Age, and Bronze Age. Players appreciate the historical progression and development.
- Multiplayer dynamics and stability (weight 0.06): Multiplayer is a key feature, with players discussing the dynamics and stability of multiplayer gameplay. Ensuring a stable multiplayer experience is important for the community.
- Resource collection mechanics (weight 0.06): Resource collection is a fundamental aspect of the game. Players focus on gathering resources to support their civilization's growth and development.
- Historical setting and background (weight 0.06): The game is set in a historical context, providing background information and scenarios. Players appreciate the historical setting and the depth of historical information provided.
- Different factions and management (weight 0.05): The game features different factions that players can manage. These factions add variety and depth to the gameplay experience.
- Comparison with other strategy games (weight 0.05): Players often compare the game to other titles in the strategy genre, such as Age of Empires 2 and 4, and Command & Conquer. These comparisons highlight the game's unique features and differences.

Performance notes:
- Performance issues reported (weight 0.21): Many players have reported poor CPU performance, optimization issues, and overall bad performance. This includes frequent stuttering, freezing, and FPS drops.
- High-resolution graphics praised (weight 0.13): Players appreciate the enhanced graphics and high-definition visuals, particularly noting the game's performance and appearance in 4K resolution.
- Smooth performance on low-end PCs (weight 0.09): Some players report that the game runs smoothly even on low-end hardware, indicating good optimization for less powerful systems.
- Server and connectivity issues (weight 0.08): There are reports of server issues, technical problems, and connectivity issues affecting the gameplay experience.
- Random crashes reported (weight 0.06): Players have experienced random crashes during gameplay, which disrupts the gaming experience.
- Mac compatibility issues (weight 0.04): The game does not run well on Mac systems, with multiple reports indicating poor performance and compatibility issues.
- Compatibility with GeForce NOW (weight 0.02): The game is compatible with GeForce NOW Cloud Gaming, allowing players to stream the game on various devices.
- Platinum rating on ProtonDB (weight 0.02): The game has a Platinum rating on ProtonDB, indicating excellent compatibility with Linux systems using Proton.
- Works well on Windows 11 (weight 0.02): The game runs well on Windows 11 at 1080p resolution, providing a smooth experience for users of this operating system.
- High memory and CPU usage (weight 0.02): Some players have noted that the game uses a significant amount of memory and CPU, which can affect performance on certain systems.
- Steam Deck recommendation (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for use on the Steam Deck, suggesting good compatibility and performance on this handheld device.
- Blurry graphics on zoom (weight 0.02): Graphics become blurry when the camera is zoomed in, which can detract from the visual experience.
- Campaign progress resets (weight 0.02): There are issues with campaign progress resetting, which can be frustrating for players trying to advance through the game.
- Broken Babylon mission (weight 0.02): The Babylon mission is reported as broken, which can hinder progression and enjoyment of the game.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for RTS fans (weight 0.2): The game is highly recommended for fans of the RTS genre, particularly those who enjoy strategy games and the Age of Empires franchise. It is also suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed strategy experience.
- Nostalgic appeal (weight 0.15): The game is recommended for players who have a deep nostalgia for the original game or the genre. It is particularly appealing to those who played the original and history enthusiasts.
- Alternative games suggested (weight 0.1): Players recommend trying other games like Zero-K, Age of Empires II, or the original game instead of this one.
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.09): The game is considered worth buying when it is on sale, particularly at a significant discount. Some players suggest it is worth the price if purchased on sale.
- Best way to experience Age of Empires (weight 0.06): Some players consider this the best way to experience the first Age of Empires game, making it a must-play for fans of the series.
- Good starting point for new players (weight 0.06): The game is recommended as a starting point for new players in the series due to its chronological position and focus on Ancient Age civilizations.
- Try Return of Rome (weight 0.04): Some players suggest that instead of this game, players should try Return of Rome for a better experience.
- Caution for new players (weight 0.04): New players are advised to be cautious and try the tutorial campaign before continuing with more campaigns.

Other player notes:
- Nonsensical or unclear feedback (weight 0.13): Several clusters contain nonsensical phrases or inside jokes that do not provide clear feedback. These may represent memes, jokes, or references that are not directly constructive.
- Desire for classic graphics/audio (weight 0.03): Players are requesting an option to switch to the original graphics and audio for a more nostalgic experience.
- Request for map reveal feature (weight 0.03): Players are asking for a feature to reveal the entire map, which could help with navigation and strategy.

Emotions:
- Nostalgia (weight 0.33): Players experience nostalgia due to childhood memories associated with the original Age of Empires games. The remastered graphics, improved interface, and classic gameplay modes bring back fond memories of playing the game in their youth, often comparing it to beloved sequels and the original game.
- Frustration (weight 0.23): Players are frustrated by persistent pathfinding issues, unit control problems, and AI behavior. Additionally, game crashes, performance issues on specific platforms, and difficulty spikes contribute to a challenging and often unsatisfying gameplay experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.12): Players feel disappointed due to the lack of significant improvements and persistent bugs from the original game. Issues such as pathfinding problems, AI behavior, and the removal of classic graphics and sounds in the Definitive Edition contribute to this sentiment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.12): Players are satisfied with the improved graphics, refined mechanics, and the overall faithfulness to the original game. The strategic core remains intact, and the game performs well on modern PCs, providing an enjoyable experience despite some flaws.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.04): Players enjoy the game for its engaging campaigns, solid gameplay, and the overall fun factor. The game remains entertaining and competitive, providing a positive experience despite some AI frustrations.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): Players are excited about the addictive gameplay, historical background, and the modern enhancements that bring a classic game to life. The game is described as pure RTS perfection, offering a blend of old-school spirit and modern performance.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Players find joy in the classic gameplay, improved graphics, and remastered soundtrack. The game brings positive experiences and childhood dreams into adult joy, making it entertaining and enjoyable.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Players express anger due to poor game quality, performance issues, and feeling scammed. Multiplayer problems and bad team mechanics further contribute to this negative emotion.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.01): Los jugadores están satisfechos con las mejoras gráficas y de sonido, así como con el nuevo contenido y mecánicas. Las estrategias y campañas históricas, junto con la posibilidad de jugar en equipo, contribuyen a una experiencia positiva.
- Appreciation (weight 0.01): Players appreciate the historical significance and educational value of the game. The improvements in the Definitive Edition engine and the beautiful work done on the game are also highly valued.
- Disappointment (weight 0.01): Los jugadores sienten decepción debido a la falta de mejoras en la inteligencia artificial y tácticas de combate. El juego es percibido como incompleto y abandonado, con la palabra 'definitivo' siendo engañosa.
- Frustration (weight 0.01): Los jugadores experimentan frustración debido a problemas de rendimiento, crashes y misiones rotas. Bugs específicos, como el de los arqueros elefante, también contribuyen a esta emoción negativa.
- Happiness (weight 0): Los jugadores sienten felicidad al poder jugar la edición completa del juego, disfrutando de la experiencia de juego completa y mejorada.}