Info about Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition - Knights of the Mediterranean:

Official game description:
The Knights of the Mediterranean brings a wealth of new content to Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, including the addition of the Italy and Malta Civilizations, the brand new casual friendly Tycoon Game Mode, and the first ever set of Historical Maps, which bring endless replayability with a historical twist.
2 New Civilizations
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**Malta:**  
Guard the Mediterranean against incursions with unique fortifications, don shining armor to fend off attacks, and shell opponents from afar with Fixed Guns. Fire Throwers and greatswords win battles, but the superior logistics of your Commandery win wars. Luckily, you can have both! Fighting at sea with Order Galleys may wet the gunpowder, but your Arbalesters won’t mind. You can always restock at a Gunpowder Depot, or blow it up when an enemy army marches past!  
**Italy:**  
Unite wealthy merchant republics, duchies, and Papal states while new Settlers flock to your booming empire with every technological breakthrough, and use Architects to construct buildings for free! Invest at the Lombard to optimize your economy and turn a quick profit, or construct a towering Basilica and send Papal soldiers to strengthen and complement your army. Use shielded Pavisiers to lure opponents into an ambush of Bersaglieri, or let Elmetti lower their lances and carry the day with a thundering charge!
Brand New Tycoon Game Mode
--------------------------
**Tycoon:**  
Tycoon is a brand new, casual friendly game mode that puts the focus on economic superiority over military domination. Free from the pressure of head-to-head play, this new mode allows players to explore and strengthen economic strategies that they can then leverage in the other game modes throughout Age of Empires III: Definitive Editon.
First-ever Historical Maps
--------------------------
**Historical Maps:**  
Historical Maps are a new variation of Random Maps. Randomly generated for endless replayability, these 8 new maps dive into history with Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition with unique objectives for each map, based on some of the most memorable conflicts on the European continent.  
*   The Italian Wars  
*   Eighty Years' War  
*   The Deluge  
*   Great Turkish War  
*   Great Northern War  
*   Napoleonic Wars  
*   Russo-Turkish Wars  
*   The Thiry Years’ War (MP Exclusive Diplomacy Mode Map)

Release date: May 26, 2022

Categories: Real-time Strategy, Historical Simulation, Multiple Victory Conditions, Single-player, Multiplayer, Diplomacy, Base Building, Faction-based Campaigns

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair / Traditional DLC; summary: The available reviews discuss paid DLC expansions, mainly Knights of the Mediterranean and The African Royals. Feedback focuses on whether the DLC is worth its price, comparative value between expansions, and a paid game mode. There is no evidence of real-money gacha, loot boxes, pay-to-win, or in-game currency stores. Because the monetization discussed is traditional DLC, the score remains in the fair range.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: All usable signals are qualitative value statements tied to the base 'DE' game rather than to shop-specific DLC or MTX pricing. Reviewers repeatedly frame the content as good value but stress that the sweet spot is a discounted price rather than full asking price. For example, one reviewer explicitly says the content is worth it 'especially discounted if you already enjoy the base DE game,' and Portuguese-language reviewers say it is 'worth it when on sale' and 'for the price, it's worth it.' This pattern suggests the community sees full-price value as acceptable but not compelling, and treats a moderate discount as the fair point. Anchoring on those discount-preferring sentiments for a Definitive Edition base game, a fair base-game price band of roughly $10-$20 is supported, with the lower end matching the frequent 'wait for a sale' sentiment and the upper end matching reviewers who simply say it is 'well worth the price.'
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The first quote describes open-ended added enjoyment hours but gives no numeric duration, so it cannot support a specific playtime metric. The second quote indicates replayability and content, especially for single player, but again does not report an hour count for completion, session length, or endgame. The third and fourth quotes confirm there is no new campaign, so storyCompletion is unsupported. No review provides a concrete number of hours for gameCompletion, storyCompletion, sessionLength, or endgame.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Reviews describe the DLC as accessible and fun without a steep RTS learning curve, with maps and modes appealing to both singleplayer and multiplayer. No review provides a time-based account of when fun begins, and technical issues with DLC recognition create friction for some.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Purchased DLC not appearing in game; Multiplayer-oriented content for players uninterested in multiplayer; New Tycoon mode described as average
  - Unlock drivers: N/A
  - Conditions: Interest in multiplayer content; Preference for singleplayer versus multiplayer; Working DLC installation and recognition; Expectation of new story missions; Interest in new civilizations and maps; Tolerance for the Tycoon mode
- Player Archetypes:
  - Competitive Multiplayer Strategist (buy)
    - Motivation: To compete in ranked multiplayer matches and master new civilizations for tactical advantage.
    - Playstyle: Focuses on ranked PvP, diplomacy mode, and optimizing civilization strengths for competitive play.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: AoE 1; AoE 2
  - Solo Campaign Purist (sale)
    - Motivation: To enjoy single-player campaigns, historical battles, and solo skirmish content without competitive multiplayer.
    - Playstyle: Plays exclusively single-player, focusing on campaigns, historical maps, and skirmishes against AI.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: single player; exclusively single player
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Roleplay & Thematic Skirmisher (buy)
    - Motivation: To immerse in historical fantasy and roleplay scenarios with defensive forts and themed factions.
    - Playstyle: Engages in role-playing skirmishes, builds defensive fortifications, and enjoys thematic units and maps.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: roleplay
    - Reference games: Assassin's Creed
  - Franchise Veteran & Content Evaluator (buy)
    - Motivation: To support the game's revival and assess the DLC's value against past content and mods.
    - Playstyle: Plays both single and multiplayer, evaluates new civilizations, maps, and modes for freshness and value.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: AoE3 fan; veteran player
    - Reference games: Mediterranean DLC; Napoleonic era mod


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:
- DLC praised as excellent (weight 0.71): Reviewers consider this DLC the best or one of the best for Age of Empires III, with high praise for its overall quality, scope, and value. It met and exceeded expectations.
- Maltese are defensive civilization (weight 0.48): Maltese excels at defense with the best fortifications, defensive towers, and outposts. Their guards and unique infantry gain buffs when near friendly buildings, and barracks can heal units.
- Adds two new civilizations (weight 0.43): The DLC introduces two new European civilizations, Italy and Malta, each with unique mechanics and home cities. This is a major selling point.
- New maps and historical battles (weight 0.35): Includes several new European maps and historical battles, such as the Turko-Russian and Napoleonic wars. The maps are well designed and add to the map roster.
- Tycoon mode adds variety (weight 0.3): A new economic-focused game mode called Tycoon is introduced, providing a relaxed, competitive economy race. It is seen as a fun and fresh addition.
- Both civilizations fun and unique (weight 0.3): The two new civilizations, Italy and Malta, are considered fun, unique, and well-designed. They offer distinct gameplay experiences.
- Italian architect unique mechanic (weight 0.17): Italian architects can construct buildings for free but at a slower pace, or can accelerate construction with resources. This provides a unique economic advantage.
- Maltese commandery teleportation ability (weight 0.17): Maltese commanderies can train cavalry and teleport units between them instantly, with a cooldown. This offers strategic mobility.
- Great value for money (weight 0.17): Reviewers find the DLC well worth the price, especially when discounted. It offers a lot of content for the cost.
- Italians excel in Tycoon mode (weight 0.17): Italians are optimized for the Tycoon mode and are considered the stronger civilization in that context. They are also described as amazing to play as.

Common complaints:
- DLC Lacks New Campaigns (weight 0.62): Multiple reviewers note that the DLC does not include any new single-player campaigns, only historical battles and maps. This is a major disappointment for those expecting narrative content like previous expansions.
- DLC Purchase Not Received (weight 0.47): Several users report technical issues where the DLC appears in their library or store but does not download or unlock in-game. This prevents them from accessing any new content.
- Malta Civilization Feels Unpolished (weight 0.39): Reviewers criticize the Maltese civilization as feeling lazy or half-done, with recycled assets from the campaign and a lack of unique units. Key buildings and units are copy-pasted, reducing the sense of novelty.
- Poor Single-Player Content (weight 0.35): Many reviewers feel the DLC offers little for single-player fans, with no campaigns and only skirmish or multiplayer options. Historical maps are seen as insufficient replacements for proper battles.
- Historical Battles and Maps Lacking (weight 0.34): Feedback indicates a shortage of historical battles and that maps are not true historical battles but multiplayer maps with gimmicks. Some maps are locked to multiplayer or have asymmetrical advantages.
- Balance Concerns in Multiplayer (weight 0.34): Players question the balance of new civilizations and units, citing overpowered units like Maltese fire throwers and royal house natives. Some also find maps unbalanced for competitive play.
- Italian Civilization Overly Complex (weight 0.33): The Italian civilization requires heavy micromanagement and careful planning, making it harder to play effectively. Its units unlock late, and some find it blends elements from other civilizations.
- Malta Civilization Underpowered (weight 0.33): Malta is seen as weak in competitive play, with economy issues and reliance on the Knights rather than its own strengths. It lacks good cavalry and has population-heavy unique units.
- Historical Representation Criticized (weight 0.31): Reviewers question the inclusion of Italians and Maltese over major empires, and note historical inaccuracies like misnamed buildings. Portuguese representation is also seen as lacking.
- Tycoon Mode Disappoints (weight 0.29): The Tycoon game mode is described as average, not fun, and plagued by issues like continuous health loss. Many see it as a time-waster for challenges rather than an enjoyable addition.
- Bugs and Glitches Reported (weight 0.29): Various bugs are mentioned, including regicide mode issues, invisible buildings, and achievement glitches. These issues detract from the overall experience.
- AI Allies Are Unhelpful (weight 0.27): Players complain that AI allies often leave or surrender prematurely, do not counterattack, and fail to support in battles. This makes team games frustrating and unbalanced.
- New Civilizations Feel Bland (weight 0.25): Both Malta and Italy are criticized for being bland and lacking uniqueness, with Malta feeling like a mod and Italy resembling other civilizations. Their playstyles are seen as situational.
- Malta Unit and Building Flaws (weight 0.24): Specific issues include the mortar attack not working, Sentinel units taking too much population, and missing unique church model. These make the civilization less enjoyable.
- Price Too High for Content (weight 0.22): Reviewers compare the DLC unfavorably to previous expansions, noting it costs more while offering less content. Many feel it is not worth the price, especially for what they perceive as mod-level additions.
- Italian Unit Upgrade Problems (weight 0.2): Italian Pavisiers remain weak even with cards, and upgrade cards often boost rarely used units. This limits their late-game effectiveness.
- Grindy and Disgusting Achievements (weight 0.16): Achievements are described as grindy and disgusting, with unclear requirements. This adds to player frustration.
- Visual and UI Complaints (weight 0.16): Ugly circles around units cause eye strain, and some maps are unoptimized. These visual issues detract from the experience.
- Translation and Localization Issues (weight 0.12): Poor Chinese translation and inaccurate terminology in achievements are noted. This affects the game's accessibility and polish for non-English players.
- Optimization and Performance Issues (weight 0.12): Base game optimization is poor, and some maps cause frame drops. This affects the overall gameplay smoothness.

Gameplay feedback:
- Two new civilizations added (weight 0.86): The DLC introduces the Italian and Maltese civilizations, available for historical battles and skirmishes. These factions have distinct units and playstyles.
- New Tycoon game mode (weight 0.64): A new economic-focused mode called Tycoon allows players to build economies and compete for economic victory points. It emphasizes peaceful economic development and efficiency.
- Numerous new maps added (weight 0.59): The DLC adds 30 new European maps for skirmishes and 7 objective-based historical maps. These maps are designed for multiplayer and ranked play.
- Maltese unique units and defense (weight 0.59): Malta has defensive-focused units like sentinels and flamethrowers, and structures such as forts and fixed cannons. Their infantry gain buffs near allied buildings.
- Historical maps with objectives (weight 0.51): Historical maps are scenario-style multiplayer maps with unique victory conditions, such as capturing trade routes or destroying fortresses. They often assign attacker and defender roles.
- Italy's free building architect (weight 0.39): Italy's civilization features an Architect unit that can construct buildings for free but at a much slower speed. This unique mechanic alters build order strategies.
- Italian unique units and tech (weight 0.3): Italy fields Pavisiers, musketeers, and Papal Guards, and has buildings like the Lombard for resource exchange. Their units and technologies reflect historical Italian states.
- Royal Houses alliance system (weight 0.13): Royal Houses provide unique units and technologies for each alliance, functioning similarly to native Europeans but with distinctive passive abilities.
- Naval trade routes on maps (weight 0.12): New maps introduce naval trade routes, adding economic and strategic options for players.

Performance notes:
- Poor base game optimization (weight 0.18): The base game suffers from poor optimization, as indicated by low frame rates on recommended hardware and frame drops on certain maps. This affects overall performance and playability.
- Installation and launch issues (weight 0.13): Players report that the game does not download properly or fails to launch, preventing access to the game. These issues block gameplay entirely.
- Visual bug with special buildings (weight 0.07): Special buildings are not rendered correctly and appear as black shadows, which detracts from the visual experience. This is a specific graphical glitch.

Recommendations:
- Good Value for Money (weight 0.46): Reviewers agree the DLC is worth its price, with many stating it offers good value. Some emphasize it's especially worthwhile when discounted.
- Mixed Opinions on Purchase (weight 0.33): Some reviewers do not recommend buying this DLC, citing dissatisfaction or lack of interest. Others recommend it only under certain conditions, such as during a sale.
- Enjoyment for Series Fans (weight 0.27): Fans of the Age of Empires series highly recommend this DLC. They consider it a must-have for die-hard fans and those who love the game.
- Recommended for All Players (weight 0.27): Reviewers suggest the DLC to anyone who enjoys Age of Empires, including newcomers. It is seen as a great addition that revitalizes the game.
- Comparison to African Royals (weight 0.22): Several reviewers compare this DLC to African Royals, with some preferring African Royals. Others say this DLC is what players wanted African Royals to be.
- Suitable for Single Player (weight 0.22): Reviewers highlight that the DLC is recommended for solo play as well as multiplayer. It offers content enjoyable for single-player enthusiasts.
- New Civilizations and Maps (weight 0.22): The DLC introduces two new civilizations with immense gameplay possibilities and intense maps. Reviewers enjoy the fresh experiences they bring.
- Great for Multiplayer and Friends (weight 0.13): Reviewers recommend the DLC for playing with friends in PvE or PvP on historical maps. It adds a friendly economy-focused mode called Tycoon.
- Detailed and Immersive Experience (weight 0.08): The DLC is praised for its attention to detail, making it a must-buy for those who appreciate in-game immersion. It adds depth to the overall experience.

Other player notes:
- DLC adds civilizations and maps (weight 0.8): The expansion introduces two new civilizations (Italy and Malta) along with many European and historical maps. It also includes a new game mode and additional gameplay mechanics.
- High value for Age of Empires III (weight 0.43): The DLC is frequently described as the best or most sincere expansion for Age of Empires III, offering extensive content that surpasses previous DLCs. It is considered a must-buy for fans of the series.
- Lack of campaigns criticized (weight 0.43): Many reviewers note that the DLC does not include a dedicated campaign or historical battles, which is seen as a missed opportunity given the series' tradition. This absence is compared unfavorably to previous expansions like African Royals that included historical battles.
- Requests for future civilizations (weight 0.36): Reviewers express interest in seeing civilizations such as Korea, Persia, Austria, Brazil, and others added in future updates. These requests highlight a desire for more historical representation.
- Positive comparison to other titles (weight 0.34): Reviewers compare the DLC favorably to Age of Empires IV, stating it is much better, and to Age of Empires II expansions, which are seen as less substantial. The DLC is also praised for its thoughtful level design and story.
- Compared to other Age titles (weight 0.33): Reviewers compare this DLC to expansions from Age of Mythology and Age of Empires II, noting differences in content and value. Some feel this DLC falls short in certain areas.
- Comparison to African Royals (weight 0.26): Reviewers often compare this DLC to African Royals, with some preferring African Royals due to its historical battles and more unique civilizations. Others find this DLC's civilizations less distinctive.
- Italy and Malta finally added (weight 0.26): Italy was planned as a civilization in the original Age of Empires III but was cut, so its addition is celebrated by fans. Malta is also seen as a nod to the Knights of Malta from the original campaign.
- Community growth and support (weight 0.24): The DLC is credited with growing the Age of Empires III community and keeping the game alive with ongoing support. Reviewers hope the series remains evergreen.
- New European maps introduced (weight 0.22): The expansion adds a large number of maps set in Europe, marking the first time such maps are included in the game. These maps are available for free and do not require the DLC.
- Civilizations chosen questioned (weight 0.21): The inclusion of Italy and Malta as civilizations is questioned by some, as they were not historically expanding powers. Others note that major empires like Austria-Hungary and Persia are missing.
- Historical Maps replace battles (weight 0.17): Instead of the expected historical battles, the DLC introduces historical maps, with one map playable only in multiplayer. Reviewers express disappointment that these maps are not full scenarios.
- Price considered high by some (weight 0.17): Some reviewers feel the price is too high for the content offered, especially compared to other expansions. Others consider it good value compared to typical publisher practices.
- Malta units reuse assets (weight 0.16): The Maltese civilization reuses assets from the Morgan Black campaign, including units like the Hospitaller and unique buildings. Some reviewers criticize this as lazy design.
- No future DLC planned (weight 0.16): The developers have stated that no further DLC is planned for the game, which disappoints some players who were hoping for more content. However, free updates and community support continue.
- Free content and updates included (weight 0.13): Some new content, such as the 30 new maps, was added as a free update for all players, not just DLC owners. This is seen as a generous move by the developers.
- Multiplayer focus noted (weight 0.12): The DLC is seen as more oriented toward multiplayer, with features like diplomacy and the Magnate game mode encouraging player interaction. This focus is appreciated by some but may leave single-player fans wanting.
- Card names tied to history (weight 0.07): The card names in the DLC relate directly to historical events of each civilization, adding a layer of historical flavor. This attention to detail is appreciated by history enthusiasts.
- Resemblance to Napoleonic Era mod (weight 0.06): Reviewers note that the DLC shares many similarities with the popular Napoleonic Era mod, suggesting it draws inspiration from community content. This is seen as a positive by some.
- Achievements included (weight 0.06): The DLC includes new achievements for players to unlock, adding replay value and goals. This is a standard feature that is appreciated.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.16): Players are disappointed because the DLC lacks new campaigns and historical battles, with many expecting dedicated single-player content like a Siege of Malta map or a full campaign for the new factions. Additional frustrations include bugs in new modes, untranslated text, asset reuse that makes Malta feel like a mod, and balance issues with new civilizations.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.13): Satisfaction stems from the DLC delivering two detailed new civilizations, Italy and Malta, along with a wealth of content including 37 new maps, new modes, and new units. Players find the civilizations well-designed and worth the price, with many praising the DLC as the best for Age of Empires III.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.09): Enthusiasm is driven by the expansion adding depth, variety, and fresh mechanics, including well-made asymmetric civilizations and immersive new historical campaigns. The large amount of new content, especially maps and home cities, transforms the game and is highly recommended to new players.
- Frustration (weight 0.08): Frustration arises from technical issues such as the DLC not downloading or being inaccessible after purchase, poor optimization, and unhelpful AI allies. Players also cite perceived half-assed content, overpowered units like Malta's fire throwers, and unmet promises such as eight historical maps when only seven are available.
- Confusion (weight 0.06): Confusion is caused by technical problems where purchased DLC does not appear in the game or cannot be installed, as well as unclear instructions for modes like Tycoon and the Trieste mission challenge. Some players are also puzzled by historical inconsistencies, such as building names not matching regions.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.06): Enjoyment comes from playing the unique new civilizations, especially Italy with its economy and unique units, and experiencing new maps and historical battles like the Turko-Russian and Napoleonic wars. The DLC adds countless hours of fun, with plenty of challenge and variety without a steep learning curve.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): Excitement is fueled by epic gameplay featuring manned walls and knights, discovering Malta's powerful and unique mechanics, and the long-awaited addition of Italians. New maps, civilizations, and game modes make the game immensely better, with a massive amount of new content and historical detail.
- Appreciation (weight 0.04): Appreciation focuses on the well-made new maps, treasure guardians, royal houses, mercenaries, and native units, as well as the amazing wall update. Players value the DLC's delivery of European content that African Royals did not provide, and the beauty of the new maps.
- Admiration (weight 0.03): Admiration is expressed for the detailed and powerful Maltese and Italian units and mechanics, the fascinating Templar aesthetic of Maltese units, and the level of detail given to all new European elements. The DLC is seen as close to a full expansion with varied civilizations and maps.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Amusement comes from hilarious mechanics such as using Malta's Depot to destroy allied buildings, witnessing troops getting obliterated by stationary cannons on historical maps, and quirky details like the Maltese pet sheep and the explorer installing a giant cannon.
- Love (weight 0.03): Love is directed at the DLC overall, including its content and design, the wild and fun design of the Maltese civilization, and the addition of new Royal Houses, European maps, Historical Maps, and new civilizations.
- Fun (weight 0.03): Fun is had by playing both new factions with their unique playstyles, competing in Tycoon mode for the best economy, and experiencing historical maps with objective-based gameplay. The Maltese civilization's turtling playstyle and powerful units are particularly enjoyable.
- Hope (weight 0.02): Hope is expressed through a desire for more DLC and future content like this, and optimism that Age of Empires remains popular despite the decline of RTS games.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise stems from the addition of medieval factions that differ from other expansions, Tycoon mode being enjoyable despite expectations of boredom, and the DLC surprising the reviewer in many aspects.
- Preference (weight 0.01): Preference is shown for Malta over Italians offensively, while also liking Italy's economy potential and Malta's turtle design.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Anger is caused by feeling robbed and deceived because the DLC added nothing of substance, and by AI allies calling for surrender and not contributing in a 3v3 match.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is found in playing the new civilization and European maps, as well as enjoying the new economic mode.
- Delight (weight 0.01): Delight comes from watching Maltese powerful infantry in action and playing the new European maps and Historical maps.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation is about waiting to see what the future brings for the game and looking forward to the next civilization.
- Worry (weight 0.01): Worry is centered on Microsoft seemingly overexploiting the franchise with price increases and rushed DLC.}