Info about Age of Mythology: Retold - Immortal Pillars:

Official game description:
NOTE: Owners of the Age of Mythology: Retold Premium Edition will receive this product as part of the edition's package.   
Unleash the power of Chinese mythology in _Age of Mythology: Retold’s_ first expansion, _Immortal Pillars_. Discover a new pantheon of gods, legendary myth units, and awe-inspiring god powers in an epic campaign inspired by ancient legends. 
Summon the fierce goddess Nüwa, command Chiyou, the bull-headed god of war, and call upon Nüba, the relentless bringer of drought. Control the skies with Yinglong, the mighty flying rain dragon, and experience so much more. 
If you’re looking for the best value and want to have the most expansive experience in Age of Mythology: Retold, unlock incredible value with the Age of Mythology: Retold Premium Edition! As a proud owner, you’ll automatically receive this exciting expansion as part of your exclusive package—no extra cost, no extra steps. It's all yours, included in the Age of Mythology: Retold Premium Edition of the game that keeps on giving!

Release date: Mar 4, 2025

Categories: Real-time Strategy, Chinese Mythology Theme, Campaign, Multiple Civilizations and Pantheons, Myth Units, Base Building, Multiplayer, God Powers

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair / Traditional Paid Expansions; summary: The reviewed feedback concerns traditional expansion DLC for Age of Mythology: Retold, focusing on whether individual DLCs are worth their price and whether the Premium Edition bundle offers better value. No review describes real-money gacha, loot boxes, currency obfuscation, battle passes, paid power, or a cash shop. One review explicitly states the DLC is 'not a pay to win,' which is evidence against predatory monetization. The remaining complaints are about DLC pricing, balance, and campaign bugs, none of which are microtransaction evidence.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $20.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The provided reviews consistently show that the community is highly price-sensitive and does not consider the full asking price to be fair. Multiple reviewers advise waiting for a sale, and some state the content is not worth the price at full cost. This suggests the fair base-game price should be in the mid-range rather than premium, roughly $20 to $30. Confidence is low because the evidence is indirect and reflects general price sensitivity rather than direct base-game pricing feedback.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 5.0h
  - Story completion: 5.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The first quote gives a concrete campaign structure: 9 missions at roughly 25–40 minutes each, which implies a campaign completion time of about 3.75–6 hours. The second quote supports that the campaign is relatively short, and the third says the DLC adds only a few more hours, aligning with a practical completion estimate around 5 hours. Because the campaign is the DLC's main completable content, this estimate is used for both gameCompletion and storyCompletion. There is no reliable evidence for a typical session length or a separate endgame duration, so those metrics are null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Mixed reports show some immediate fun from combat and new mechanics, but the DLC campaign often starts repetitive or generic and is said to improve later; multiplayer enjoyment depends on interest and future balance patches. The anchor is later campaign missions, with no precise timing reported.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Later campaign missions
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Repetitive first campaign missions; Generic or boring campaign story and presentation; New gods in multiplayer reported as unbalanced; Campaign lacks historical and mythological depth for some players; Chinese faction units perceived as generic or lame by some
  - Unlock drivers: Later campaign missions improve after the repetitive opening; New mechanics such as god powers, myth units, upgrades, and tech are interesting and innovative; The Chinese faction feels distinctive and adds creative units and variety; Balancing patches for new gods are considered likely; Combat system remains addictive with more balanced and dynamic tweaks
  - Conditions: Enjoyment depends on liking multiplayer or wanting to farm achievements; Multiplayer balance may affect enjoyment until patches arrive; Tolerance for repetitive early campaign missions affects when fun begins; Interest in the Chinese faction's mechanics and units; Expectations for historical or mythological education from the campaign
- Player Archetypes:
  - Competitive PvP Balance Watcher (buy)
    - Motivation: To test, master, and assess the new faction in multiplayer meta and competitive balance.
    - Playstyle: Plays PvP matches, studies build orders and meta, and gives balance feedback.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Single-Player Campaign Story Seeker (sale)
    - Motivation: To experience and evaluate a new single-player story campaign and its value.
    - Playstyle: Plays campaign missions and story content, often judging length, pacing, and cutscenes.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Franchise Loyalist & Completionist (buy)
    - Motivation: To support the franchise, keep the game alive with content, and complete achievements.
    - Playstyle: Plays PvE and long-term content, pursues achievements, and follows franchise updates.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Casual Faction Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: To have casual fun with a new faction's mechanics and myth units.
    - Playstyle: Casual single-player or skirmish play, exploring the new faction without competitive PvP focus.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


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:
- Enjoyable Campaign Experience (weight 0.34): Many reviewers find the campaign enjoyable, strong, and engaging, with fluid presentation and good overall quality. It is frequently described as fun and well-made.
- Chinese Civilization Impresses (weight 0.34): The Chinese civilization is widely regarded as interesting, successful, and likable, with fun mechanics that enhance gameplay. Its design and execution receive consistent praise.
- Solid DLC Overall (weight 0.33): The DLC is generally seen as nice, solid, and well done, with many considering it a good addition. It meets or exceeds expectations for quality.
- Fun New Gods and Powers (weight 0.31): New gods, myth units, and god powers are frequently described as fun, powerful, and featuring interesting mechanics. These additions are a highlight for many players.
- Original and Interesting Mechanics (weight 0.15): The DLC introduces many original and interesting mechanics that add depth to gameplay. Players appreciate the new strategic options and fresh experiences.
- Better Than Tale of the Dragon (weight 0.15): Reviewers consistently note that this expansion is much better than the previous Tale of the Dragon DLC from the Extended Edition. It is seen as a significant improvement.
- Compelling Story and Characters (weight 0.13): The story and characters are often praised as compelling and great, adding depth to the overall experience. This narrative strength contributes to positive reception.
- Well-Designed Units (weight 0.13): Units are visually well developed, cool, and original, with unique designs that appeal to players. Their quality adds to the overall enjoyment.
- New Units Add Value (weight 0.09): The introduction of new units is highly appreciated, with many describing them as awesome and a great addition to the game. They bring fresh gameplay options.
- Beautiful Myth Units (weight 0.09): Myth units are often praised for their visual design, being described as beautiful and cool. They stand out as some of the best in the game.
- Great Expansion Addition (weight 0.09): The expansion is considered a great addition to the game, with many calling it an excellent first expansion. It enhances the overall experience.
- Diverse and Challenging Missions (weight 0.06): Missions are noted for being diverse, varied, and challenging, providing engaging gameplay throughout the campaign. This variety keeps the experience fresh.

Common complaints:
- Mediocre Campaign Experience (weight 0.43): The campaign is widely regarded as below average, forgettable, and lacking standout moments. Many reviewers describe it as mediocre or merely okay, with little that feels memorable or special.
- Short Campaign Length (weight 0.36): The campaign is repeatedly criticized for being too short, with only 9 missions or chapters. This rushed length leaves players wanting more and is seen as insufficient for the price.
- Poor Voice Acting (weight 0.19): Voice acting is frequently described as terrible, atrocious, or subpar, with some players finding it so bad it detracts from the experience. This issue is noted in both the campaign and the base game.
- Weak Story And Characters (weight 0.15): The story is often called uninteresting, predictable, and lacking the charisma of the original Age of Mythology. Characters are seen as forgettable and poorly fleshed out.
- Underwhelming DLC Value (weight 0.13): The DLC is perceived as cheaply made and not worth the price, with many feeling it is limited and nothing spectacular. Reviewers express dissatisfaction with its overall quality and content.
- Units Getting Stuck (weight 0.11): A common bug causes units to get stuck in trees, terrain, buildings, or between objects. This constant issue disrupts gameplay and frustrates players.
- Challenging And Buggy Campaign (weight 0.08): The campaign is described as very hard to play, with annoying bugs making it more difficult. Some find it challenging in a negative way due to these issues.
- Numerous Bugs (weight 0.06): Many bugs are reported throughout the game, detracting from the overall experience. These issues range from minor annoyances to game-breaking problems.
- Pricing Concerns (weight 0.06): Some reviewers find the asking price to be too high for the amount and quality of content offered. This sentiment often ties into the short campaign and limited DLC.
- Chinese Faction Underpowered (weight 0.06): The Chinese faction is considered underpowered without sufficient numerical compensation. This imbalance affects gameplay for those using the faction.

Gameplay feedback:
- Campaign with missions (weight 0.4): Many reviews mention a campaign mode with a specific number of missions, often nine. Clusters 4, 6, 8, 9, 18, and 20 provide details on the campaign structure.
- Chinese faction added (weight 0.37): Multiple reviews highlight the addition of a Chinese pantheon or faction. Clusters 1 and 2 both describe this feature with new gods, units, and mechanics.
- New gods and powers (weight 0.26): The DLC introduces new gods and god powers. Clusters 3, 13, and 27 mention these additions for multiplayer and single-player.
- Chinese deities and mythology (weight 0.24): The Chinese faction features Chinese deities and mythology. Clusters 16 and 1 highlight the inclusion of Chinese mythology with gods and units.
- Myth units included (weight 0.18): The game and DLC include myth units with unique abilities. Clusters 5 and 22 specifically mention mythical units with powers.
- New civilizations added (weight 0.16): Several clusters note the addition of new civilizations beyond the Chinese faction. Clusters 7 and 12 mention new civilizations with unique gods and units.
- Timed campaign missions (weight 0.16): Some campaign missions have time limits. Clusters 10 and 6 mention timed missions in the campaign.
- Chinese faction unique mechanics (weight 0.11): The Chinese faction has unique mechanics, including favor generation and quadrupedal myth units. Clusters 22 and 29 describe these features.
- RTS with modern design (weight 0.08): The game is an RTS incorporating modern design elements. Cluster 14 describes it as an RTS with gods and civilizations.
- New faction with buildings (weight 0.06): The Chinese faction introduces new buildings and heroes. Cluster 23 details units, buildings, heroes, and myth units.
- Major gods and powers (weight 0.06): The civilization has major gods and god powers. Cluster 30 describes these elements.
- DLC includes maps and units (weight 0.06): The DLC adds new maps and units. Cluster 21 mentions these additions.
- Multiple difficulty settings (weight 0.06): The game offers multiple difficulty settings, including hard mode. Cluster 24 mentions this.
- Ladder and multiplayer mode (weight 0.06): A ladder or multiplayer mode is available. Cluster 26 mentions this feature.
- Chinese playable in skirmish (weight 0.06): The Chinese civilization is playable in skirmish mode. Cluster 28 confirms this.
- Ludicrous difficulty available (weight 0.05): A ludicrous difficulty setting is present. Cluster 17 notes its availability.
- Faction and campaign separate (weight 0.05): Factions and campaign are separate components. Cluster 19 indicates they are distinct.
- Soldiers have defined roles (weight 0.05): Human soldiers have defined roles. Cluster 25 notes normal soldiers with specific roles.

Performance notes:
- Solid performance in large games (weight 0.04): Players experience solid performance even in large-scale matches, with no significant slowdowns. This positive feedback comes from Cluster 5.
- Late game performance drops (weight 0.04): As matches progress into the late game, performance starts to drop, causing lag and reduced responsiveness. This is described in Cluster 6.
- Tale of the Dragon fixed (weight 0.04): The Extended Edition resolves problems from the Tale of the Dragon expansion, improving the overall experience. This feedback is from Cluster 2.
- Camera locking up (weight 0.04): Players report the camera frequently locks up during gameplay, disrupting control and immersion. This issue appears in Cluster 1.
- Slow texture loading (weight 0.04): Textures load slowly, causing visual pop-in and delays during gameplay. This issue is noted in Cluster 4.
- Missing soundtrack (weight 0.04): The soundtrack is missing, with the old one playing instead, which detracts from the intended audio experience. This is noted in Cluster 8.
- Bad anti-aliasing (weight 0.04): The game's anti-aliasing is considered poor, resulting in jagged edges and visual artifacts. This is reported in Cluster 3.
- Ambient sounds cut off (weight 0.04): Ambient sounds cut off abruptly during cutscenes instead of fading out smoothly, breaking immersion. This issue is from Cluster 9.

Recommendations:
- Worth Buying at Full Price (weight 0.23): Many reviewers state the DLC is absolutely worth the money at full price. Positive feedback highlights overall value and satisfaction with the purchase.
- Wait for a Sale (weight 0.21): Numerous reviewers advise waiting for a discount because the DLC is overpriced at $20. They recommend buying only at 50% off or less.
- Recommend for Franchise Fans (weight 0.15): Fans of Age of Mythology highly recommend this DLC. It is considered a must-buy for those already invested in the series.
- Campaign Underwhelming (weight 0.15): The campaign is often described as pleasant but not exceptional. Some recommend skipping cutscenes or avoiding purchase if only interested in story.
- Chinese Faction Fun (weight 0.14): The new Chinese civilization is praised as extremely fun and a great addition. Unique units and interesting gameplay make the DLC worthwhile for many.
- Premium Edition Better Value (weight 0.13): Reviewers suggest purchasing the Premium Edition to get both this DLC and the Japanese expansion at a bundled discount. It offers better overall value.
- Only for Specific Interests (weight 0.13): Purchase is advised only if you have a special interest in Asian mythology or already own all other DLCs. Otherwise, it may not be essential.
- Good for New Content (weight 0.12): Players seeking additional content find the DLC satisfying. It extends gameplay and offers new experiences for those wanting more.
- Great for Multiplayer and PvP (weight 0.11): The DLC is highly recommended for players who enjoy online battles and competitive play. New units and god powers enhance multiplayer experience.
- Compare with Japanese DLC (weight 0.11): Reviewers compare this DLC with the Japanese expansion, often recommending the Japanese first for beginners. Some suggest getting both but playing Chinese first.
- High Skill Ceiling Appeal (weight 0.08): The DLC attracts players looking for a challenge and a high skill ceiling. It offers depth for those wanting something different.
- Skip if Not Interested (weight 0.08): Some reviewers advise skipping the DLC if you are not interested in the era or mythology. It is not an essential pickup for everyone.
- Balance Changes Concern (weight 0.06): Some recommend buying early to enjoy the strong Chinese faction before potential nerfs. There is concern that fun aspects may be reduced by balance updates.
- Good for Casual and Single Player (weight 0.06): The DLC is recommended for casual and single-player players. It offers enjoyable content for those who prefer solo experiences.
- Economy Focused Players (weight 0.03): The Chinese faction is particularly enjoyable for players who focus on economy. It provides unique strategic options.
- Review Bombing for Issues (weight 0.03): One reviewer gave a 6/10 pending fixes for unspecified issues. This indicates some technical or balance problems affect satisfaction.

Other player notes:
- Comparison to Tale of the Dragon (weight 0.33): The DLC is frequently compared to the original Age of Mythology: Tale of the Dragon expansion, often favorably. This comparison appears in multiple clusters.
- Adds Chinese civilization and campaign (weight 0.18): The DLC introduces a Chinese faction, an overhauled Chinese tech tree and pantheon, and a new campaign. It also includes Chinese localization.
- Campaign is short (weight 0.17): Several reviewers point out that the campaign is short, with some specifying it has only 9 missions. It is also noted to be shorter than the Japanese campaign and the base game's campaign.
- DLC included in Premium Edition (weight 0.16): Players note that the expansion is included with the Premium Edition of the base game. Cluster 13 also mentions the Heavenly Spear DLC being part of the Premium Edition.
- Expansion for Age of Mythology Retold (weight 0.16): The DLC is an expansion for Age of Mythology: Retold. It is also simply referred to as an expansion for Age of Mythology.
- Compared to Japan DLC (weight 0.08): The DLC is compared to a Japan DLC, which some reviewers consider more awesome, better, or a masterpiece. This suggests the Japan DLC is highly regarded.
- Not on par with Fall of the Trident (weight 0.06): Some reviewers feel the campaign is not comparable to the original Fall of the Trident campaign. This indicates a perceived drop in quality or scope.
- It is the first DLC (weight 0.06): Some reviewers note that this is the first DLC for Age of Mythology: Retold. It is also referred to as an expansion.
- Game is a complete rework (weight 0.06): The game is described as a complete rework. This indicates significant changes from the original.
- Steam censors god's name (weight 0.06): There are mentions that Steam censors the god's name Fuxi. This is a specific issue raised by a couple of reviewers.
- DLC priced at specific amount (weight 0.05): Reviewers mention the DLC is priced at a specific amount. The exact amount is not detailed in the clusters.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.25): The campaign is widely criticized for being too short, typically consisting of only 9 missions, and for having a rushed, weak story with poor voice acting and unengaging characters. Many also find the DLC underwhelming and overpriced, with predictable missions, limited strategic depth, and a lack of variety or cultural depth compared to other Age of Mythology content.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.15): Players are satisfied with the well-received rework of the Chinese faction, which improves upon the original Extended Edition with better gods, units, and cultural representation. The campaign, including returning characters and connections to the original story, is often praised as engaging and worth the price, with high-quality graphics and enjoyable new mechanics.
- Frustration (weight 0.11): Frustration stems from persistent bugs, balance issues, and poor mission design, such as softlocks, pathing problems, and overly difficult or rushed missions. The Chinese faction is often seen as underpowered or unbalanced, and the campaign's repetitive 1v3 scenarios and time pressure add to the annoyance.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.08): Many find the Chinese faction and its campaign genuinely fun to play, with innovative mechanics such as god powers, myth unit upgrades, and a smooth gameplay style. The expansion offers long, engaging maps and a distinct civilization that fits naturally into the Age of Mythology universe.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation is driven by the thoughtful rework of the Chinese civilization, including unique units, god playstyles, and cultural authenticity. The developers' attention to detail, from pronunciation to modeling, and the inclusion of mythological elements like dragons and Kuafu, are highly valued.
- Excitement (weight 0.03): Excitement centers on the introduction of the Chinese pantheon, with cool myth units, god abilities, and the Kuafu as a game-changing unit. Players look forward to summoning gods, commanding mythical creatures, and exploring new strategic possibilities.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.03): Dissatisfaction arises from bland voice acting, a weak main villain, and units that lack identity. The campaign story and heroes are considered mediocre, with linear and hand-held missions that reduce engagement.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion often stems from unclear plot points, such as the fate of returning characters and unexplained mechanics like trapping a god. Players also report confusion over unit upgrades, character names, and language settings not matching expectations.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Boredom is caused by a generic and repetitive campaign with forgettable writing and missions that fail to excite. The story and presentation are seen as dull, leading to a lack of engagement.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasm is fueled by the DLC's fresh content, including new units, a unique economy via the Kuafu, and an atmospheric skirmish biome. The mythic units, god mechanics, and varied strategies contribute to a revitalized RTS experience.
- Amusement (weight 0.02): Amusement comes from quirky elements like Shenxian traps in the ending, building happiness mechanics, and the inability to hunt giant pandas for food. Chiyou's comedic portrayal and the Creation power's visual effects also provide lighthearted moments.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance is primarily due to poor voice acting, buggy units that get stuck, and missing features like an introduction cinematic. Unclear mission objectives and frustrating god power combinations in competitive play add to the irritation.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration focuses on the beautiful myth units, brilliant graphics, and a visually stunning campaign. The high production quality and creative design are consistently praised.
- Fun (weight 0.01): Fun is derived from playing the new factions and utilizing their unique mechanics, as well as enjoying the pantheon overall. The DLC civilizations are considered entertaining to play.
- Mild disappointment (weight 0.01): Mild disappointment arises from the campaign still feeling a bit short and the presentation being sparse. Some also feel the DLC needs balancing and is slightly expensive.
- Dislike (weight 0.01): Dislike is directed at mythological units, the campaign's delivery, and uninteresting units with poor building designs. The high number of timed missions further detracts from the experience.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is sparked by the story campaign and a great cameo moment, along with seeing global mythology rendered in RTS. The reworked campaign story and the varied, unique Chinese faction also bring delight.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by the return of old heroes like Ajax and the dwarf brothers, long RTS maps reminiscent of classic campaigns, and a mission traveling to all underworlds. Playing the Chinese faction also feels culturally resonant.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise stems from the DLC exceeding low expectations and being surprisingly enjoyable. The novelty of new official content for a 2002 game also catches players off guard.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation is about looking forward to mastering the favor and major god bonus mechanics, as well as waiting for future updates. Players are eager to explore the faction more deeply.}