Age of Mythology: Retold Review

Age of Mythology: Retold Review

As a seasoned gamer with a heart full of nostalgia and a shelf overflowing with RTS titles, I must say that Age of Mythology: Retold has managed to carve out a special place among the legends. This game takes me back to the days when I was just a young lad, huddled around my CRT monitor, strategizing and conquering in the age-old world of myths and legends.


Although Age of Empires by Ensemble Studios gained tremendous popularity within the real-time strategy genre, there’s another game from their collection that warrants equal recognition. Launched in 2002, Age of Mythology deviated from its classic formula to transport players into a more enchanting and myth-rich epoch for an unforgettable gaming experience. Now, two decades later, they are reviving it under the fitting name Age of Mythology: Retold. So far, it’s living up to expectations.

Stepping once more into the world of Age of Mythology: Retold, I find myself immersed in the epic age where Greek, Egyptian, Norse, and Atlantean deities reign supreme. Here, time will fly as I delve deep into mythical landscapes, clashing swords with fearsome adversaries such as cyclops, and engaging in battles alongside or against these very gods themselves. This unique combination is a dream come true for mythology enthusiasts, while its RTS gameplay offers a nostalgic trip back to the genre’s golden days. And the cherry on top? The journey has only just begun!

Age of Mythology: Retold is a Blast from the Past

For enthusiasts of the classic “Age of Mythology”, this new version will be instantly familiar, as the developers have aimed to preserve its essence rather than introduce major alterations. The original storylines have been refurbished, skirmishes remain enjoyable pastimes, and countless online battles are ready for engagement. However, instead of simply rehashing the old experience, Ensemble Studios has enhanced the graphics, incorporated numerous user-friendly improvements, and broadened the game’s content to give it a fresh, updated feel for newcomers.

The main issue with its graphical overhaul is that some gamers might think Ensemble didn’t push things far enough in this area. Age of Mythology still has somewhat rough character models and visuals, appearing as high-definition upgrades of older designs. It seems the studio aimed for a specific aesthetic, but those seeking visually stunning experiences might not find it here.

Age of Mythology: Retold Understands What Makes a Good RTS

Nevertheless, the primary emphasis in any Real-Time Strategy (RTS) game lies in its gameplay, and the gameplay in Age of Mythology: Retold remains as captivating as before. Similar to many RTS titles, players begin with some civilian units, a leader, military units, and a city center that needs to be transformed into an expansive fortress. Initially, they need to collect essential resources like food, wood, and gold. Afterward, these resources are utilized for constructing defenses, various barracks, improving buildings, and numerous other items aimed at strengthening their base as much as possible.

Each structure has a role to play, many of them essential for achieving success in the game. As players construct their settlement, they’ll be able to advance through the four stages of Age of Mythology if they gather the necessary resources. With each stage comes new buildings, units, and gods ready to offer assistance. Each deity brings unique powers, mythical units, and exclusive technologies that can either crush the opposition or bolster allies. Although not every power may seem beneficial at first glance, they all can play a crucial role in the course of battle.

Age of Mythology: Retold Review

In this game, you’ll find four distinct factions, each featuring their unique collection of deities and troops. You’ll encounter some of the most renowned mythological figures – Zeus, Poseidon, Thor, Odin, and Ra, to name a few – as well as a host of lesser gods. Plus, you can train powerful heroes and creatures like Centaurs or Trolls to lead your battles, creating an authentic Age of Mythology experience.

Age of Mythology: Retold’s Classic RTS Combat and Story Are a Blast

In the game Age of Mythology: Retold, the combat system aligns with typical Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games. Players construct an assortment of units, ranging from fighters and rangers to siege weapons, boats, and unique special units. Each unit possesses distinct advantages and disadvantages. They then employ these forces in conflicts against adversaries, aiming to demolish their base in the process. In addition to primary encampments, there are usually minor ones scattered across the map for conquest. The gameplay loop is familiar but has been enriched by the engaging mythological themes embedded within the game.

In “Age of Mythology: Retold”, legendary figures and warriors lend a distinctive charm to its combats. Although it’s enjoyable to deploy hordes of archers against opponents, nothing quite matches the thrill of unleashing a colossal giant supported by an army of centaurs, with Heracles leading from the rear. To make things even more spectacular, when the god powers are activated, they can be reused, transforming the battlefield into a breathtaking spectacle.

As a dedicated gamer, I’d definitely vouch for an RTS game like Age of Mythology: Retold not just being about strategic battles, but also offering an engaging narrative. Fortunately, this game packs quite a punch with three massive campaigns that plunge players into thrilling mythological journeys. You’ll find yourself battling through the epic tale of Troy, braving the icy expanse of Midgard, and delving into the tumultuous lands of Egypt. The sheer amount of content in these campaigns will keep you entertained for hours on end, with even more adventures teased for future updates.

The Age of Mythology Fun is Just Getting Started

It’s evident that Ensemble aims to grow the game “Age of Mythology: Retold” after its launch with additional content. This includes regular updates as well as two upcoming expansions designed to enrich and diversify the gameplay experience. The initial expansion brings back the Chinese civilization and their pantheon, while the details about the second expansion are still under wraps. Regardless of its specifics, it’s certain that this new content will breathe fresh life into the game.

In summary, the remake, titled Age of Mythology: Retold, appears to be a powerful revival of the original game. Ensemble has clearly mastered the art of creating an enjoyable Real-Time Strategy (RTS) experience, one that is accessible for newcomers while remaining faithful to its roots. However, some might find its graphics somewhat crude and outdated compared to contemporary titles. Nevertheless, it remains a worthy investment for RTS enthusiasts eager to dive into something fresh and exciting. With plenty of content on the way, the entertainment could potentially be endless.

On September 4, 2024, the revamped version of “Age of Mythology” titled “Age of Mythology: Retold” will be available on PC and Xbox Series X/S. In this review, Game Rant was given a PC code for early access.

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2024-08-31 13:44