Microsoft Announces Age of Empires Online

The return of AoE from (some of) the original makers.

Microsoft may have shut down Ensemble Studios in a heartbreaking manner, but the talent behind the Age of Empire games hasn't fizzled out. The reformed team at Robot Entertainment are on the franchise again, as Microsoft has taken the cover off of Age of Empires Online. As the name suggests, it'll be something you'll need Internet for.

Not much is known yet, other than it'll have similar themes from the previous entries into the series.

Developed by Robot Entertainment, "Age of Empires Online" will invite players to create a living, growing online world, shared with friends and friendly rivals around the globe. Begin the journey with your own Greek civilization, and watch as it progresses from a village to an empire. Embark on quests along the way, alone or with friends, and immerse yourself in epic tales, quirky characters, adventure, history and strategy. Together with the Games for Windows – LIVE service, "Age of Empires Online" delivers a rich, social experience that lets you play however you want - anywhere, anytime.

Marrying fresh features with iconic gameplay, "Age of Empires Online" offers something for long-time fans, newcomers and everyone in between. "Age of Empires Online" will feature:

* A persistent online capital city that lives and grows even when you're offline
* Cooperative multiplayer quests, trading and a level-based system that lets you progress at your own pace
* Fun, approachable style and storylines
* Free-to-play experiences via Games for Windows – LIVE

More information, news and chances to join the beta program are available at http://www.ageofempiresonline.com.