Microsoft Pulls the Plug on Original Age of Empires III, Multiplayer Serversto Shut Down on October 30th
Seattle, WA – Microsofthas announced the discontinuation of the original Age of Empires III, released in 2007, from digital storefronts. The game’s multiplayer servers will also be shut down on October 30th, 2024.
The news was delivered through a Steam announcementfor Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, the game’s remastered version. Microsoft stated that the decision to stop selling the original game was made after years of support, and that Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition will continue toreceive support.
As of today, Age of Empires III (2007) is no longer available for purchase, the announcement reads. After years of support, we have decided to stop selling this game. Age of EmpiresIII: Definitive Edition will continue to be supported.
The shutdown of the original Age of Empires III multiplayer servers is attributed to the aging technology, which is no longer supported. Players who own the game will still be able to access the campaign and skirmish modes, but online multiplayer will no longer be available.
Theannouncement has sparked mixed reactions from the Age of Empires community. While some players are disappointed by the news, others understand the decision given the game’s age and the limitations of its technology.
Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition has been a success since its release, garnering an 84%positive rating on Steam, with 90% of reviews in the past 30 days being positive. The game is currently available for purchase on Steam for $14.99 USD.
This move by Microsoft marks the end of an era for the original Age of Empires III, but the franchise continues tothrive with the Definitive Edition and the upcoming Age of Empires IV.
References:
- Microsoft Steam Announcement for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition
- IT之家 article on the shutdown
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