Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition – Can It Play With The Original Complete Collection?
The short answer is a resounding no. Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition (DE) and the original Age of Empires 3: Complete Collection are fundamentally incompatible. They cannot be played together in multiplayer or any other game mode. This is due to significant differences in their underlying code, features, and content. The Definitive Edition is essentially a remastered and rebuilt version of the original, not just a visual upgrade. The changes implemented are far too vast for cross-compatibility.
Why Are They Incompatible? The Deep Dive
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition represents a massive overhaul of the original game. It’s not merely a fresh coat of paint; it’s a complete engine rebuild with countless adjustments and additions.
A Sea of Changes
The article excerpt itself mentions over 133,000 individual changes and additions implemented just on release. These alterations span everything from graphics and UI to gameplay mechanics and online infrastructure. Attempting to merge these two versions would be akin to trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. The Definitive Edition boasts improvements in several key areas:
- Graphics: The original game received a substantial visual upgrade in the Definitive Edition. Featuring 4K Ultra HD graphics, rebuilt 3D assets, and improved destruction animations for buildings, the DE delivers a much more immersive and visually stunning experience.
- User Interface: The UI has been completely overhauled to be more intuitive and scalable, catering to a wider range of screen resolutions and player preferences.
- Online Multiplayer: One of the most critical differences is the switch to a server-based online multiplayer system in DE. This replaces the peer-to-peer system of the original, providing a more stable and reliable online experience. This also includes cross-network play, further isolating it from the original.
- Content: The Definitive Edition comes bundled with all previous expansions, plus additional content that expands on the original.
- Gameplay: Numerous balance adjustments, unit tweaks, and changes to core mechanics contribute to significant gameplay differences. These include, but are not limited to, new maps, remastered sounds, spectator mode, and Mod support.
- AI: Improved AI behavior, offering a more challenging single-player experience.
Different Under the Hood
The underlying netcode that powers the online multiplayer is drastically different. The original Age of Empires 3 used a peer-to-peer (P2P) system. The Definitive Edition now uses a server-based multiplayer. This fundamental change makes direct communication between the two versions impossible. They simply speak different languages.
The Definitive Experience: What Makes It Special?
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition offers a significantly enhanced experience compared to the original, making it a compelling choice for both new players and returning veterans.
Enhanced Visuals and Audio
The 4K Ultra HD graphics and rebuilt 3D assets create a visually stunning world. The remastered sounds and music further enhance the immersive atmosphere.
Comprehensive Content
The Definitive Edition includes all previously released expansions, offering a wealth of content to explore. With all 22 civilizations, 12 Co-Op Historical Battles, 8 fully voiced Campaigns, and the Art of War challenge missions included in one package, players have access to a complete Age of Empires 3 experience.
Modernized Gameplay
The improvements to the UI, online multiplayer, and gameplay mechanics make the Definitive Edition a much more accessible and enjoyable experience.
A Platform for Learning
Real-time strategy games, like Age of Empires 3, offer a fantastic platform for cognitive skill development. Players need to manage resources, plan strategic moves, and adapt to changing circumstances. This active engagement aligns perfectly with the work being done by the Games Learning Society , exploring the intersection of games and education. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the organization and their contributions to understanding how games can be used for learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play my old Age of Empires 3 saves in the Definitive Edition?
No, save files are not compatible between the original Age of Empires 3 and the Definitive Edition. The changes to the game’s engine and data structure prevent the Definitive Edition from reading the old save files.
2. Does everyone need the DLC to play together in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
No, every DE player can play with each other, regardless of their DLC content. However, DLC owners can select more civilizations or maps. Non-DLC owners can still join those games, but they won’t be able to select the civs or maps they don’t own when creating a game.
3. What are the system requirements for Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
The minimum system requirements are:
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system.
- OS: Windows 10 64bit.
- Processor: 1.8 Ghz+ Dual Core or greater i5 or AMD equivalent.
- Memory: 4 GB RAM.
4. What is the maximum population in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
In the Definitive Edition, the population can be set between 25 and 250, in increments of 25. Some mods may allow for even higher population limits.
5. How many civilizations are in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition includes 22 civilizations.
6. What are the original civilizations available in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
The original civilizations include: British, Dutch, French, Germans, Ottomans, Portuguese, Russians, and Spanish.
7. How long does it take to beat Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
When focusing on the main objectives, Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is about 22 hours in length. Completing everything in the game can take around 67 hours.
8. Is Age of Empires 2 Definitive Edition compatible with Age of Empires 2 (HD)?
No, there’s no crossplay between AoE 2 HD and AoE 2 DE due to different netcode and the lack of the “The Last Khans” expansion in the HD Edition.
9. Can you play co-op in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
Yes, Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition features a co-op mode. From the Multiplayer screen, choose Host a Casual Game. In the Host Game dialog box, select Co-Op Battle from the Game Mode drop-down list, then choose a battle from the Co-Op Scenario drop-down.
10. What is the final age in Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
The Imperial Age is the fifth and final Age in Age of Empires 3.
11. What are the key differences between Age of Empires 3 and Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition?
The differences are numerous and include: improved 4K Ultra HD graphics, rebuilt 3D assets, enhanced destruction animations, an overhauled and scalable UI, server-based online multiplayer with cross-network play, new maps, remastered sounds and music, and comprehensive mod support.
12. Which Age of Empires game is more popular, 2 or 3?
While both games have a dedicated fanbase, Age of Empires 2 maintains more popularity because of its simpler game mechanics, the depth of civilizations, and a larger community.
13. Is Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition a good remaster?
Yes, most reviews indicate that Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition is considered to be a quality remaster. It delivers significant improvements and new features over the original game.
14. Is Age of Empires 3 or 4 better?
The preference between AoE3 and AoE4 is subjective. If you are a casual player who prefers a sense of progress between missions, AoE3 is better. If you are into the competitive aspect, AoE IV builds directly on AoE2, which has seen long-term success and more popularity with the competitive scene.
15. Does Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition require a powerful computer?
While not requiring cutting-edge hardware, Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition benefits from a dedicated graphics card and sufficient RAM to run smoothly at higher settings and resolutions.
In Conclusion
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition stands as a significantly enhanced and modernized version of the original. While the inability to play with the original Complete Collection might be a drawback for some, the extensive improvements and new features make it a worthwhile experience for both newcomers and veterans alike. Its modernization of gameplay, comprehensive content, and enhanced visuals make it a must-try for any fan of the Age of Empires series.