Which Age of Empires is Most Played?
The Age of Empires series has been a staple of the real-time strategy genre for decades, with four main installments and numerous spin-offs. Each game has its own unique charm and fan base, but which one is the most played?
The Data
To answer this question, we need to look at the data. Steamcharts, a popular website that tracks player numbers for PC games, provides a good snapshot of the current player base for each Age of Empires game.
Table 1: Steamchart Player Numbers (January 2023)
| Game | Average Players |
|---|---|
| Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition | 17,902.0 |
| Age of Empires IV | 11,349.0 |
| Age of Empires III | 2,413.0 |
| Age of Empires | 1,023.0 |
The Verdict
According to the data, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition (DE) is the clear winner, with an average of 17,902.0 players per month. This is not surprising, as the game was re-released in 2019 with improved graphics and gameplay, attracting both new and veteran players.
Why is AOE2 DE the Most Played?
So, why is AOE2 DE the most played Age of Empires game? There are several reasons:
• Updated Graphics and Gameplay: The Definitive Edition update brought improved graphics, new features, and refined gameplay, making the game more appealing to players.
• Community Engagement: The AOE2 DE community is extremely active, with regular tournaments and events, which keeps players engaged and attracts new ones.
• Free to Play: The game is free to play, which makes it accessible to a wider audience.
• Cross-Platform: The game is available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, making it easier for players to play with friends across different platforms.
Is AOE3 a Close Second?
While AOE2 DE is the clear winner, AOE3 is not far behind, with an average of 2,413.0 players per month. AOE3 was released in 2005 and has maintained a loyal fan base over the years. Although its player base is smaller than AOE2 DE’s, it is still a popular game among RTS enthusiasts.
Why is AOE4 Lagging Behind?
AOE4, the latest installment in the series, is the least played of the four games, with an average of 11,349.0 players per month. This may be due to several factors:
• Launch Issues: The game’s launch was plagued by technical issues and server problems, which may have deterred some players from continuing to play.
• High System Requirements: AOE4 has high system requirements, which may limit the number of players who can play the game smoothly.
• Competing with AOE2 DE: The success of AOE2 DE may have taken away from AOE4’s player base, as some players prefer the more established game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is the most played Age of Empires game, followed closely by AOE3. AOE4, the latest installment, lags behind due to various factors. If you’re a fan of RTS games, we recommend checking out AOE2 DE for its engaging gameplay, active community, and updated graphics.
FAQ
Can I Play Age of Empires Online?
Yes, all Age of Empires games, including AOE2 DE and AOE4, have online multiplayer capabilities. You can play with friends or join online tournaments and events.
What’s the Best Age of Empires Game for Beginners?
We recommend starting with AOE2 DE, as it has a gentler learning curve and more beginner-friendly gameplay. Additionally, the game’s tutorials and online community resources are very helpful for new players.
What’s the Future of Age of Empires?
Microsoft Studios is committed to supporting the Age of Empires series, and we can expect to see new games and updates in the future. With the success of AOE2 DE, we may see a resurgence of interest in the series, which could lead to new and exciting developments.