These rules differ depending on the game type you're playing. Villagers handle all your resource gathering and building construction, while military units take care of any threats. You're tasked with taking all that and building the most powerful force on the map. In most cases (save nomad games), you begin with a few villagers, a scout, some herdable animals, and some banked resources. In skirmish matches against AI or real players, Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition puts you in control of a civilization.

This is bound to change based on official updates and new playstyles developed by experienced players.ĭepending on your playstyle - do you like to sit back and defend, or do you like to attack with cavalry? - your choice of civilization can have a substantial impact on how your games will play out, as well as what options will be available to you. Some are considered meta, which essentially classifies them as the most popular and considered the best by the community. In total, there are 37 civilizations in the game to choose from, including two new civs arriving with the 'Lords of the West' expansion expected January 26. Luckily, this guide will teach you all you need to know to handle the basics and start focusing on honing your skills. The difference between the AI (even on harder difficulties) and experienced human opponents is startling to newer players. Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is an easy game to get into, but it's incredibly challenging to master.

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