Pursuing the Dream of Bringing Age of Empires to Mobile Devices

The real-time strategy series Age of Empires has been around since its initial release on PC in 1997, with numerous launches on various platforms including consoles and mobile devices. Following the success of Age of Empires 4 on PC and Xbox, Microsoft is attempting to attract mobile gamers with the upcoming Age of Empires Mobile. Development of the title began in 2021, but a release schedule has not been announced. TiMi Studio is co-developing the game in partnership with World's Edge, while Xbox Game Studios serves as the publisher. According to Brayden Fan, the project was the result of years of collaboration between the gaming companies. The goal is to create a unique experience that plays to the franchise's strengths while being accessible to mobile audiences. This is Microsoft's third attempt to bring Age of Empires to smartphones, with previous titles including Age of Empires: Castle Siege and Age of Empires: World Domination. Both games have been shut down, and Age of Empires Mobile aims to offer a different experience. TiMi Studio has a track record of working on established mobile IPs, including Pokémon Unite, Call of Duty Mobile, and Saint Seiya: Awakening. Fan explains that the team is focused on creating a game that fits the needs of the mobile platform, with a data-oriented design approach to balance performance and quality. The game will feature a free-to-play business model, with in-game purchases available to speed up resource and hero progression. Over 100 people are working on Age of Empires Mobile at TiMi Studio, with assistance from World's Edge to ensure the game adheres to the Age of Empires brand. The target audience includes both fans of the series and new players, with the goal of creating a welcoming experience for all. The gameplay will be real-time, with a structure that differs from previous Age of Empires titles, featuring smaller unit battles, predesigned bases, and a card-like hero summoning system. The development team is focused on creating a game that is easy to play on mobile devices, while still providing a challenging experience. The team is also considering accessibility options, such as a customizable user interface, to make the game playable for as many people as possible.