Rise of Nations fans are about to have all their dreams come true. Microsoft has announced that it has acquired the rights to the game and will be bringing it to Steam in the form of a new extended edition. This remake is in development at Skybox Labs, the same studio responsible for Age of Mythology: Extended Edition which launched earlier this year. As with their previous game, Rise of Nations: Extended Edition will feature improved graphics, trading cards and achievements as well as Steamworks and Twitch integration. This remake will not only feature the original game but will also include the Thrones and Patriots expansion pack.
Released in 2003, Rise of Nations was originally developed by the now defunct Big Huge Games. The game features 18 different civilisations and takes place across 8 different ages in world history. Upon release, Rise of Nations was met with incredibly high praise and won several game of the year awards. Unfortunately Big Huge Games never made a sequel. Instead they went on to release an Xbox Live version of The Settlers of Catan board game and the Asian Dynasties expansion for Age of Empires III. The studio’s entire staff were laid off in 2012 following the financial failure of their last game, Kingdoms of Amalur.
Rise of Nations: Extended Edition will launch in June for $19.99/ £14.99, although there is a 20% discount for those who pre-order.
Via Eurogamer
