Gas Powered Games has recently announced that their online strategy version for Age of Empires is now completely free-to-play. Hooray!

All content within the game is now available through purchasing in-game, or through micro-transactions available on Steam. With the previous model, the game was free for gamers to try, but much of the higher content wasn’t available strictly through playing.

In addition to the new free-to-play model, the team has released “Alliance Wars”, which is a team-based multiplayer mode for level 40 players. The new structure could be a result of fan complaints. Many feel that the requirement for certain content to be paid for ruined what could have been a great experience, and resulted in many players to step away from their computers. Hitting a barrier that forces you to pay for certain content can easily be viewed as a negative.

If you are still a current players be sure to look out for the 500 Empire Points that Gas Powered Games will be depositing into your game account. I would imagine you should think of it a little thank you from the team.

Here’s what Chris Taylor, CEO of Gas Powered Games, had to say about the change:

“With Empire Points and this true free-to-play business model, we are giving players what they have repeatedly asked for… fewer pay walls and more ways for players to experience this legendary franchise.”

Will you be checking out the game with its new direction, or are you one of the lucky few with a 500 Point deposit? Let us know below!

Source: Eurogamer

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