Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is still going strong with an upcoming update that promises to be one of the biggest in the game’s history. The update will include bug fixes, new visuals for various elements of the game, technology tree UI updates, balance changes, new maps, and new features to support random map scripting, scenario editor, and modding. The visual overhauls will introduce 25 new castle visuals across civilizations and different visuals for elite unique units compared to their non-upgraded counterparts. There will also be animation improvements for all units, along with reorganized technology tree layout for better readability and new options from the main menu to access the editor and other features. The update will also bring a massive list of balance changes to individual units, particularly focusing on China as a new scenario called “Xie An” will be introduced. This scenario will let players defend the Fei River from the northern warlord Fu Jian and includes espionage, bribery, funding rebellion, and misdirecting the enemy army. Furthermore, there will be adjustments to herdable and huntable animals, as well as improvements to map features such as forest spacing, water amount, relic distribution, and the addition of new trees like Lush Bamboo, Asian Pine, Peach Blossom, and Asian Maple. Additionally, a new bird, the Red Crowned Crane, and a new map called Great Wall will also be added. The developers have also teased about an upcoming expansion which will include five brand new civilizations playable in ranked multiplayer. They are keeping the details under wraps for now, but it’s clear that the focus will be on ancient China. The community is eagerly anticipating this expansion, with many fans expressing excitement and anticipation for the new content. This dedication to expanding and improving the game has been well-received by fans, with some calling it “the best update ever.” The developers, Forgotten Empires and World’s Edge, have been consistently delivering expansions for the Definitive Edition, with six released so far. Despite being 26 years old, Age of Empires 2 continues to evolve and improve, solidifying its position as one of the best strategy games of all time.