The next entry in the acclaimed Age of Empires series might be coming later this year, but that isn't stopping the developers behind Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition from pumping out new content for the enhanced version of a legacy title. Get ready to take on even more challenges with brand new civilizations in the Age of Empires 2 expansion Dawn of the Dukes very soon, as we now have a release date.
The developers behind Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition announced the second expansion to this title, called Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition - Dawn of the Dukes earlier this year. Now we have a confirmed release date: August 10, 2021. Players can pre-order Dawn of the Dukes now for $9.99 ahead of its launch next week. It is available on both Steam and the Microsoft store. Purchasing this expansion will allow you to charge right into war with two new civilizations and three unique campaigns.
What's Included in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition - Dawn of the Dukes?
In this European-centric pack, you take command of two civilizations: the Poles (from Poland) and Bohemians (now, the Czech Republic). Each civilization comes with all-new units and buildings, thus allowing for players to battle in ways they've never experienced before.
As described in the official announcement for Dawn of the Dukes, the Poles make strong use of cavalry units and have two new technologies that buff your mounted. A signature unit of this civilization is the Winged Hussars, a Polish group of mounted warriors who are notable for their prowess in battle and the winged ornaments adorning the back of their armor. Another new unit is the Obuch, which are infantrymen utilizing hammers who specialize in countering armored foes. The Folwark building is a new addition which "replaces the Mill and increases the efficiency of nearby farms," according to the announcement.
The second included civilization are the Bohemians. Their focus is on gunpowder and religion and receives technologies that buff units within those categories. Differing from the Poles, the Bohemians utilize two new vehicles rather than infantry or cavalry, with the first being the sturdy Hussite Wagon. The second, called the Houfnice, is essentially an antiquated, progenitor version of the fearsome Howitzer artillery. This Houfnice specializes in taking down buildings such as walls.
Along with the Poles and Bohemians come three new campaigns: Algirdas and Kestutis of the Lithuanians, Jadwiga of the Poles, and Jan Zizka of the Bohemians. As always, there is also a slew of new achievements centering on these campaigns.
Again, you won't have to wait long to play Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition - Dawn of the Dukes. This expansion releases next week on August 10, 2021 for $9.99 on Steam and the Microsoft Store.
Which civilization are you excited for? What campaign will you play first? Let us know in the comments below!
