October 30, 2002

Age of Mythology Trial Version Lets Gamers Play Zeus

Microsoft Game Studios and Ensemble Studios today announced that the Age of Mythology trial version is now available on the game's official site at http://www.ageofmythology.com.  Age of Mythology ships to stores tomorrow (October 31), but gamers will be able to get their first taste of the most anticipated game of the season by downloading the trial version today.

In the trial version, gamers can wield Zeus' famous lightning bolt while playing one of the nine civilizations featured in the retail version of Age of Mythology. Players can advance through the third age on two random maps, or play through five scenarios in this demo. The retail version of Age of Mythology will contain four ages, 21 random maps and 35 scenarios. The estimated retail price for Age of Mythology is $54.95 (U.S.).

Using familiar elements of classical mythology, Age of Mythology casts players as one of nine unique civilizations from ancient Greek, Norse and Egyptian mythologies. Players can reinforce their armies with mythological creatures like Cyclopes and Medusas or call upon the mighty powers of gods such as Zeus to rain down lightning bolts on unsuspecting enemies. Age of Mythology also incorporates Ensemble Studios' trademark features from previous Age of Empires games, including a compelling economic model, a massive army and battle system, unequaled artificial intelligence, random maps, intuitive gameplay and extreme attention to detail.

Age of Mythology's 3-D engine delivers impressive graphics in a fully 3-D environment, including beautiful waves and water, lifelike rolling terrain, realistic sunlight, and lush forests. In-game cinematics create a seamless, story-based and character-driven campaign which features 35 scenarios. In addition, the game features incredible special effects, including waterspouts, infernos, snowstorms, tornadoes and earthquakes.

Age of Mythology is a branch of the popular Age of Empires franchise that has sold more than 10.5 million licensed units worldwide. More information about Age of Mythology is available at http://www.microsoft.com/games/ageofmythology/, or on the Ensemble Studios site at http://www.ensemblestudios.com/aom/. 

Microsoft Game Studios is a leading worldwide publisher and developer of games for the PC, Xbox video game system and online platforms. Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is committed to creating innovative and diverse game portfolios for the PC (http://www.microsoft.com/games/), including such franchises as Age of Empires, Flight Simulator and Zoo Tycoon; Xbox (http://www.xbox.com/), including such franchises as Halo, Project Gotham Racing and NFL Fever; and Zone.com (http://www.zone.com/), the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as Bejeweled and OutSmart.

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