Age of Empires III released digitally on Games for Windows Live

Ensemble Studios’ Age of Empires III and all the the expansions are now offered as a single download on the Games for Windows Live platform. Priced at $39 the download edition supports  a basic level of Games for Windows integration including easier installation and Windows Vista support with the games explorer. Its always good to hear of Ensemble games being released on as many distribution vehicles as possible.

I am sure many readers of this blog are familiar with Ensemble’s Age of Empires legacy.. but just in case you have forgotten here is the official low down from Microsoft:

Immerse yourself in the award-winning strategy experience. Microsoft Game Studios brings you three epic Age of Empires III games in one monumental collection for the first time. Command mighty European powers looking to explore new lands in the New World; or jump eastward to Asia and determine the outcome of its struggles for power.

Playable Asian civilizations. Lead one of three unique Asian civilizations Japan, China or India to expand its empire and fight for control in the Eastern world. Each Asian civilization, led by powerful leaders, will have unique groups, armies and wonders, as well as buildings that reflect the culture s architectural style.

New game-play elements. Extending the innovative game-play of Age of Empires III, Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties and War Chiefs will introduce new ways of winning and trading, random map styles that feature remixes of classic Age of Empires game styles, 15 Asian Wonders and New World adventures.

Exciting new single-player campaign. Returning to the historical, civilization-based single-player campaigns, Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties will offer gamers who enjoy the solo experience a chance to engage in strategic combat with Japan, China or India through several engrossing scenarios. Or lead New World expeditions with War Chiefs.

Expanding a successful formula. Age of Empires III: The Asian Dynasties is the second expansion pack for the massively popular Age of Empires III, one of the fastest-selling titles in the franchise history, leading and innovating the real-time strategy genre through exciting and revolutionary game-play features.

For more details and to purchase the download visit http://www.microsoft.com/games/en-us/GAMES/Pages/ageofempires3.aspx.