Rise of Nations Heading to Windows Store with Steam Cross-play

OS: Windows Vista, 7, 8.1+
Processor: 1.6
Memory: 1 GB RAM
Graphics: Direct X 10+ Capable GPU
DirectX: Version 10
Storage: 3 GB available space
Sound Card: Direct X Compatible Sound Card
Additional Notes: GPU at least (Integrated HD 3000, 8600GT, etc)

Ron Perillo / 7 years ago

The real-time strategy classic Rise of Nations is heading to the Microsoft Windows Store on September 14. The best part however, is that the game will feature cross-play compatibility with the Steam version upon release. Windows Central confirms the 100% cross-play compatibility after reaching out to Microsoft themselves. Playing against players across platforms is essential for Microsoft games since the player base is substantially smaller than that of Steam.

In games like Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare which is available in the Windows Store for example, match making becomes extremely difficult because of this. According to Microsoft, the Rise of Nations team worked with teams from Steam and Xbox Live to make sure that cross-play truly is working as far as multiplayer setups goes.

Rise of Nations: Extended Edition–Modern Update on a Classic

The Extended Edition of Rise of Nations brings a lineup of 24 nations. Giving players control over the course of a 6,000 year history. Extended Edition means the ‘Thrones and Patriots’ expansion is already in there. Xbox users also get achievements and cloud saves.

To entice more players to go for the Windows Store version, Microsoft is offering the game for only $4.99 USD. This is a significant cut from the regular price of $19.99 USD. The only downside is that gamers would have to wait until mid-September, even though the Steam version is already available (albeit at a higher price).