The second expansion for the Definitive Edition of Age of Empires 2 is here. We reveal what content awaits you in the DLC Dawn of Dukes.
Just over two months before the release of Age of Empires 4, Microsoft is providing Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition with new content. More precisely, with the paid expansion, which goes by the name of “Dawn of the Dukes”.
In contrast to the expansion Lords of the West, this time the DLC focuses on the Eastern European region and brings new factions, among other things. We tell you what’s in the second DLC for the Definitive Edition.
What’s in the new DLC Dawn of Dukes
Two new races for Age of Empires 2
Although it was once said that the Definitive Edition of Age of Empires 2 would not receive any new civilisations, the developers have already changed their mind with Lords of the West. So it’s no surprise that Dawn of the Dukes is once again adding two new races to the strategy game:
Bohemia
The Kingdom of Bohemia once formed what is now the Czech Republic together with Moravia and part of Silesia. Prague was also the capital even then. In terms of gameplay, the Bohemians in Age of Empires 2 rely on tough warriors and a kind of medieval tank. Among the special features are:
– Hussite Chariot: The forerunner of the modern tank is the Bohemian special unit and deadly in open combat.
– Haufnitze: This is a more technologically advanced siege cannon that gives towers and walls a run for their money.
– Wagenburg Tactics and Hussite Reforms: New technologies that boost firepower and monks.
Poland
In the course of the migration of peoples, various tribes of western Polans first settled in what is now the territory of Poland in the Middle Ages. Accordingly, Poland as a nation in Age of Empires 2 is also bloody young and relies on cavalry. Special features include:
Obuch: A strong infantry unit that uses a warhammer to pierce the armour of enemy units.
Folwark: A replacement for the classic mill that makes created hexes around it more efficient.
Szlachta Privileges and Lechite Legacy: New technologies to strengthen cavalry.
Three new campaigns
In addition to the new races, which are also playable in multiplayer mode, there are also three new campaigns on the single player front. These are, as usual, completely set to music and offer the following scenarios:
– Algirdas and Kestutis: In this campaign, you take over the Lithuanians and must defend yourself with Prince Algirdas and his brother Kestutis against the crusaders and the descendants of Genghis Khan, who threaten to destroy Lithuania.
– Jadwiga: As a young child, Jadwiga already ascends the Polish throne and tries to unite Poland and Lithuania as one kingdom. At the same time, she has to assert herself against leaders like Jogaila and Vytautas the Great.
– Jan Žižka: The eponymous bearer and former mercenary Žižka relies on technological and tactical innovations within Bohemia to defend himself against the strong army of the Holy Roman Emperor.
In addition, Poland and Bohemia have been added to existing missions from previous campaigns to better reflect their respective historical settings. Among other things, you will now find the new nations in the Genghis Khan and Barbarossa campaigns.
What the first players say
Dawn of the Dukes is available now for €10 on Steam and the Microsoft Store. Players who pre-order Age of Empires 4 will even receive the expansion for free.
Meanwhile, the first user reviews for Dawn of the Dukes on Steam are predominantly positive: Most are simply happy about the new content for the strategy classic. Single-player fans in particular seem to get their money’s worth with the three new campaigns. Only the multiplayer faction seems to be a little unsure whether the two new races are an exciting addition or will be forgotten.
By the way: It will still take a while until the release of the new part of the series, but Age of Empires 4 already shows a promising face in the preview:
What do you think about Dawn of the Dukes: Are you interested in the information about the new expansion or would you rather wait until the release of Age of Empires 4? Let us know in the comments.
