By Odin’s beard! 22 years on, Age of Mythology is still the god of strategy games

Aug 28, 2024 at 4:00 PM

Revisiting the Mythical World: A Captivating Journey Through Age of Mythology

In a world where nostalgia often takes center stage, one classic game has managed to captivate a new generation of players: Age of Mythology: Retold. This strategic masterpiece, a spin-off from the beloved Age of Empires series, has resurfaced, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of ancient mythologies. From the thunderous battles of the Greeks to the mystical realms of the Norse and Egyptians, this game offers a unique blend of strategy, mythology, and adrenaline-fueled combat.

A Mythological Odyssey Revived

Commanding the Pantheon: Ascension of the Gods

In Age of Mythology: Retold, players assume the role of a divine leader, guiding their civilization through the intricate interplay of mortals and mythological beings. Unlike the more historically grounded Age of Empires, this game transports players into a world where the boundaries between the mortal and the divine blur. As your empire grows, you wield the power of the gods, summoning lightning bolts, healing auras, and even devastating meteor storms to turn the tide of battle. The ability to enlist the aid of legendary creatures and heroic figures, such as the fearsome hydra, the colossal colossus, and the elite Myrmidons, adds an exhilarating layer of strategic depth and mythological grandeur to the gameplay.

Navigating the Mythological Realms

The campaign of Age of Mythology: Retold takes players on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Greek, Norse, and Egyptian mythologies. From the fall of Troy to the treacherous underworld, the game's narrative seamlessly blends historical events with fantastical elements, offering a truly immersive experience for mythology enthusiasts. The opportunity to guide Arkantos, the Atlantean general, through this odyssey and witness the pivotal moments of these ancient civilizations is a testament to the game's commitment to delivering an authentic and engaging mythological experience.

Adapting to a New Era: Overcoming Challenges

While Age of Mythology: Retold remains true to its roots, the developers have successfully adapted the game for a modern audience. The introduction of varied difficulty settings has made the campaign significantly more conquerable, catering to both seasoned strategy gamers and newcomers to the genre. The transition from the traditional mouse and keyboard controls to gamepad-based gameplay, while initially challenging, has been handled with care, ensuring a playable and enjoyable experience on consoles.

Embracing the Quirks: A Nostalgic Charm

One of the enduring appeals of Age of Mythology: Retold lies in its delightful quirks and idiosyncrasies. The game's occasional frustrations, such as the struggle to identify individual units and buildings on the crowded screen or the occasional navigational challenges, have become part of its nostalgic charm. These quirks, often inherent in older titles, have a way of fostering a sense of camaraderie and perseverance among players, as they work together to overcome the unique obstacles presented by the game.

Reawakening the Mythological Passion

For those who fondly remember the original Age of Mythology, the Retold version serves as a captivating return to the mythological realms they once reveled in. The game's ability to transport players back to their childhood, when they were enthralled by the narratives of ancient gods and heroes, is a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether you're a seasoned strategy enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Age of Mythology: Retold offers a mythological adventure that is both accessible and deeply engaging, inviting you to rediscover the magic of this timeless classic.